Week 14 Finally!

Well, made it to the bitter end of the blog! A lot of good has come out of it though, and being my first one that I have consistently worked on over the past thirteen weeks, it has made me want to continue the trendy trend on other topics of interest at a later date!
It's a great cathartic process when you want to vent your emotions about the many stresses of life (like what I am boring you with now!)
This week is all about:

ETHICAL JOURNALISM: Is it an oxymoron? Chapter 16 of The Daily Miracle. Hopefully the text won't outlive its usefulness!

So, prepare yourself for the Semester's grand finale of:

J. JONAH JAMESON QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Y'know, why not, as a treat for putting up with my blogs, you can have a double dose!



"They're crap. Crap, crap, megacrap. I'll give you three hundred bucks for all of 'em".

"Guy named Otto Octavius winds up with eight limbs. For mechanical arms welded right onto his body. What are the odds?"

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS (p. 406)

1. This question depends on what the information is about and whether it is of significant public interest. however, not knowing what information I am going to receiver would make me sceptical about dealing with 'dirty money'. So, in this situation my decision would be to refuse to pay, not on financial grounds, but like this chapter outlined, on ETHICAL grounds. If you consult the MEAA Code of Ethics, it clearly says in point 7:
"Do you utmost to ensure disclosure of any direct or indirect payment made for interviews, pictures, information or stories"

It's hard to make an informed decision on all these ethical issues because usually you don't have time to plan what you're going to say, think or do. It's then and there. Right here, right now!

2. I would definitely report on how I honestly felt about it, because the role of a journalist is to be fair and accurate. Otherwise the story is a compromise, and a lie told to deliberately deceive the public. Also, unless it is legally written in a contract, the airline can't demand me to write anything specific about their company. And since it may only jeopardize an advertising contract, probably involving big money, they don't want to be associated with a company who doesn't deliver what they promise, and my story could potentially affect their decision to commit to a contract. In short, be fair and balanced; do not take material gifts or be persuaded!

3. Honesty is paramount in the news and media industry, so not admitting mistakes because of a fear of financial loss is not part of a journalist's duty. Their number one priority must always take preference, which is of course, to serve the public by informing them of accurate and balanced current affairs. Plus, this is yet another case of not being persuaded by outsiders. You must maintain a hard ethical shell at all times and consider every decision such as this one carefully; and I'm sure it's not an easy task!

4. This is another tough ethical situation, because whilst her situation could be genuine, people often exaggerate the facts or make them up entirely in order to avoid media publication or recognition. The best thing to do here is to ask the right questions of the teenager, and probe for as much information as possible without seeming like you are intervening in their private lives and gathering facts for the intention of writing a news story. Don't be gullible and fall for any old story, and I know I may have responded differently to a similar question in an early blog question, but I am wiser and more mature now, and as a young journalist, you have to be prepared to question, question, question!

JOURNALISM ISSUE ENTRY:

I'll try keeping it brief this week as everyone likes to knock of the semester early!
Anyway, oxymoronic journalism. It's an interesting topic in that it is a very grey area. Sometimes, it is acceptable for journalists to take 'goods' or give money in exchange for information, but only in exceptional circumstances where the duty to serve the public comes first.
Journalists shouldn't be wooed by materialistic possessions from PR people who expect positive reviews and publicity in return. That undermines the whole point of the profession in all aspects; it is even personally unrewarding to know that what you say isn't truly what you believe.
Fairfax journalists are under no circumstances to accept these 'bribes' as part of their code of ethical practice, which is covered under point 4:

"Do not allow personal interest, or any belief, commitment, payment, gift or benefit, to undermine your accuracy, fairness or independence"
Makes you wonder how many news organisations actually strictly adhere to this code of practice. Is their policy actually codified?


But in the end: Ethics and morals are priceless. Integrity is everything.

MEAA members engaged in journalism commit themselves to:
-Honesty
-Fairness
-Independence
-Respect for the rights of others.

Now finally before we wrap it up, we shall raise our glasses to the essence of journalistic objectivity:



Zeej McQueen out, for the last time: "Zeejay's Journalism Junk" Goodnight.

Week Thirteen: The Penultimate Post!

