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Tips Menulis Latar Belakang Skripsi yang Ternyata Tidak Sulit

Tips Menulis Latar Belakang Skripsi yang Ternyata Tidak Sulit

Langkah awal dalam memulai skripsi atau tugas akhir adalah menulis latar belakang penelitian. Namun, babak ini ternyata relatif menyita banyak waktu. Keluhan utama tentu adalah kebingungan apa yang akan dituliskan dalam latar belakang. Lantas bagaimana menulis latar belakang skripsi?

Latar belakang penelitian merupakan bagian awal yang menjelaskan dua hal pokok yakni alasan dan konteks penelitian. Tujuan dari penulisan latar belakang yakni memperkenalkan topik, mengidentifikasi dan menjawab masalah, hingga urgensi penelitian terhadap ilmu pengetahuan dan praktik.

Jika ingin menulis latar belakang tanpa hambatan pastikan anda memahami dengan kuat beberapa hal, antara lain topik, kata kunci, penelitian-penelitian terdahulu, serta kontribusi penelitian yang membentuk lanskap penelitian saat ini.

Pentingnya menulis latar belakang dengan kualitas baik, selain meningkatkan kualitas analisis dan temuan penelitian secara menyeluruh, juga menentukan pembaca atau dosen penguji tertarik membaca lebih dalam riset yang direncanakan.

Cara Menulis Latar Belakang dengan Efektif

Melansir dari laman researcher life, beberapa hal yang perlu diperhatikan agar proses penulisan latar belakang berjalan lancar adalah sebagai berikut:

  1. Buat pernyataan terkait tujuan yang berdampak

Proses pencarian topik penelitian harus didasari dengan tujuan dan sasaran spesifik yang ingin dicapai oleh peneliti. Sementara tujuan penelitian harus memeiliki keterkaitan yang kuat dengan rumusan masalah.

  1. Membaca dan menambahkan literatur

Demi memudahkan penulisan, buatlah ringkasan literatur atau referensi yang relevan dengan bidang penelitian. Catat beberapa kata kunci sehingga mudah menemudahkan untuk mencari referensi yang lebih akurat. Pastikan sumber kredibel.

  1. Menjelaskan kontroversi

Tidak jarang topik penelitian yang dipilih memiliki berbagai latar kontroversi. Misalnya topik penelitian melibatkan isu yang banyak dibahas karena pertimbangan etis atau politik. Jika sedang mengalami kondisi tersebut, sebaiknya tetap terbuka dan tetap membahasnya pada latar belakang secara objektif.

  1. Menulis relevansi studi

Setiap mahasiswa tentu ingin topik penelitiannya diterima oleh dosen pembimbing. Berikan penjelasan sedetail mungkin mengapa topik yang diajukan penting dan kontribusi apa yang akan anda berikan terhadap ilmu pengetahuan. Hal yang tak boleh luput adalah menjelaskan istilah dan ide yang terdengar asing menjadi lebih sederhana agar mudah dipahami publik.

  1. Menyusun kalimat dengan dengan struktur yang tepat

Setelah draft di atas selesai, mulai menulis dengan bahasa dan struktur yang tepat. Ibarat menjahit, tata bahasa perlu diperiksa agar latar belakang yang disusun menjadi informasi yang akurat. Lakukan proof read berulang.

Itulah beberapa tips yang bisa memudahkan mahasiswa dalam menulis latar belakang skripsi. Selamat mencoba Comms.

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The Rise of Digital Intimacy: How Online Reactions Shape Modern Relationships

The Rise of Digital Intimacy: How Online Reactions Shape Modern Relationships

In today’s fast-paced digital world, intimacy no longer depends solely on face-to-face conversations or physical closeness. Instead, people now experience and express connection through screens which is a concept known as digital intimacy. Whether it’s liking a photo, replying to a story, or sending an emoji reaction, these small online gestures often carry deep emotional meaning. With the rise of social media platforms like Instagram, WhatsApp, and TikTok, digital intimacy is shaping how people form and maintain relationships in everyday life.

Digital intimacy refers to the closeness and emotional connection people build and feel through digital platforms. Unlike traditional intimacy, which often requires physical presence, digital intimacy can happen instantly across distances. Friends, couples, and even strangers can exchange support, affection, or humor through messages, comments, and reactions. Communication in this context becomes short, fast, and emotionally loaded even a heart emoji or a laughing response can create a sense of being seen, valued, and emotionally connected.

Communication Characteristics and Behavior

The communication in digital intimacy is often asynchronous, visual, and symbolic. People may not speak in full sentences but use images, GIFs, emojis, and voice notes to convey feelings. This non-verbal communication is quick, easy to understand, and emotionally expressive.

