Preliminary Task

Michelle Foster

For my coursework, I decided to create a radio project because I thought it would be a fun, creative way to display various radio techniques. I began my coursework by completing the preliminary exercise; to include an introductory jingle for a radio show with a presenter introducing and greeting their guest. The preliminary exercise was an ideal way to initiate myself with the computer programs needed for the main assignment, Adobe Premiere and Audacity. During the preliminary exercise, I demonstrated understanding of sound editing and mixing, and conventions of radio.

Strengths

• This task was effective because it follows the outline closely and demonstrates an understanding of using Premiere. I successfully welcomed the show and introduced my guest. I played a relevant song associated to my guest and the guest responded.
• The preliminary task shows techniques in fading in and out of the beginning jingle. I chose to use this technique so the presenter can project her voice, with the music still playing quietly in the background.
• The overall broadcast highlights the upbeat, joyful tempo of regular radio shows. This reflects in the presenters cheery persona. I think this works well because typical radio shows are cheesy, particularly morning broadcasts.

Weaknesses

• The task could have been improved by being more continuous during the 'laughing' sound effect. The effect is a bit disjointed and doesn't flow with the presenters speech. Regular radio shows are fluent and continuous.
• The broadcast would have benefitted from more detail. The information provided is limited. I think this is a weakness because, although listeners don't want to be bombarded with speech, the task seems restricted to a short, vague clip of introductory talk.
• The exercise shows little techniques in using effects. Typical conventions of a radio include more varied methods and context. The preliminary task should have been expanded so I could use a range of techniques and more sound effects.

I will aim to make sure my main broadcast is relevant, fluent, upbeat and technical, without being too serious. As it is a news bulletin, I will use recorded interviews and a vox pop to make my show more realistic. I will continue my project with research into existing radio shows and discuss the ideas for my show.