WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A FREE MEDIA IN DEMOCRACY? 32 REFLECT ON YOUR LEARNING UNDERSTAND
1. Give three examples of the types of media that can have an impact on democracy. 2. How can a free media hold those in power to account for their decisions? 3. What is fact-checking? 4. Name one positive contribution social media makes to democracy. 5. Name one way in which owners of media could threaten democracy.
6. What options does someone have if they feel they have been defamed in the traditional media?
7. Explain the role of: (a) The Press Council of Ireland (b) The Broadcasting Authority of Ireland
8. What do you understand the term ‘fake news’ to mean?
DISCUSS
Have a short discussion (5–10 minutes) in pairs or groups on whether you feel the Irish media performs an important role in our democracy.
Listen to each other carefully and note down any good points that you had not considered.
Report back to your teacher and the class on what you discussed and whether you mostly agreed or disagreed, stating why.
RESPONSE JOURNAL
REFLECT Visit page 129 of your Response Journal to complete your end-of-topic reflection and see how your knowledge has developed.