This week is another two course helping of Journalism Junk, discussing and analysing: -Chapter 13: Online news: journalism's strands coverage (from p. 296)
-Chapter 17: Perils of Defamation (from p. 408)

My 'Journalism Junk' blog has come this far, I can only hope it has been a pleasure for all who have encountered and read it!
My intention was mainly to encourage people to gain an insight into the world of journalism, mediated through my own reflections and opinions, so I hope you got something out of it over these many weeks of Daily Miracle textbook readings!
I do have a bit of a 'theme' running through these postings, so if this were the first time you have visited my blog, I'd strongly recommend checking some previous editions out! And make sure you check out my final post for this subject next week!

Anyway, moving right along now...

J. JONAH JAMESON QUOTE OF THE WEEK:



Peter Parker says: "Spider-Man wasn't trying to attack the city, he was trying to save it. That's slander."

To which Jameson replies: "It is not. I resent that. Slander is spoken. In print, it's libel."

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: ONLINE NEWS (p. 313)

There is a record number for this chapter alone, plus there is another round to come after these! I suggest you settle in and get as comfortable as you can for a long journey!

1. What do media companies need to do in relation to convergence before they can expect their journalists to work in converged newsrooms?

They need to ensure that they aren't trying to force journalists to engage in every style of journalism ever conceived, but rather trying to build up a relationship between those personnel of cross media boundaries. Everyone needs to know their own role and how others work in order to effectively co-operate and establish positive, clear communication, but not necessarily be fully qualified and expect to undertake any duty from television to print and everything in between!

2. What would be the likely outcome if someone who just wanted to work as a print journalist, because they were nervous on television, was told by the company they worked for that they must report for television as well as print?

As I mentioned before, people working in any of these areas need to have a knowledgeable understanding across a wide range of media in order to function in a converged news room, however if someone that worked in print was suddenly made to be on T.V and they didn't have the necessary 'aesthetic' qualities, it would have catastrophic effects for their overall confidence and career development, and it is highly likely the media organisation would suffer due to consumers declining to watch their news, and therefore the loss of key advertising revenue and therefore funding. So, whilst this style of 'convergence' may work in theory, the negative consequences far out way the benefits!

3. Is journalistic convergence just a trendy fad that will run its course then be forgotten about?

I think I’ll let a few small extracts from The Daily Miracle answer this one:

"Convergence is the flavour of the month, but it seems that journalists working for the US media conglomerate [Media General] which was said to be a model for all to follow were not really using it. The fact is that what is really driving cross-platform news reporting - as distinct from converged, or cross-media, ownership - is the web" (p. 299).
"In the current media environment in Australia it is extremely unlikely that newspapers, radio, or television will disappear. They are too profitable in their own right". (p. 299)

4.What would be the long-term outcome in Australia of relaxed cross-media ownership laws?

These are only possible outcomes, nothing 100% certain, however the following could occur:
- Domination by rich, prominent media moguls of all platforms
- Lack of diversity within each form
- Consumers lose faith in all media forms if they are controlled by few organisations providing little diversity
- Advertisers may become disillusioned with converging tactics and may elect not to provide needed funds

In summary, it certainly wouldn't increase media diversity and accuracy!

5. If you had a crystal ball, what would it tell you about the future of radio, television, and the web?

Simply to not be so paranoid about the Internet converging all media and becoming the only medium by which to receive any news. All the contemporary media forms that exist in the present each have a unique purpose, and there is no need to replace them in favour of one form.
And who knows...maybe something even better and more sophisticated may come along?

6. Should the idea of multiskilling be integrated into every course in university journalism studies? Why?

I think that it should definitely be something to consider in the future, as multi-skilled media industries is certainly where the future is heading, and for journalists to have myriad skills across a platform of different media would assist in adapting to the whole issue of 'convergence.' For instance, it should be university students studying journalism pick a major in one particular media format, and also gain extra knowledge on others. It will probably be a highly preferred job credential that employers look for: the multiskilled journalists!

