Technology and media products — AQA GCSE Media Studies
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Technology and media products explained
Teach the underlying forces driving technological change in the media industry.
Read the full explanation
Economic forces are primary, as media conglomerates seek to maximise profit by developing cheaper distribution methods, like streaming platforms. Consumer demand also drives change; audiences expect higher resolution, faster access, and interactivity, pushing companies to innovate. Additionally, competition between hardware manufacturers, such as rival gaming consoles, accelerates technological advancements. Regulatory and social forces can also play a role, such as the need for accessible design features.
Your focus
- Identify the economic forces that drive media companies to develop new technologies.
- Explain how consumer expectations influence technological innovation in media.
- Recognise the impact of market competition on the pace of technological change.
Technology and media products exam tips
Marking Points
- Identifies economic profit as a primary driver for technological change in media.
- Explains how consumer demand for convenience and quality forces companies to innovate.
- Recognises the role of market competition in accelerating technological advancements.
- Identifies how the need for global distribution drives the development of digital infrastructure.
Examiner Tips
- 💡When answering multiple-choice questions, look for options that link technological change to economic motives or audience demand.
- 💡Remember that media conglomerates invest in new technology primarily to reduce costs or increase revenue.
- 💡Consider how the shift to mobile consumption was driven by the audience's desire for media on the go.
Common Mistakes
- Believing technology advances independently of human or corporate intention; correction: recognise that technological change is driven by specific economic and social forces.
- Overlooking the role of competition; correction: acknowledge that rival companies innovate to gain market share.
- Ignoring consumer demand; correction: explain that audiences actively desire faster, higher-quality, and more interactive media experiences.