Web Radio:A Manual for Streaming Audio on the Web

Abstract

Community Radio (CR) stations are short range FM radio stations that cater to the information needs of communities living in surrounding areas. These stations are typically setup and operated by non profit organizations or the local communities themselves. They usually air programs centered around discussions on local civic amenities, health and hygiene, advice on common economic activities such as agriculture, and even local folk songs and cultural events. One of the most important philosophies behind the concept of Community Radio is community participation. This means that community around the station participate not only in program production, but also in station management, station policy making, marketing, and other daily tasks. The participatory philosophy of CR stations, and the use of voice as the communication medium, makes CR an attractive tool for socio-economic development for rural population. Community Radio is not perceived as a simple tool to reach out to rural population but as a platform for self-expression for the marginalized and a tool for their empowerment. It is often referred to as the voice of the voiceless and a tool to make consumers of media as producers.