7. Is society getting to a point where life as we know it could not survive without the Internet and web?

I think society is already at that point. I know if Internet savvy people stopped and thought once in a while how much they depend on it for work and social purposes, they would be very surprised about how much they take it for granted. Casing point, as I write these words, the though just occurs to me that I am writing a blog which will be published to the web for anyone in the world to read, and those massive, philosophical thoughts hardly enter the common consciousness. It's just a given now!
Also, imagine getting through the HSC or university without it. I'd say near impossible.
Researching, communicating in terms of social networking and work related uses, online learning tools, emails...there's a lot more to it when you really think about it!
The Internet mediates our whole society; I'd even go as far to say it dictates much of our lives to varying degrees!
Here's a challenge I put to you all: Make a mental note of how many consumer products or advertisements don't include some sort of web address to further your knowledge of their products etc

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS: PERILS OF DEFAMATION (p. 431)

All this legal action concerning defamation and suing is certainly a highly complex area of journalism, but it can also be interesting once you get your head around it!
I'm going to attempt that now through answering these three discussion questions:

1. You are a newspaper editor. One of your reporters has made an honest mistake that defamed someone. You publish an apology. The person defamed is not satisfied and wants you to print a full-page feature story promoting her business or she will sue. What will you do?

If further negotiation proves unsuccessful, then I'd have no choice but to take the matter to court. My reasoning for this is that I have no guarantee that the plaintiff won't turn around and sue the newspaper, regardless of whether I fulfil her request. I'd ensure I would not compensate for someone's alleged defamation case due to threat of blackmail.

2. Would you support a 'public figure' defence for the media that would sharply limit the rights of public figures, ranging from premiers to cricketers and rock stars, to take out defamation suits against the media? Why?

No. Because these people are constantly in the public eye, and chances are, they are more likely to be defamed. Limiting their rights to take out defamation suits against the media inhibits their status in society, and would just generate more outrage and more complication with legal action. In addition, it would be a very 'grey area' in defining who is exempt from the laws and who isn't, and this would generate more controversy. For example, is it acceptable for someone such as Andrew Hansen from ABC TV's The Chaser's War on Everything to take out defamation against someone, but not the Prime Minister of Australia, John Howard?







3. You have promised a confidential source that you will not identify her. However, you discover that what she told you is untrue. Your newspaper is sued for defamation. You try to contact the person but she has vanished. Do you reveal her identity in court? Why?

After a considerable attempt has made to contact her and it has been confirmed that the information she gave was false, then it would seem that revealing her would be the best, if only, option. If I couldn't contact her and she has disappeared, then obviously her intentions in providing her information to the media was to somewhat sabotage an individual or company's reputation. Since the reason for it was unknown, I wouldn't feel the need to protect her confidentiality anymore because again, her actions were obviously strategically planned to inflict the most damage possible, and deliberately mislead the public.

JOURNALISM ISSUE ENTRY:

The Chapter about online news particularly interested me this week, especially some of the theories of the future of other media forms, and the powerful, dominant nature of the Internet and all its potential to influence the direction of all media. Convergence seems to be the biggest talking point with the Internet revolution. Traditional ways of receiving news and current affairs is certainly transforming, but like the chapter in The Daily Miracle stresses, they won't be replaced by new media, rather complimented for the purpose of the public furthering their knowledge of any given subject or story which interests them. For example, if they watch an intriguing story on ABC's 7:30 Report, or miss the program they intended to watch, they have the convenience of being able to visit the website, and/or download a 'podcast' or 'vodcast' to their PC to watch at any time!

In my opinion, this is all fantastic news for the future of news, but in this week's blog I'd like to discuss an unexpected 'media centre' which is at the forefront of 'cutting edge' convergence: It is none other than Nintendo's new home console the NINTENDO WII!



This new device could change video gaming forever, with its easy accessibility for all who play it young and old. This audience demographic is inherent in its name, (Wii) meaning its simple and inclusive of all, gamer or non-gamer.

