Posts Tagged ‘Formats’

What is a radio documentary? Radio documentaries come in many different forms, but the best radio documentaries all have one thing in common: they are reports from the field that tell the story of a person or people who encounter a problem and overcome it. A radio documentary is not an extended newscast or a…

A call-in is a radio format that gives many listeners an opportunity to comment live on a topic of interest. A call-in can be one segment within a radio program, or it can be a radio program on its own. “Phone-in” is often used in place of “call-in.” The two terms mean the same thing.

Radio spots are short (usually 15-60 second) radio pieces that deliver one single, clear message. They can be presented in various formats, but two of the most common are straightforward announcements—also called Public Service Announcements or PSAs—and short dramas.

What makes an audio file a podcast is complicated because there are many types of podcast. The ultimate power of this highly flexible format lies in the sheer variety of possible podcasts. Listeners can find exactly what they want. Producers can use whatever style they choose.

A radio quiz can be very entertaining, and is a great way to encourage audience participation. Quizzes are also one way to evaluate the effectiveness of your radio program at clearly delivering key messages to your listeners.

Forum theatre is a different approach to radio drama, one that actively involves the audience. It is a fun, safe, and open way to share ideas and collaborate on solutions to challenges in rural life, including agriculture, health, and other issues.

A mini-doc is a story with action and emotion, and it engages the listener in a way that straight facts and information can’t. A mini-doc takes the listener to a place they can mentally visualize. When people can “see” a place or a person in a story, they will listen more intently.

A tape talk is part live interview and part recorded voice and sound. The host interviews a reporter and, as part of his or her answers to the host’s questions, the reporter uses audio clips to help tell the story.

Radio programs on markets provide real-time information about markets and link farmers with other market players. They provide a service to farmers that can increase their market opportunities and income.