2. BTEC ExtendedDiplomainCreativeMediaProduction
Understand the regulation of the media sector
Use this workbook to help you with this learning outcome. There is some guidance
and further notes, which you should read and then remove, replacing it with your
own answers.
Which regulatory body did you research?
ASA- Advertising Standards Authority
What are they in charge of regulating?
They are in charge of self and co-regulation of non-broadcast and broadcast advertising.
Self-regulation of non-broadcast advertising:
Is able to compete with other companies and is able to adapt quickly in the fast-moving
advertising industry.
Independent regulator of advertising across all media.
Co- regulation of broadcast advertising:
The ASA makes sure that the rules are being followed. If, there is a serious issue with the
advert; they can report the problem to Ofcom.
Ofcom would ensure that the advert is following industry’s rules and guidelines.
When was the body set up? Why was it set up?
TV commercials played a huge part in advertising.TV commercials were created in 1955 under
the act of legislation.
In 1961, the Advertising Association discussed with media companies, that
Adverts should be broadcasted effectively and positively.
In 1962, Committee of Advertising Practice (CAP) established ASA as an independent regulator
across all media. The Authority was set up to ensure that the public is following the new
self-regulatory system before broadcasting photos/ads online.
3. BTEC ExtendedDiplomainCreativeMediaProduction
How is this organisation funded? Why is it funded that way?
Are there any benefits or drawbacks to being funded this way?
(considering how the funding might affect impartiality and interference from other bodies
would help you give more detailed, higher level answers here.
The 'About' section of most bodies website is a good place to start)
What powers does the regulatory body have? What can they do if someone breaks their rule
(making references to specific cases could help you create a more detailed answer. Finding specif
How does the industry use it?
(different bodies will require the industry to work with it in different ways. Some require you to subm
to create laws, monitor companies and issue fines where required.)
How can the public use it?
(regulatory bodies often have customer or public facing arm which allows the public to interact with
dispute between a member of the public and the industry. Find some specific details about how the
What kinds of regulatory issues does your body deal with the most?
(some bodies are set up to look at competition, consumer choice and services standards. Others a
are most concerned with.)
Case Studies:
4. BTEC ExtendedDiplomainCreativeMediaProduction
Find a case study which demonstrates the regulatory body working in practice.
(you should explain the issue they were working on and how it was drawn to their attention. You sh
very up to date list of the cases they have worked on.)
Find a second case study which demonstrates the regulatory body working in practice.
(you should explain the issue they were working on and how it was drawn to their attention. You sh
very up to date list of the cases they have worked on.)
Regulation:
You should answer the following questions using the information you have gained so far in the unit
Should there be regulation of the media?
Should regulators be independent?
Extension tasks
Answer just one of the following questions with a long form answer using specific examples to help
5. BTEC ExtendedDiplomainCreativeMediaProduction
Why do we allow regulatory bodies to censor media products like films and video games?
or
Is it important to regulate adverts?
or
Is people’s privacy or freedom of information more important?