Behaviors often seen in digital intimacy include:

  • Regular interaction (likes, replies, shares)
  • Private messages after public engagement (like replying to a story)
  • Sending voice notes or videos to share moments
  • Checking each other’s online presence or last seen

These behaviors reflect a growing comfort in building emotional closeness without physical interaction.

Fast Reactions and Their Role in Building Intimacy

One of the most effective tools in digital intimacy today is the fast reaction feature, like emoji responses to Instagram Stories. These instant reactions allow users to express feelings within seconds, without needing to type a message. This low-effort but high-impact communication makes it easier to maintain consistent contact.

For example:

  • A quick heart-eye emoji on someone’s selfie communicates admiration or affection.
  • A fire emoji can signal excitement or praise.
  • Even a laughing emoji can strengthen a bond by showing shared humor.

These reactions, though simple, often maintain an emotional presence that lets others know “I’m here, I see you, I care,” without needing deep conversations every time.

Digital intimacy has transformed how people experience closeness in the modern world. Through fast, emotionally charged interactions — especially reactions like emojis — people stay connected in ways that feel personal and meaningful. While it may not replace traditional intimacy, digital intimacy offers a new layer of connection that fits the rhythm of digital life. As technology continues to evolve, so will the ways we express love, care, and friendship — often, one tap at a time.

References

Baym. (2015). Personal connections in the digital age. williamwolff. https://williamwolff.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/baym-ch1-2015.pdf

Daantje Derks Agneta H Fischer Arjan E R Bos. (2008, may 04). The role of emotion in computer-mediated communication: A review. ResearchGate. file:///Users/sekprodikomip/Downloads/The_role_of_emotion_in_computer-mediated_communica.pdf

Social networking sites and our lives. (2011, June 16). Internet & Technology. Retrieved July 7, 2025, from https://www.pewinternet.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/9/media/Files/Reports/2011/PIP-Social-networking-sites-and-our-lives.pdf

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Nickel Mining in Raja Ampat: A Communication Science Perspective

Nickel Mining in Raja Ampat: A Communication Science Perspective

Raja Ampat, located in Papua, Indonesia, is one of the planet’s richest areas for marine biodiversity. Its beautiful beaches, colorful corals, and deep-rooted local traditions have made it a destination for tourism and conservation. Yet, this area is now at the center of a growing controversy over nickel mining. The Indonesian government promotes nickel mining for its economic benefits and “downstreaming” policies (increasing domestic processing), but local communities and NGOs worry about its environmental and cultural impacts. In this article, we will explore this issue through the lens of three communication theories, which are the framing theory, agenda-setting theory, and uses and gratifications theory, to understand how media and communication can shape perceptions and policies.

Nickel Mining and Its Impact in Raja Ampat

Nickel is an essential mineral used in batteries, electronics, and stainless steel. Its demand has surged with the global shift towards electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. The Indonesian government supports mining and processing nickel domestically (downstreaming), citing economic growth and national interests. However, in Raja Ampat, this has caused tension between economic interests and environmental and cultural heritage. Local communities and NGOs have protested, fearing that mining will damage delicate marine ecosystems and disrupt traditional ways of life.

Framing Theory: How Media Shapes the Debate

Framing theory explains how media and communication shape public understanding by highlighting certain angles and downplaying others. In the Raja Ampat debate, national media often frames nickel mining as an economic necessity, focusing on jobs and revenue generation. Meanwhile, NGOs and local media frame it as an environmental threat and a risk to cultural heritage. Framing affects how people understand the issue—those who are exposed to economic framing tend to accept mining policies, while those exposed to environmental framing oppose it.

Agenda-Setting Theory: Influencing What People Care About

Agenda-setting theory argues that the media doesn’t tell people what to think, but what to think about. In the Raja Ampat context, mainstream media often gives more space to government statements about the benefits of nickel mining, making it a priority issue in the public’s mind. Meanwhile, stories about environmental damage or the voices of indigenous communities receive less attention, causing the public to undervalue these perspectives. Understanding this theory highlights the need for balanced media coverage that includes all stakeholders.

Uses and Gratifications Theory: Understanding Stakeholder Media Usage

Uses and gratifications theory focuses on why people use media and what they gain from it. In the Raja Ampat mining debate, different groups use media for different ends:

  • Governments and companies use the media to justify policies and build legitimacy.
  • Local communities and NGOs use media platforms (such as social media) to raise awareness, mobilize support, and voice their concerns.
  • The general public chooses media that confirms their interests, making media literacy vital for understanding the complexities of the issue.

