Islamic Media Satellite Channels... Appeasement or fragmentation
Hatem Al Alawneh, Department of Journalism, Faculty of Mass Communication, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan.
Ezzat Hijab, Department of Radio and Television, Faculty of Mass Communication, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan.
Abstract
The study aims at drawing attention to the role Islamic Media saelite Channels play in either bridging the gaps of understanding or further its fragmentation from the viewpoint of syndicates members in the province of Irbid. It further sheds light on the magnitude and scope of exposure that such media outlets constitute and the incentives behind their follower's loyalty and the needs it feeds.
Considered a first initiative of its kind, a survey method using a questionnaire was employed to collect the data. A total sample of 376 syndicates represent the seven unions that constitute Irbid province's Union/Syndicates.
Results came out to prove that the majority of the study's subjects receive constant exposure to Islamic media outlets and that they are represented by those who are registered affiliates in various Islamic movements.
The study further shows that the majority of syndicates expressed satisfaction for the topics and programs presented by such outlets and that their level of credibility proved to be one of a high level, peaking to around 92.7% of the syndicates' confidence.
Results confirmed that syndicates members see Islamic Media outlets, through their popular support, as contributing to Islamic issues, bridging the gaps among them, as well as portraying a positive image about Islam and Muslims in general.