Mock DIRT 4 - 6.

Describe what is meant by 'Public Service Broadcasting' (PSB). Use the BBC as an example in your answer.

Public Service Broadcasting is when a broadcaster releases entertainment for the benefit of the public rather than themselves. This means that they rely on the public for their funding rather than from regulators such as OFCOM. As a result of this they get their own funding from public voting, advertisements, selling merchandise. The broadcasters would create their media with the public's interest at heart but wouldn't have to follow the restrictions of any regulators such as OFCOM. Public Broadcasters also provide coverage for interests which have very little or no market. They also supply topics that are of social benefit, not commonly provided by commercial broadcasters.

The Avengers

Explain how social contexts influence television programmes. Refer to The Avengers from 1965 to support your answer.

The BBC being a PSB meant that the creation of The Avengers was entirely out of the public's benefit. It meant that they created the show for the public, and while the target audience of the BBC was the working class, the characters in the show were classy, posh spies. This is due to the constant fear of the Russian/German spies of the time, therefore showing the social contexts influence the television programs of the time. Furthermore art was also coming into light and is shown also in 'The Town of No Return' at the start with the giant eye on top of Ms Peel's door, a direct reference to pop art culture.