The Role of Communication Science

Communication science can help address the Raja Ampat issue by:

  • Helping stakeholders understand how media framing influences public perceptions.
  • Guiding journalists to cover both economic and environmental angles, ensuring balanced agenda setting.
  • Helping NGOs and communities design media campaigns that resonate with wider audiences, making their concerns harder to ignore.
  • Fostering dialogue between government, businesses, and communities, creating spaces for inclusive conversation.

The nickel mining issue in Raja Ampat is a reminder that economic policies must be balanced with environmental and social priorities. By applying communication theories like framing, agenda setting, and uses and gratifications, we can better understand how media influences perceptions and public debate. This understanding can ultimately help create a more inclusive, transparent, and sustainable approach to resource management that respects both the land and its people.

References

Denty Piawai Nastitie. (2025, june 13). National Human Rights Commission: Nickel Mining in Raja Ampat Violates Public Rights to a Healthy Environment. kompas.id. https://www.kompas.id/artikel/en-komnas-ham-tambang-nikel-di-raja-ampat-langgar-hak-publik-atas-lingkungan-hidup-yang-sehat

Tambang di Raja Ampat Berpotensi Konflik Sumber Daya Alam. (2025, June 18). Komnas HAM. Retrieved June 30, 2025, from https://www.komnasham.go.id/komnas-ham-tambang-di-raja-ampat-berpotensi-konflik-sumber-daya-alam

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Wajah Baru Jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi UII: Launching FISB dan FP

Wajah Baru Jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi UII: Launching FISB dan FP

Pengembangan organisasi terus dilakukan di Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII). Tepat di hari Rabu, 2 Juli 2025 secara resmi Fakultas Psikologi dan Ilmu Sosial Budaya (FPSB) berkembang menjadi dua lembaga. Hal ini diresmikan dalam tajuk Launching Fakultas Psikologi dan Fakultas Ilmu Sosial Budaya.

Suasana haru penuh kehangatan begitu terasa, satu keluarga FPSB kini ingin bertumbuh dan berkembang semakin kuat dalam nama baru Fakultas Psikologi (FP) dan Fakultas Ilmu Sosial Budaya (FISB).

Tak hanya jajaran pengurus, mahasiswa dari dua fakultas menyambut dengan suka cita momen bersejarah di Auditorium Kahar Mudzakir.

Dekan FISB, Prof. Dr. rer. soc. Masduki, S.Ag., M.Si., M.A. menjelaskan bagaimana momen peluncuran tersebut akan menjadi sejarah nantinya. Secara administrasi terbentuknya dua fakultas tercatat pada 1 Juni 2025, lalu diluncurkan pada 2 Juli 2025.

“Hari ini peluncuran, bulan lalu pelantikan. Saya merujuk filsuf Prancis tentang eksistensi, aku ada SK maka aku ada. 1 Juni kelahiran eksistensi prosedural, lalu ada esksistensi secara substansi menurut saya hari ini,” jelasnya.

Pengembangan menjadi dua fakultas harapannya mampu memberi kontribusi yang lebih bermakna sesuai dengan tiga mantra UII yakni universitas sebagai rumah produksi pengetahuan. Kedua, Islam sebagai value dan kajian. Ketiga, Indonesia lokus atau local genius.

“Ilmu Sosial adalah lintas disiplin, visinya investasi pengetahuan karena tugas perguruan tinggi adal civil engagement,” tambahnya.

Senada dengan Prof. Masduki, Dekan Fakultas Psikologi menekankan bahwa pengembangan ini akan membawa masa depan yang lebih cemerlang.

“Sarana layanan umat kontribusi nyata, membawa keberkahan menuju masa depan yang cemerlang,” tambah Dr. Phil. Qurotul Uyun, S.Psi., M.Si., Psikolog.

Analogi dari Rektor UII, Prof. Fathul Wahid menjadi ungkapan yang begitu mewakili, disebutnya tumbuhnya FP dan FISB ibarat penyangkokan. FPSB yang berakar kuat dikembangkan, dan tumbuh bersama-sama.

“Saya memilih ini sebagai penyangkokan. Ini sudah berakar, dipotong kemudian ditanam. Harapannya dua-duanyanya membesar,” jelasnya.

“Kita berharap pemekaran ini menjadi ruang tumbuh baru bagi gak Fakultas Psikologi dan FISB. Tak betul-betul berpisah, tapi pembagian peran. Perpisahan ini dianggap Sebagai peran kolaborasi. Lintas riset disiplin, bagaimana membangun diskusi, kolaborasi antar disiplin,” tandasnya.