I own one myself, and just by having an active broadband Internet connection and turning it on, you instantly have access to myriad content literally at your fingertips via the Wii-mote, a TV remote like controller which responds via motion as determined by the gamer, and pointing it at the screen and pressing a few buttons:



The type of content you have access to is a digital photo manipulation channel, internet surfing, Wii shop where you can buy 'old-school' games, a news and current affairs channel and regular global weather updates! This is what the interface looks like:



Now, I should point out I am by no means trying to sell this product, it just serves as such a superb example of where media convergence is headed, and again, the power and influence of the web as more and more people become connected and it increasingly becomes INFORMATION ON DEMAND! And then what implications will this have?

Make sure you check Zeejay's Journalism Junk next week for the final post of this university second semester!

What's that? You just can't wait and want a little taster?
It's based around The Daily Miracle's Chapter 16: Ethical journalism: is it an oxymoron?
So if you want to read ahead so we can have a heated debate about what I'm sure will be controversial issues raised, then by all means...I compel you to.
And who knows? You may even want to drop me a comment and offer some constructive criticism on my blog?
Or now am I being just a little TOO ambitious?

Ask A Ninja Question 31 "TechNINlogy"

Week the 12th; Chapter 12: Broadcast journalism: the world's town crier!

I thought I'd jump ahead to Week Twelve's topic of the Journalism Junk because it made for an interesting, informative read. The information it provided was highly valuable for anyone with a passion for broadcast journalism and to all those aspiring to be involved in the industry!
I highly recommend reading the sections that deal with reporting for radio (begins on page 281 of The Daily Miracle) and reporting for television (begins page 288 of The Daily Miracle). Some handy tips 'n tricks to consider!
The first section of the chapter also outlines a history of the various broadcast mediums in Australia with strengths and weaknesses they have had during their evolution into dominant media forms.

Now, without any further ado...



J. JONAH JAMESON QUOTE OF THE WEEK!

[Discussing his son's wedding with his wife over the phone] "Flowers? How much? If you spend any more on this thing, you can pick the daisies off my grave! Get plastic!"

WEEK THE 12th ROUND OF DISCUSSION QUESTIONS (p. 294):

1. Do you think the ABC should be privatised? What impact might this have on broadcast journalism? If you disagree, could the government funding process be made less 'political'?



No, the ABC should not be privatised because as this week's textbook chapter reading indicated, "a poll in 2004 revealed that the ABC was the second most trusted organisation in Australia. The most trusted was The Salvation Army" (p. 268). So, privatisation or commercialisation would undermine the credibility of its news programs and other current affairs shows, which are focused on providing quality, balanced reporting.
Michael Warby, editor of the Australian Institute of Public Affairs publication IPA Review, argued years ago that the ABC should be privatised, dismantled, or radically reformed (p. 269).
This is precisely the opposite of what the ABC needs in order to continue to function as a balanced and impartial network, despite the further claims by Warby about the influence of its staff. Describing it as a 'staff-captured' organisation, he said he believed that ABC journalists represent an 'opinion cartel' (p. 269).
The impact of privatisation would create widespread public dissatisfaction and we would be inundated with, to put it bluntly, copious amounts of Americanised rubbish and constant crappy commercials. The government funding process couldn't really be made less 'politcal' because the ABC is funded by the people for the people, and the government is entrusted to spend the public's money wisely on quality programming. On another note concerning 'left wing bias' allegations which have repeatedly surfaced against the ABC, my view is that it isn't governed by an specific political agenda, rather it is a media organisation which is 'people orientated', a value which the Labor Party or 'left-wing' traditionally privileges more so than the Liberals.

2. You are a television news director with two strong job applications. One is from a 'telegenic' male, 28, with reasonable skill and experience. The other is from a female, 38. She is of 'average' appearance but has considerable skill and experience. Your present reporting staff consists of four females and one male, none older than 32. Who do you hire, and why?

Since the newsroom has a lack of males, and all the existing employees are not older than 32, it would make sense to hire another young recruit and give him training and work experience, whilst simultaneously balancing the genders. Of course, I'd have to look more closely at their applications, but given the information I've got from the question, that's my decision. Plus, television journalism is predominately about visuals, and someone who looks good on camera is going to appeal to viewers much more!

3. Given the strengths and weaknesses of each medium, which do you think is the 'best communicator' on any given story: radio, television, the web, or newspapers?

