RADIO

Compared to TV, radio has some advantages:

• You can listen anywhere (in your car, at work, or at home)
• It is free

Most of us switch on the radio immediately after waking up to hear:

• The time signal
• Morning news
• Press opinions
• Weather forecasts
• Music

Radio also informs about accidents on the roads, traffic jams, tailbacks, diversions, and speed radars.

There are many radio stations in Slovakia. They can be divided into two groups:

• State / Non-commercial: Slovensko, Devín, Regina
• Private / Commercial: Fun Radio, Radio Europa, Radio Express

QUIZ TIME 3

1. What are the main advantages of radio compared to TV?
2. When do most people switch on the radio and why?
3. Name at least three things people can hear on the radio in the morning.
4. How are radio stations divided in Slovakia? Give examples of state and private
   stations.

THE INTERNET

The Internet has changed the way we study, work, have fun, and communicate.

• We do not need encyclopaedias or dictionaries to find information.
• It is an international network of computers.

Functions of the Internet:

• Informative – we can find news and information quickly
• Educational – we can learn and study online
• Entertaining – we can watch videos, play games, or listen to music

News is updated all day. Almost every user has their own email, and we can send messages, chat, or communicate in real time. The Internet is used for both work and fun.

History:

1. The Internet began for military purposes
2. It started in 1969
3. In the 1980s, it was called the “Internet”

Pros / Advantages of the Internet:

• Fast and convenient – immediate access to current information; everything is available online
• Distance learning – especially useful during the pandemic
• Unlimited communication – constant contact with people via social networking sites
  such as Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter
• It can serve as both TV and radio

Online services users can use:

• Online shopping – cheaper and more convenient than shopping in physical stores
• Booking services – hotels, plane tickets, concert tickets, holidays, etc.
• Money transfer / Internet banking – manage finances easily
• Information – download all sorts of information
• Communication – send documents and use email
• News – read newspapers online
• Social / Dating – find a life partner

Disadvantages of the Internet:

• Unreliable information – fake news / hoaxes; not all sources are trustworthy
• Computer viruses – can harm your computer
• Internet safety risks – personal and financial information may be stolen
• Social isolation – spending too much time online can reduce communication with
  family and friends; it prevents face-to-face interaction
• Internet addiction – too much screen time can cause problems with eyesight and the
  spine
• Bad habits – such as eating in front of the computer
• Violence online / cyberbullying
• Pseudo-idols – fake idols or unrealistic role models

Ján Kuciak was an investigative journalist from Slovakia. He wrote reports about corruption,
fraud, and connections between politicians and businesses. Ján Kuciak and his girlfriend Martina Kušnírová were killed for his work in 2018. His work showed the important role of mass media in informing the public and helping society stay honest.

QUIZ TIME 4

1. What are the main functions of the Internet and its uses?
2. Give three examples of online services that people can use via the Internet.
3. What are the main disadvantages or dangers of the Internet?
4. When did the Internet begin and what was its original purpose?
5. Who was Ján Kuciak and what did he investigate?
6. Why were Ján Kuciak and his fiancée killed?
7. What does his work show about the role of mass media in society?