Dalam kesempatan itu, Rektor UII menegaskan untuk terus mengingat garis besar dan jalan perjuangan. Bahwa kampus atau universitas adalah rumah inteletual yang memiliki tanggung jawab untuk menyampaikan kebenaran melalui berbagai cara salah satunya pengembangan science. Selanjutnya tentang menyampaikan kebenaran, yakni melalui penyampaian narasi tandingan untuk mengungkap kebohongan pada publik.

Dengan pengembangan dua fakultas, kini FISB terdiri dari Jurusan Sarjana Ilmu Komunikasi, Magister Ilmu Komunikasi, Hubungan Internasional, dan Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris. Sementara pada FP terdiri dari Sarjana Psikologi, Magister Psikologi, dan Profesi Psikologi.

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Cerita Alumni Ilmu Komunikasi UII: Kerja Sesuai Passion hingga Liputan Sepak Bola ke Luar Negeri

Cerita Alumni Ilmu Komunikasi UII Kerja Sesuai Passion hingga Liputan Sepak Bola ke Luar Negeri

Bekerja sesuai passion diyakini akan membawa kenyamanan, antusias, hingga dedikasi yang tinggi pada bidang yang digelutinya. Cerita inspiratif ini datang dari Mozaik Al Isamer, alumni Jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi UII angkatan 2013. Kecintaanya pada penulisan dan olahraga membawanya bergelut pada pekerjaan di bidang digital.

Salah satu kalimat magis yang membuka jalan lebar peluang kariernya ia bagikan dalam sesi wawancara. “Salah satu dosen pernah bilang bahwa lulusan Ilmu Komunikasi harus bisa dua dari tiga hal yakni ngomong (good communication), menulis, dan mengoperasikan alat,” ujarnya membuka sesi wawancara.

Dari pengakuan Ojik sapaan akrabnya, profesi yang dilakoninya cenderung saling berkaitan dari mulai magang hingga terjun ke dunia profesional. Baginya passion sangat penting, bahkan dengan passion ia berkesempatan untuk meliput berbagai pertandingan sepak bola hingga mancanegara.

Penasaran dengan cerita Ojik, simak wawancara berikut:

  • Pekerjaan apa yang kini digeluti, dan mengapa memilih pekerjaan tersebut?

Saya bekerja di bidang digital lebih tepatnya media olahraga. Dulu saat kuliah salah satu dosen pernah bilang bahwa lulusan Ilmu Komunikasi harus bisa dua dari tiga hal. Yang pertama ngomong, menulis, dan mengoperasikan alat. Nah ketika mengoperasikan alat devicenya agak mahal, jadi yang saya tajamkan menulis dan ngomong. Kebetulan saya suka sepak bola, setelah dikorelasikan ketemu bahawa saya suka sepak bola, bisa ngomong, dan nulis yang cocok kerja di media. Itulah kenapa saya memilih pekerjaan ini.

  • Awal mula menggeluti bidang media, apakah ada pengalaman saat kuliah?

Pertama kali magang dari promotion staff di Radio Swaragama FM Jogja, lalu lulus menjadi creative writer salah satu media online, selanjutnya pindah ke federasi bola PSSI, dan sekarang di Sport77.

  • Bagaimana awal membangun Sport77, artinya media ini dirintis dari nol?

Dari relasi teman di pekerjaan sebelumnya ada tawaran untuk membangun bersama, dibangun pada tahun 2021 mulai visi hingga roadmap. Lalu membentuk tim dan terbentuklah sport77. Inilah pentingnya membangun relasi yang kuat.

  • Pengalaman menyenangkan selama bekerja?

Bisa satu kantor dengan teman-teman satu angkatan. Karena membangun bareng-bareng kita bisa eksplor semua hal yang pengen kita lakukan dengan catatan bisa bertanggung jawab. Terus bisa ke Spanyol.

  • Dalam rangka apa datang ke Spanyol?

Ke Spanyol nonton bola, salah satu bagian dari pekerjaan. LaLiga ada representatifnya di Asia Tenggara kebetulan mereka ada campaign untuk memberangkatkan satu media. Kebetulan LaLiga kerjasama dengan TikTok. TikTok memfollow up kita sebagai salah satu media yang kerap kerjasama dan akhirnya kita yang dipilih untuk berangkat. Di Spanyol selama 7 hari di dua kota Barcelona dan Madrid untuk menonton pertandingan. Yang dipilih dari Indonesia hanya Sport77 dan satu orang.

  • Kenapa bisa dipilih, pertimbangan dari LaLiga?

