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SESSION A1: TRAINER'S NOTES.
 
HANG OUT YOUR DIRTY LINEN.
(An introduction to sociological analysis.)
 
Objectives:
·•An introduction to how we all use the media.
·•To inform our community radio productions.
 
USES AND GRATIFICATIONS.
Generally analysis of the media concentrates on how the media use us to deliver certain messages. However, sociology also looks at the ways people use the media, and the gratification media offer to people. This approach can shed some light on why some television programmes, movies and other media products are so popular, as well as the roles they might play in society.

Break the group into at least two sub-groups; give each an exercise sheet and the material below. Each group will make a clothesline (with materials supplied: paper, wool, blue tack, markers) of the main uses the members of their group make of the media.
For example:
•To find role models, through which we gain a sense of identity, to learn how to cope in certain situations and how to be more socially acceptable.
•To be informed about serious economic and political issues. To have an informed opinion for use in social situations.
•To see authority figures ridiculed, and to see other make mistakes.
•To vicariously experience villains and law enforcers in conflict. To see justice done and virtue rewarded. To feel that we inhabit a moral universe.
•To affirm spiritual and cultural values. To find evidence that in general, the world is a good place.
 
How to organise the group.

1: One member of group reads out the list supplied, other members respond when they can relate to an item. Each member should try to contribute at least two uses. Try to add a particular movie or TV. series that gave you this gratification. Again, be honest, if you received some salacious gratification. The workshop could probably do with some excitement about now.

2: These uses are written up on sheets of paper, and secured to the clothesline (this is the equivalent of hanging out your dirty linen.) and when the time comes, one member of the group will present the groups findings. There is no need to identify individuals. Mention if there are differences on any one item, as the uses to which people put the media are somewhat ambiguous.

3: Also, if you have time, consider the notion that, if the media do a great deal for us, what are they doing to us?

The second group will present their clothesline in similar fashion.
 
There are many more uses, see how many others the groups can come up with once motivated.

A handout will be distributed covering these above subjects. 
Alternative: This topic can also be handled successfully in a brainstorming session.                                  
 
Materials:
 
Bundle of blank A.4 paper, wool or string, blue tack, markers and Checklist of uses.

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