Is college worth the money? Is the American dream dead? These are the kind of provocative questions debated on “Point Taken,’’ a new show on WGBH hosted by Carlos Watson. Unusually, the audience can participate via social media such as Facebook and Twitter. The genesis came from executive producer Denise Dilanni, who says broadcast outlets need to expand their digital reach.
Social-media interaction is such an important aspect of ‘Point Taken.’ What suggestions do you have for digital participation?
Get involved early, before the broadcast. For our show, you can follow “Point Taken’’ on Facebook, Twitter, and Snapchat (@PointTakenPBS). Encourage friends to join the debate by sharing the topics, or posting the Twitter poll and explainer video. During the taping, the show hosts a “Facebook Live’’ segment from the set with Carlos and panelists, giving Facebook fans a chance to directly ask questions or weigh in with their own points. Use the “Point Taken’’ Facebook page to participate in the live stream.
How is Twitter an integral part of ‘Point Taken’?
We monitor tweets live and insert the most salient and compelling points into the broadcast itself. This broadcast integration adds texture and depth to the debate and gives those joining the conversation on Twitter a national platform for their thoughts and comments. We also surface Facebook comments on screen, although the vast majority are from Twitter, as we can turn around a tweet and put it on national television within about 12 seconds from when the person first tweets it. Facebook is a little less time-sensitive.
There’s a deluge of international and national news; how can we keep up with it all?
There’s an embarrassment of riches and an overwhelming deluge from journalistic sites. But curatorial aggregation sites make it easier to consume. Economist Espresso is one option, a new morning briefing from the editors of the Economist; it gives you a global agenda for the day. I also go to standard-bearers like CNN.com, while also trying to consume different points of view — periodicals like reason.com — that have a libertarian angle. On the other hand, a place like Mic.com is more classically progressive and hipster.
CINDY ATOJI KEENE
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