Saya tanya ke LaLiga, kami cukup rajin untuk mengikuti campaign di TikTok, selama beberapa waktu ke belakang kita memang jalan bareng dengan TikTok meliput AFF ke Vietnam, MotoGP Mandalika dan beberapa campaign lainnya. Kebetulan di campaign ini yang pas untuk berangkat dari TikTok tentu memberi SOW kepada LaLiga. TikTok merasa yang paling capable sport77.

  • Apakah bekerja harus sesuai passion, apakah sepenting itu?

Kalau menurutku sebelum menuruti passion pastikan dapur kalian aman dulu. Ketika dapur sudah aman bisa mengejar passion dimana. Namun alangkah lebih baik jika memang passion kalian bisa jadi sumber rezeki yasudah karena yang penting adalah dapur, karena dapur adalah segalanya. Kalau hanya mikirin passion tapi dapur kalian belum keisi waktu terus berjalan, akan bersaing dengan banyak orang dan orang-orang lain stepnya sudah mulai duluan.

Itulah cerita inspiratif yang dibagikan oleh Ojik, harapannya mampu memberi motivasi bagi kalian ya Comms.

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Mahasiswa Komunikasi Indonesia Hadiri Global Harmony Arab Saudi sebagai Influencer Dakwah dan Hiburan

Mahasiswa Komunikasi Indonesia Hadiri Global Harmony Arab Saudi sebagai Influencer Dakwah dan Hiburan

Pengalaman meliput event internasional dirasakan oleh Harry Setya, mahasiswa Ilmu Komunikasi UII angkatan 2022. Ia diundang oleh Ministry of Media Arab Saudi untuk turut mempromosikan event bertajuk Global Harmony pada November hingga Oktober 2024 silam di Al Suwaidi Park, Riyadh.

Global Harmony adalah bagian dari visi 2030 yakni meningkatkan kualitas kehidupan masyarakat hingga terwujudnya negara Arab sebagai kota wisata. Sementara negara Indonesia turut diundang untuk menampilkan berbagai parade dan kesenian di sana.

“Sebagai diperingatkan sebagai langkah untuk visi 2030 negara arab sebagai kota wisata, krmudian mencetuskan program namanya Global Harmony salah satunya negara Indonesia,” ujar Harry.

Peran Harry pada event tersebut adalah mempromosikan Global Harmony sebagai ajang kesuksesan Arab Saudi menjadi pusat wisata. Tak sendiri, Harry datang bersama 9 influencer lainnya serta media-media nasional seperti CNN, Kompas, Antara, dan lainnya.

Kesempatan tersebut ia dapatkan lewat jejaring yang dibangunnya, beberapa tahun terakhir Harry telah menggeluti pekerjaan sebagai influencer dakwah dan entertainment.

“Saya mendaftar, namun itu tidak dibuka secara masif saya ada networking,” tambahnya.

Selama tujuh hari di Arab Saudi, empat hari dialokasikan Harry untuk fokus meliput rangkaian program Global Harmony.

“Saya meliput sebagai influencer untuk mempromosikan negara Arab sebagai kota wisata,” ujarnya lagi.

Ia bertanggung jawab untuk menyusun content planning dan mewujudkannya dalam bentuk video reels di Instagram. Pengalaman ini menjadi bentuk kerja professional bagi seorang influencer. Ada target yang harus dicapai.

Beruntungnya Harry telah mendapat berbagai materi di kelas. Sebagai mahasiswa ilmu Komunikasi dengan peminatan Public Relations, baginya sudah familiar dengan konsep-konsep IMC (Integrated Marketing Communication).

“Ilmu yang dapet dari kampus, mata kuliah IMC, jelasin bagaimana caranya konten itu viral, dan apa yang harus dilakukan ketika punya sebuah syarat cara promosinya itu seperti apa. Marketing panel itu di awareness, cara biar konten viral adalah menjual cerita yaitu story telling,” ucapnya.

Baginya ini merupakan liputan internasional perdana, “pertama kali ikut meliput acara internasional, ekspektasinya disana diberi tanggung jawab kesannya bukan cuma main-main tapi ada pressure harus ini harus itu dengan kegiatan yang banyak banget. Senang karena Riyadh sangat maju dan banyak hal yang bisa dieksplor,” tandasnya.

Beberapa negara turut memeriahkan Global harmony, selain Indonesia negara-negara lain yang hadir antara lain Pakistan, Filipina, Bangladesh, India, Suriah, Lebanon, Sudan, Mesir, dan yordania.

Indonesia memiliki daya tarik yang unik, beberapa budaya dan seni ditampilkan, mulai dari tarian berbagai daerah serta parade pakaian adat Bali, Papua, Sumatera Barat, hingga Betawi. Beberapa makanan Indonesia yang bisa dicicipi pada even internasional yakni nasi padang, sate, baso aci, siomay, hingga nasi goreng.