All mediums have their advantages and disadvantages. As mentioned in the chapter, broadcast mediums have the advantage of breaking stories first, but print has more of an opportunity to develop an in-depth analysis of any given issue, as the reader has the chance to re-read the material, whereas broadcast is only one chance. TV and radio are accessible by many people, and a most certainly the most widely used mediums for receiving news due to their 'interactive' style. Web material works well as a valuable news resource, but not everyone has easy access to it, so that is where it falls down as an effective communicator. For example, by 1975 there were more radios in America than people, bathtubs, or telephones! An amazing statistic! (Daily Miracle, p. 265). Despite this, I believe that television is the 'best communicator' as it gives a clear and concise summary of a news story. As put by The Daily Miracle, "Television's demands for 'vision' give it less flexibility than radio, but it can use techniques of both film and theatre. Therefore it has more tools than any other medium" (p. 279).
'Television can combine the sound and the audience-orientation of radio, the live continuous performance of theatre and the electronic techniques of film. It is capable of fusing the best of all previous communications media (Hillard 1981, pp. 15-16).

4. During the last federal election campaign do you think the broadcast media focused more on issues or personalities? What could have been done better?

To be quite honest, I wasn't very switched onto politics and the federal election as much as I am now, because I was only 16 years old. All I can really remember was that Mark Latham was the leader of the Opposition (ALP), and John Howard (Liberal Party) won the election. Broadcast media seemed to focus more on the candidates rather than policy because in Australia, party politics criticise each other's leadership credentials and dig up personal information which may work against the leader of a party, rather than focusing on policies and the development of fresh and innovative thinking. Is that very democratic? Both major political parties, Liberal and Labor, have become very similar in their approach to politics, and so as a result the broadcast coverage has become less and less about policy. Anyway, this blog is not designed for a political debate...

JOURNALISM ISSUE ENTRY:

This chapter of "The Miracle" has highlighted one thing from the opening sentence (which just so happens to be the opening sentence):
Compared with print, television as a medium is warm, entertaining, and 'human' (p. 261).
As of much of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, this has been particularly true, with more and more people turning to the broadcast mediums for their news; i.e. 'the world's town crier'.
They do have advantages, they do have disadvantages [over print form]. I liked this summary about the broadcast medium approach towards error:
"If a radio or television reporter makes an on-air mistake it vanishes into the ether. If a web journalist makes an error, a story can be taken offline, corrected, and put back online. But if a newspaper reporter makes a mistake the consequences can be more serious and embarrassing" (p. 263).
The nature of print news, while providing more in-depth analysis on a topic than a broadcast medium can given the time constraints, its lack of flexibility can result in its ultimate downfall.
Plus, as pointed out in the chapter, audiences are easily bored, distracted or frustrated when watching news content. For example: "The average length of a streamed video news story segment on ABC Broadband in 2005 was just under 40 seconds. A television news story may have a 20-second minimum but a maximum of perhaps two minutes" (p. 263). That is the nature of the news today. I've come up with my own quip, which identifies the public's view on news access:
"Give it to me in 10, or forget it, then!" Pretty clever?
Oh, and another thing which this reading has made me continue wondering. Why do people listen to commercial radio stations?
They pump you full of ads, have constant mindless chatter and play terrible mainstream music...and when they do manage to jump on the bandwagon of, let's call it 'alternative' music, they repeat the songs non-stop and ruin their credibility!
My question to all of you radio listeners out there is: Why subject yourself to this, well, (there is no other word for it; TORTURE)?
Triple J all the way, baby!
Need I remind you that this is my blog, and I can say whatever I please? Because I'm going to anyway, and nobody will stop me or tell me otherwise of my firmly established stance on this!
However, on a more disappointing note, all you Triple J fans should read this ABC online article concerning this amazingly talented (not to mention utterly stunning!) TV/radio personality if you haven't already:



Follow the link:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2007/10/10/2055588.htm?section=justin

I think I've made my points on these issues clear! No further entries for this week.

Zeej McQueen out!

The Blog Before the Break ~ WEEK 11!

REPORTING FOR DUTY! CHAPTER 11 OF THE DAILY MIRACLE

But first, more of the antics from The Daily Bugle boss!



