In mass communication, media are basically the communication tools or resources utilized to deliver and store data or information. The word, media, generally refers to entities of this mass communications sector, including print media, television, radio, film, publishing, and the Internet media. These mass media include printed materials, audio and video, visual images, text, logos, the written word, and other data storage devices. The mass media can be classified in three main fields: printed media (newspapers, periodicals, books), music, and visual arts. They also encompass performance media such as films, stage shows, concerts, video games, and TV series.

With the rise of different types of mediums and technologies for communication, the role of media in society has greatly expanded. In order for a person to be able to access and make use of the media for communication; there must be some kind of a medium or channel for them to use. Media differ in many ways. Some types of media can be considered to be the most popular forms of media that have influenced the way we communicate.

Print Media: The mass media is comprised of newspapers, magazines, book publishers, and news publications. Newspapers first appeared in medieval times. With the widespread use of printing presses, these early forms of media became the common medium for delivering news and information. Television, which was discovered by some European scholars around the 16th century, served as an early form of mass media. It could be powered by candles, oil lamps, or even animal droppings. Television has evolved from the humble lamp to state-of-the-art satellite communication systems and full-motion video.

Film and Video: Initially, film and television were simply recorded pictures. However, changes in technology and business trends paved the way for the development of two other forms of media. Movie theatres began showing motion pictures and television was enhanced with the invention of television. Movie houses began to provide wide screen televisions for the convenience of viewers. Audio books and radio were born from the need for more affordable and portable forms of entertainment. These new media gave humanity the opportunity to communicate and express itself in a way never before imagined.

Digital Media: As digital technology started to influence every aspect of our lives, it was named “Digital Communication.” It essentially means any method of communication that is generated using electronic data. Digital communication can refer to audio recordings, written text, images, animations, computer animation, video, and computer graphics. This type of media has revolutionized communication worldwide. Digital media allows us to connect with people from all over the world via the Internet, to share pictures and information, to broadcast live television, and to develop new communication methods such as e-mail and instant messaging.

Print Media: All forms of communication media include print. Newspapers are a historic example of print media. Other examples of print media include periodicals, magazines, and books. Print media includes newsprint, books, magazines, pamphlets, booklets, posters, directories, and other publications.