"Worship at the Altar of Convergence"

1. Why does convergence happen in the communication and media fields? What are the two conditions that lead to convergence?

Convergence happens in the communications and media fields because news can be spread through multiple media platforms. Constantly developing technology, such as social networks, can be used for communication and the spreading of ideas, entertainment, information, etc.

The circulation of media across different media systems and the active participation of consumers lead to convergence.

2. What are the three different kinds of digital convergence discussed in the article?

Video game convergence, telecommunications, and TV & film convergence are discussed in this article.

3. What cultural and social impacts does digital convergence have in addition to technological changes?

Through digital convergence, every important story is told, every brand gets sold, and every consumer gets courted across multiple media platforms. The public is kept up to date with all important issues through different forms of media.

4. Do the new media displace old media in the history of media development? Why or why not?

No. Older media keep up with evolving technology and are still relevant and still used by many.

5. The convergence happens from both the top-down corporate level and bottom-up grassroots level. How do both levels change the traditional concept of media consumption?

The top-down corporate level can promote any products, events, etc. quickly and through different outlets. The bottom-up grassroots level can spread awareness of any ideas and organizations, or even form communities with people around the world by using the same means of media. Compared to the traditional concept of media consumption, current technology can help promote or spread awareness more conveniently on a wider scale.

6. What does digital convergence in media indicate for communication and journalism professionals in the future?

Communication and journalism are changing for the better. Different media help people stay in touch with one another more efficiently. Social networks, text messages are becoming the go-to forms of media for interpersonal communication. As for journalism, news is easily accessible and available on many platforms. Journalists are able to report news quicker and more efficiently. News is more likely to break on social media before an actual news broadcast.