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Agenda Setting Theory: How Media Shapes Public Focus 

Agenda Setting Theory: How Media Shapes Public Focus 

Communication theories help us understand how information is transmitted and how it influences individuals, groups, and society. These theories matter because they allow us to critically examine the media’s role in shaping our worldview. One such theory is the Agenda-Setting Theory, which explains how media influences not what people think, but what people think about. In other words, the media has the power to decide which issues are seen as important by the public.

Agenda-Setting Theory was first introduced by Maxwell McCombs and Donald Shaw in their 1972 study, “The Agenda-Setting Function of Mass Media”. This study focused on the 1968 U.S. presidential election and found that the issues emphasized in the media were the very issues that the public came to regard as most significant. The theory suggests that by giving more coverage to certain topics, the media can make those topics more noticeable, or salient, in the public’s mind.

The core concept of Agenda-Setting Theory is called salience transfer — the process through which the importance of issues in media coverage is transferred to the public agenda. Media outlets decide which stories to highlight, how often to cover them, and how much space or air time to give them. As a result, audiences tend to perceive those stories as more significant.

The theory operates on two levels:

  1. First-level agenda-setting: Focuses on the salience of issues, or which topics matter to the public.
  2. Second-level agenda-setting: Focuses on the salience of attributes, or how certain issues or candidates are framed — for example, what traits or characteristics the media emphasizes.

This theory rests on the assumption that media audiences often rely on media for information. The more the media covers an issue, the more important that issue appears to the public.

The Impact of This Theory

Agenda-setting doesn’t just affect how people talk about events; it has long-term impacts on:

  • Public Awareness: Making certain issues stand out from the rest.
  • Public Opinion: Influencing which topics people consider worth discussing and worrying about.
  • Policy and Political Action: Helping shape priorities for leaders and institutions.

In Indonesia, the extensive media focus on PPKM (Pemberlakuan Pembatasan Kegiatan Masyarakat), which is the policy that restricts community activities, and kept this measure at the top of the public agenda. The constant stream of information about case numbers, restrictions, and government policies made PPKM a priority in the public’s daily conversations and influenced behavior across the nation. Another example is the media coverage of climate change. The more media outlets report on rising temperatures, melting glaciers, and extreme weather events, the more these topics dominate public discussions and policy decisions, and the more the media puts a spotlight on them.

Agenda-Setting Theory highlights the powerful role media play in shaping public discourse. While it doesn’t target individual opinions, it sets the boundaries for what people discuss, worry about, and ultimately act upon. In a world full of information, understanding this theory is crucial for becoming more aware of how perceptions are formed and why certain topics dominate the conversation.

References

The Agenda-Setting Role of the News Media. (2019, march). ResearchGate. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/332287520_The_Agenda-Setting_Role_of_the_News_Media

Agenda Setting Theory | Media’s Role in Shaping Public Opinion. (2023, April 8). Media Theory. Retrieved June 24, 2025, from https://mediatheory.net/agenda-setting-theory/

Maxwell E. McCombs, Donald L. Shaw. (n.d.). The Agenda-Setting Function of Mass Media. JSTOR, VoI.36(No.2), 176-187. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2747787?seq=7

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Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII: Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik?

Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik

Desain kemasan sebuah produk memiliki peran penting dalam sebuah produk. Penampakan visual memegang banyak peran mulai dari daya tarik, identitas merek, informasi produk, pengalaman pelanggan, hingga pengaruh Keputusan pembelian.

Tak hanya fokus pada kualitas produk, seorang pemilik usaha dituntut untuk adaptif dengan transformasi digital yang mengedepankan estetika visual. Menjawab persoalan tersebut dosen Jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi UII, Ida Nuraini Dewi Kodrat Ningsih, S.I.Kom., M.A. melakukan pengabdian bertajuk “Pelatihan Design Packaging Sederhana”.

Bekerjasama dengan Dinas Komunikasi Informatika dan Persandian Kota Yogyakarta, pemberdayaan diberikan kepada Kelompok Informasi Masyarakat Yogyakarta (KIM YK) di Kelurahan Suryatmajan pada Kamis, 19 Juni 2025.

Sebanyak 40 masyarakat yang tergabung dalam KIM YK merupakan pelaku UMKM yang diharapkan akan

“Pemberdayaan atau pelatihan dalam konteks ini untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan, ekonomi, dan skill. Agar komunitas ini terutama melalui masyarakat, melalui komunitas-komunitas UMKM ini bisa berdiri, bisa mandiri bahkan bahkan bisa membuka lapangan kerja,” ujar Ida Nuraini Dewi Kodrat Ningsih, S.I.Kom., M.A.

