Can the research impact of broadcast programming be determined?

Abstract

The study used a pragmatic mixed methods approach to evaluate the change in knowledge and habits of viewers of research broadcast during two factual TV entertainment programmes to see if it was possible to measure the impact of watching. It was possible to demonstrate some changes in knowledge, though this is likely to be transient, and while potential changes in behaviour were reported, they are difficult to verify. Limitations of the approaches are discussed. Complexity of the participants' lifestyles and social interactions will additionally influence outcomes.