What is factual media?

Factual media is media that is based in non-fiction, actual people and events. It can be used to educate and inform and provide facts, such as the news and documentaries. It can also be used to entertain through reality tv, chat shows and makeover shows. Documentaries usually centre around nature and wildlife, but can also be about history, science or culture. Factual media dates back to 1922 which is when the first documentary was made: 'Nanook of The North' by Robert Flaherty. Factual media has only recently been recognised as its own genre and has appeared as a category since the 1990s at the British Academy Awards. Other examples of factual media are: News, Documentaries e.g Docusoaps or Docudramas, Infotainment, Reality TV, Wildlife, Special interest, Makeover Shows, Magazines, Newspapers, Employee Training Videos and Chat Shows.

We have factual media as a result of people needing or wanting to know about the world around them. It informs us on important issues and keeps us in the loop about the events of the outside world. It also expands our knowledge of other cultures and promotes acceptance and diversity.

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