Praktiknya, pemberdayaan ini dilakukan bersama mahasiswa International Program Communication (IPC) batch 2023. Puluhan mahasiswa terjun untuk belajar langsung bagaimana komunikasi pemberdayaan pada realita sosial.

Desain packaging sederhana dilakukan menggunakan alat seadanya, melalui smartphone yang dimiliki masyarakat aplikasi Canva dikenalkan. Workshop dimulai dengan pemahaman dasar terkait desain packaging, dilanjutkan dengan praktik membuat desain di Canva.

“Kelompok komunitas didampingi oleh mahasiswa-mahasiswa IPC 2023, walaupun konteksnya adalah mahasiswa dan internasional program tapi mereka harus tahu konteks lokal itu seperti apa, bahkan konteks memberdayakan masyarakat lokal dan turun langsung ke lapangan melihat bagaimana keadaan masyarakat,” tambahnya.

Sebelum workshop, hadir pula Ketua KIM Provinsi DIY Bapak Suripto. Beliau memberikan pengarahan hingga bagaimana awal mula perintisan KIM.

Pengabdian Dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII Bagaimana Cara Membuat Desain Packaging yang Menarik

Mahasiswa IPC turut mendampingi workshop desain packaging

Berikut rencana pemberdayaan yang akan berlangsung tiga sesi:

Rangkaian Workshop Pemberdayaan

  1. Sesi Pertama (Sudah Berlangsung)
  • Tema: Workshop desain kemasan menggunakan Canva.
  • Materi:
    • Pentingnya desain kemasan untuk produk UMKM.
    • Praktik menggunakan Canva (versi gratis/berbayar affordable).
  • Tujuan: Memberikan solusi praktis dan ekonomis untuk meningkatkan daya saing produk.
  • Pendamping: Mahasiswa IPC (International Program Communication), UII – khususnya dari mata kuliah Empowerment Communication 2023.
  1. Sesi Kedua (Rencana Minggu Depan)
  • Tema: Workshop fotografi produk sederhana.
  • Teknologi: Menggunakan kamera smartphone (tidak mengandalkan alat canggih).
  • Tujuan: Meningkatkan kualitas visual produk UMKM.
  1. Sesi Ketiga (Rencana Berikutnya)
  • Tema: Workshop e-commerce (Shopee dan platform lain).
  • Tujuan: Mengajarkan pemasaran digital produk UMKM.
  • Pemateri: Praktisi entrepreneur pemilik toko e-commerce besar dari Malioboro.

Meigitaria Sanita
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The Uses and Gratification Theory in Everyday Life

The Uses and Gratification Theory in Everyday Life

Communication theories help us understand how people interact through messages and media. They explain the reasons behind media use and its effects on audiences. One important theory in this field is the Uses and Gratifications Theory (U&G). This theory focuses on the idea that people are not just passive receivers of media but active users who choose media based on their needs.

The origins of U&G trace back to the 1940s, with early studies on radio listeners. However, it was further developed in the 1970s by Elihu Katz, Jay Blumler, and Michael Gurevitch. They aimed to understand why people use certain media instead of how media affects people. Later contributors like Herta Herzog and Wilbur Schramm added to the theory by studying media motivations and preferences in more detail.

How Does It Work? Understanding the Theory’s Framework

The core idea of U&G theory is that people use media to fulfill personal needs. These needs are diverse and vary from one individual to another. It also shows that people use media not just because it’s available, but because they expect it to give them something meaningful.

To understand how this theory works, it’s important to look at its five key assumptions:

  1. The audience is active :People are not passive receivers,and they choose media intentionally to meet specific goals.
  2. Media use is goal-directed : Viewers or users have reasons for selecting particular media content.
  3. Media competes with other sources of satisfaction :People can also meet their needs through friends, books, hobbies, not just media.
  4. Users understand and can explain their own media use :This means people are generally aware of what they want from media and why they use it.
  5. Cultural judgment is suspended : Instead of labeling media as “good” or “bad,” researchers focus on how individuals actually use and interpret it.

These assumptions shape the theory by emphasizing the audience’s role in the communication process. They highlight that media use is not accidental or random. Instead, people approach the media with a purpose, and this purpose is often shaped by their environment, mood, personality, and current situation. Alongside the assumptions, U&G outlines five categories of needs that explain why people use media:

  • Cognitive needs: the need to gain information and knowledge.
  • Affective needs: the need for emotional satisfaction or entertainment.
  • Personal integrative needs: the need to boost self-esteem and personal identity.
  • Social integrative needs: the desire to connect with others or be part of a group.
  • Tension-free needs: the need for escape and relaxation.

