This panel will investigate historic and contemporary uses of social media by noncommercial broadcasters, and examine how social media technologies and channels are re-shaping the goals and objectives of public media organizations. The panelists will consider whether the integration of social media into public media represents an enhancement of localism and service to citizens, or a diversion from public broadcasting's historic mission to promote democracy and foster understanding across diverse audiences.
Moderator: Robert K. Avery, University of Utah
Panelist: Michael Marcotte, University of Nevada, Reno; A window on change: Emerging attributes of local NPR newsrooms
Philip A. Thompsen, West Chester University; CWEIS plus 20: Reflections on one of public broadcasting's first forays into social media
Glenda R. Balas, University of New Mexico; Public TV and social media: Negotiating institutional identity and new technologies
Michael W. Huntsberger, Linfield College; That's What We Do: Community media on social platforms
Respondent: Alan G. Stavitsky, University of Nevada, Reno