Public Broadcasting

1. Public Broadcasting

2. Non-Commercial Broadcasting • Almost from the beginning, channels have been reserved for non-commercial use. • In FM radio, frequencies from 88 to 92 MHz were reserved for non-commercial use. • Initially, those channels were almost all used by educational institutions.

3. Non-Commercial Broadcasting • In 1952, the FCC’s Sixth Report and Order reserved over 200 channels for “educational television.”

4. Non-Commercial Broadcasting • There is a conceptual difference between “educational” programming and “instructional” programming. • Educational programs are aimed at more generalized audiences and are often entertaining • Instructional programs are intended for classroom use, and are aimed at developing certain skills or competencies

5. Structure of Public Broadcasting • The Public Broadcasting Act of 1967 • Created the Corporation for Public Broadcasting • CPB is a “quasi-governmental” agency • CPB is a funding agency

6. Non-Commercial Broadcasting • The Corporation for Public Broadcasting launched the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in 1969-1970 • PBS is a program distributor – but not producer • Member stations (affiliates) produce programs which are distributed to other members

7. Non-Commercial Broadcasting • National Public Radio (NPR) is the radio equivalent of PBS. • NPR distributes programming from members and other sources. • NPR does produce programming.

8. Non-Commercial Broadcasting • Public broadcast licensees • State and municipalities (40%) • Colleges and universities (25%) • Public School Boards (3%) • Community Foundations (33%)

9. Funding • ALWAYS a problem for public broadcasters • Government support continues to dwindle, as it has for nearly 40 years. • Reliance on foundations and underwriting • Underwriting has grown to more closely resemble commercial sponsorship