Citizen reporters: Working with traditional journalists in supporting roles
Citizen journalism has a long long way to go in terms of building credibility and trust. I, for one, am not a great fan of citizen journalism, in the sense that I would not rely on citizen journalists for information although I would probably use the information they provide to complement a story or report, but not before verifying it of course.
I do not discount however, the significant contribution that citizen journalists have done in terms of giving a whole new meaning and perpsective to news reporting. Thanks to citizen journalists, the entire world, virtually witnessed the unfolding of major events through ordinary people who sent digital camera or camera phone-shot photos of tsunami, London bombings and the like to news organisations and narrated through the net, actual experiences, giving more color to a story.
However, serious journalism does not end there. More than storytelling, it must be able to truthfully report and make sense of all available and sometimes confusing information, to help educate and aid the public in their decision making process.
I think the ideal citizen journalist only exists in some bloggers' views.
In fact, many have predicted the print media’s demise with the advent of the Internet, but I am convinced that the newspaper’s essential values, such as adherence to truth, accuracy and fairness, will keep them ahead of the race.
Citizen journalism will not replace traditional journalism but I think it would be effective in playing a supporting or complementary role. I think, traditional and citizen journalists will have to coexist. More than coexist, they should look at each other as allies and not rivals.
I do not discount however, the significant contribution that citizen journalists have done in terms of giving a whole new meaning and perpsective to news reporting. Thanks to citizen journalists, the entire world, virtually witnessed the unfolding of major events through ordinary people who sent digital camera or camera phone-shot photos of tsunami, London bombings and the like to news organisations and narrated through the net, actual experiences, giving more color to a story.
However, serious journalism does not end there. More than storytelling, it must be able to truthfully report and make sense of all available and sometimes confusing information, to help educate and aid the public in their decision making process.
I think the ideal citizen journalist only exists in some bloggers' views.
In fact, many have predicted the print media’s demise with the advent of the Internet, but I am convinced that the newspaper’s essential values, such as adherence to truth, accuracy and fairness, will keep them ahead of the race.
Citizen journalism will not replace traditional journalism but I think it would be effective in playing a supporting or complementary role. I think, traditional and citizen journalists will have to coexist. More than coexist, they should look at each other as allies and not rivals.
posted by Karen at 5:38 PM
2 Comments:
I agree with your points, Karen. It is happening now that CJs are becoming more "credible" news sources. As our readings have pointed out too, the Internet and blogging have already made it possible for news to become more interactive. Traditionally, news have been about "us" telling them "what, where, etc." We aim for truthfulness, accuracy, etc. Ohmynews and Global Voices are already gaining the same respect given to MSMs (mainstream media). I'm a fan of good journalism, and if CJs complement what I'm doing, I will gladly embrace them.
Hi Karen
I completely agree with your thoughts on CJ, especially the points on working as allies and co-operation. With so much information being accessible, credibility is at stake and verifications needed. As long as we are on the same page of providing accurate and truthful information, we should be good journalists, regardless of what platform we use.
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