Sound clips are attached that provide the actual audience survey undertaken.

In the process of planning my own magazine and making the necessary decisions to do with audience interests, target audience and house style, I have had to research into what different types of audiences (Key stage 3,4,5 students, parents, teacher and members of the community) want to see and expect to see in school magazines. Once again this is a vital part of my planning, my task being to collect audience research to use while manufacturing my magazine. I have done this by recording my audience’s responses to questions that I asked them relating my magazine to their specifications on the particular target audience, their idea of the ideal appearance of a good school magazine and finally what articles would they find interesting to read about in school magazines. With them being able to tell me their personal interests and opinions, I feel that I have efficiently recorded a range of results which will help me decide upon my magazines target audience and other variables to help me plan my own magazine.

Audience Research Results:

What do you look for in the title of a school magazine?
A bold and memorable title which stands out, by the inclusion of modern and funky designs, maybe by the use of alliteration and a meaningful name e.g. a pun.

What articles people would like to read?
Articles targeted at some peoples personal interests, or articles that reflect the whole school, feature articles and areas of school life e.g. workshops, school trips or performances and perhaps focusing on after school life too. Recent events and occurrences, real life stories and sports.

What colours should be used?
The school’s colours so that it’s then recognisable to that particular school, bright and vibrant colours like purples, reds and blues, and some calmer colours which would still stand out e.g. baby blues and greens.

Do you feel that a school magazine should definitely have an equal amount of images and text?
Depending upon the target audience, for students there could be more images, for parents and teachers there could be more text.

How could the magazine be made interactive?
Perhaps by adding a website that the readers can look at, at their leisure.

Peoples interests:
Reading, singing, sport, playing games, the arts: films, visual art or performances, listening to music.

How can a school magazine target both genders?
By using a variety of different colours targeted at both males and females, mixed gender articles featuring topics that are enjoyed by both genders.

Should a school magazine attract parents?
No, as it may be harder to attract parents as they don’t go to school, but could be read by parents, however should still mainly be aimed at the students.


How could a school magazine attract parents and teachers as well as students?
By using a range of articles with different focuses for different articles, by making it more sophisticated, by using an appropriate house style.