These needs influence media choice. For example, someone feeling lonely might scroll through Instagram (social integrative), while another stressed person might watch funny videos on YouTube to relax (tension-free).

Real-Life Examples

During the 2024 elections, many young people used TikTok not just for entertainment but to follow political updates. Some watched short videos to understand policies (cognitive needs), while others enjoyed humorous or emotional content related to politics (affective needs). Many users also posted their opinions to feel more confident and heard (personal integrative needs) and stayed connected through comments and trends (social integrative needs). For others, TikTok offered a fun escape from the stress of political debates (tension-free needs).

The Uses and Gratifications Theory is important because it shifts the focus from what media does to people to what people do with media. It reminds us that we actively participate in media use, driven by our personal needs and goals. This theory helps media creators and researchers better understand audiences and create content that meets real human desires.

References

Moses Sichach. (2023, November 17). Uses and Gratifications theory – Background, History and Limitations. SSRN, 1-11. https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4729248

Meigitaria Sanita
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Framing Theory: Shaping Perception Through Media

Framing Theory: Shaping Perception Through Media

In the vast world of communication studies, theories help us understand how messages are created, interpreted, and influence society. Communication theories explore the processes, tools, and impacts of information exchange across different platforms. One such influential theory is Framing Theory, which focuses on how media and communicators shape public perception by highlighting certain aspects of a message while ignoring others. Framing does not only tell audiences what to think about but also how it goes a step further to suggest how to think about it.

Gregory Bateson introduced the concept of framing in 1972, who defined psychological frames as the “spatial and temporal bounding of a set of interactive messages.” This concept was later expanded by scholars like Erving Goffman, whose work Frame Analysis (1974) became foundational in understanding how individuals use mental frameworks to interpret events. The theory shares roots with agenda-setting theory, which examines how media decides the importance of issues.

However, framing moves beyond agenda-setting by focusing on the essence and context of those issues. Robert Entman, a key figure in modern framing research, emphasized that framing involves selection and salience—choosing some aspects of reality and making them more noticeable in communication.

How Framing Theory Works

Framing theory suggests that the way information is presented—its “frame”—influences how people understand and react to it. These frames act as organizing principles or abstractions that structure meaning. Robert Entman, who is a leading scholar in framing theory, proposed that effective frames perform four core functions in communication. These functions help shape how audiences interpret and respond to messages. The four functions are:

  1. Define Problems: This involves identifying what a problem is and why it matters. For example, a news report may define climate change as a global emergency, framing it as an urgent issue requiring attention.
  2. Diagnose Causes: Once the problem is defined, the frame suggests who or what is responsible. In the case of climate change, the frame might point to industrial pollution, government inaction, or unsustainable consumption patterns.
  3. Make Moral Judgments: Frames often include evaluations of those involved. They may suggest that certain behaviors are unethical or unjust, such as blaming oil companies for prioritizing profit over the planet.
  4. Suggest Remedies (Treatment Recommendations): Finally, frames offer solutions or courses of action. These may include policy changes, public awareness campaigns, or technological innovations.

Also, according to Goffman, people rely on primary frameworks:

  • Natural frameworks interpret events as physical occurrences, independent of human influence
  • Social frameworks view events as the result of human actions and motivations.

Real-Life Examples of Framing

Real-Life Example: Framing in the Case of Palestine

The media often frames the situation in Palestine in different ways, which affects how people understand the conflict.

  1. Some news reports use the conflict frame, showing it as a fight between two equal sides, without explaining the power difference.
  2. Others use the responsibility frame, blaming only the Palestinian side while ignoring the role of occupation and blockade.
  3. The human-interest frame is used when stories show the suffering of Palestinian families, especially women and children, to create empathy.
  4. Some media apply the morality frame, questioning whether military actions against civilians are ethical.

These different frames can lead audiences to see Palestinians as either victims or aggressors, even when the facts are the same. This shows how framing can strongly shape public opinion.

Framing Theory is a powerful lens for understanding media influence. By not only selecting what to present but also how to present it, communicators shape audience perceptions, attitudes, and behaviors. Recognizing the use of frames in everyday communication helps individuals become more critical consumers of media and more responsible communicators themselves. As the media continues to act as society’s gatekeeper, framing remains a vital tool for both analysis and awareness in the communication field.

Reference

Arowolo, S. O. (2017). UNDERSTANDING FRAMING THEORY. researchgate, 1-4.

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita