DCU student, Jack O’Dea, carried out some research to analyse the impact NEAR FM has on the Northside of Dublin. In his dissertation, the fundamentals of community radio were outlined, the objectives and foundations of the practice and the possible future of the concept. This research was qualitative in order to gain an insight into the workings of the people who have liaised with NEAR FM. Two groups of interviewees were questioned, to ensure a broad understanding of the organisation. Interviewees cited having enjoyable experiences during their training program, with an increased sense of independence and self-efficacy. We found NEAR FM served a definite purpose to the community of North Dublin.
You can read the full paper What impact does NEAR FM have on the North Side of Dublin in terms of Social Return on Investment (SROI)? HERE