DRACE is an academic research group that specializes in studies of radio and audio media.

The radio medium is undergoing renewed challenges and significant change in all markets. Digital radio technologies, mobile communications and the internet have radically transformed the environment in which radio, as traditionally conceived, operates.

There is a widespread belief that radio must re-invent itself in the new digital age to avoid a long term decline. If it does not go digital, it is claimed, radio could become obsolete and lose younger audiences who have become accustomed to a vast array of digital choices in their media experiences.

DRACE studies these changes with a variety of empirical methods, conforming to the highest standards of international research in the field.

News:

Digital Radio in Europe: Technologies, Industries and Cultures was published in February 2010.

Drawing upon extensive cross-national research conducted by the Digital Radio Cultures in Europe research group, this volume offers the first comprehensive review of the complex environment in which European digital radio now operates. The title describes the technologies, policies and different strategies utilized to bring radio into the digital era.
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Stronger European ties

DRACE is now involved in the COST Action "Transforming Audiences, Transforming Societies" which was kicked-off in Brussel in March 2010. Brian O'Neill is management committee member (MC) for Ireland, and Lars Nyre is MC for Norway. Marko Ala-Fossi is vice-MC for Finland. The action will be active until at least 2014. DRACE will among other things contribute with a joint qualitative study of participation in broadcast and social media, which has been ongoing since 2004.