PBS unveils MediaShift

PBS, in a news release published today, unveils a new blog called MediaShift, which will explore how new forms of digital media are dramatically changing American society and culture.

MediaShift debuts Jan. 18 at http://www.pbs.org/mediashift.

Hosted by industry expert and longtime new media commentator Mark Glaser, MediaShift will offer a continuing look at how digital media such as blogs, RSS, podcasts, citizen journalism, wikis, news aggregators and video repositories are altering the way we live, play and work. The site will provide a window into this world for the average user while offering enough details to satisfy the more technically savvy, and will offer ongoing opportunities for active public participation and feedback.

MediaShift Features:

Blog
In-depth blog posts will include rotating features, such as: Q&A’s with industry leaders, commentaries and substantive reporting on recent developments.
“The blog will be a lively read, entertaining and enthusiastic about new
developments in the media landscape — with a healthy dose of skepticism
reserved for overly hyped initiatives with little substance,” said Glaser.

Your Take
Each week, a different contention or question will be posed to MediaShift’s readers, who will be invited to add their views or share relevant information. One example might be: “Do you trust Google News to be fair and accurate?” The question would also be posed to people with a vested interest in and/or particular knowledge of the subject, including people at news outlets, analysts and executives, and news consumers.

Top 5 Chart
This chart will list top companies, people and ideas that are gaining momentum or buzz in the new media world, including new initiatives or breakthrough services.

MediaShift Reading List
A running list of the best media-related books, blogs, sites and research reports, updated regularly.

About PBS
PBS is a private, nonprofit media enterprise that serves the nation’s 348 public noncommercial television stations, reaching nearly 90 million people each week through on-air and online content. Bringing diverse viewpoints to television and the Internet, PBS provides high-quality documentary and dramatic entertainment, and consistently dominates the most prestigious award competitions. PBS is the leading provider of educational materials for K-12 teachers, and offers a broad array of educational services for adult learners. PBS’ premier kids’ TV programming and Web site, PBS KIDS Online  pbskids.org), continue to be parents’ and teachers’ most trusted learning environments for children. More information about PBS is available at pbs.org, one of the leading dot-org Web sites on the Internet. PBS is headquartered in Alexandria, Virginia.