J. JONAH JAMESON QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

"Tell you what Addicus, you take the pictures, I'll make up the headlines! Ok? Is that ok with you?"

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR THIS EDITION OF ZEEJAY'S JOURNALISM JUNK! (The Daily Miracle, pp. 259-260).

1. I'd listen to the chief-of-staff, no question. If a policeman told me that nobody at the police station would speak to me again if the newspaper runs anything, regardless who writes it, suggests to me that they are blackmailing me and trying to cover something up. I'd go ahead and report that fact, as exposing the police corruption is of high public interest. Also, the fact that the young man who has been bashed has witnesses and a medical report is too hard to disregard for a quality news story! Bring down law abuse and corruption...it's what journalists do! Always have integrity in mind!

2. Would any readers of the newspaper really be interested in one woman stealing a pair of stockings? It's hardly newsworthy, and if she is so distraught that she is on the verge of suicide if the paper publishes anything, it's hardly worth the risk of someone losing their life for a bit of media coverage, regardless of the newspaper's policy of publishing such cases. Bottom line, I wouldn't bother revealing it! Keep in court.

3. Celebrities get themselves into trouble, they deal with it. They are in the public spotlight, and they are often role models to many who look up to them. They must learn to take responsibility for their own actions, just like the rest of us common folk. Too often they get off criminal charges too easily...just think of Paris Hilton! Like the old mantra goes, "If you can't do the time, don't commit the crime" (or something along those lines!). As tempting as it is, you should not take bribes from affluent, influential people, mainly because it may (more likely than not), come back to haunt you, your career and relationships. Journalistic integrity is HIGHLY important in the industry, and everyone entering the profession should have to swear an oath or pledge of allegiance to the media organisation. After all, there is always the MEAA Code of Ethics that all journalists must adhere to. They knew they were putting their career on the line when they indulged in the irresponsible behaviour, so it isn’t my problem. I'm just the middle media man that happened to be at the right place at the right time! But, this famous personality is VERY attractive you say...?

4. In this case, three words: Spill the beans! What do I have to lose if I expose these corrupt cops and jury members? It is in the public interest to know that these people are crooked and accept large bribes. Of course there is the matter of protecting my juror source in the high-profile murder trial who told me in the first place that there would be a hung jury and the bribery situation. Of course there would be more research to be done to confirm the source's claim is valid, but that goes without saying. If there is some sort of possibility, a journalist must always try and pursue it! Most of the time, what do they have to lose? These discussion questions make me wonder if they have been written based on situations that have occurred in a city rife with corruption and greed such as Gotham City.
And we all know what happens when people indulge in such activities there...this super detective finds them out:



If only he really existed and could sort out some people in need of the Bat treatment!

JOURNALISM ISSUE DISCUSSION:

The main message which seemed to illuminate from that chapter was journalists being informed about news and current affairs, as well as accumulating notes and ideas in what was dubbed an 'idea file' for possible future stories.
"A comprehensive contact book is frequently the difference between getting and missing the news" (The Daily Miracle, p. 235).
It is also strongly advisable for journalists to continually scan other news sources from other news organisations to be as informed as possible for the upcoming days events.
If journalists tend to not do this, a busy news day could turn out to be disastrous if they know very little of what's going on in the world! I found that to be an important point rose in this week's chapter.
Stress is also no stranger to journalists, and many cope differently with deadline pressures, which are constantly faced on a daily basis.
According to The Daily Miracle, "A journalist's honest mistake can be interpreted as an attempt to undermine someone's understanding. Some people cannot comprehend balanced reporting" (p. 237).
I had information on time management and the rounds system, but thanks to the wonderful internet and it's reliability, it crashed out on me, so all my thoughts which I had had on them are now gone and I will have to re-do them to the best of my ability...apologies folks!
Anyway, time management is a key strategy for any journalist daily. Some survival strategies may include ending an interview ahead of time, relying on the telephone much more for interviews, and relying much less on the sound recorder when taping other people as it is time-consuming to go back and forth searching for direct quotes! (p. 238).
Now, the rounds system just briefly. Many newspapers have rounds reporters, mainly covered by more experienced journalists in a specific 'area of expertise'. They can include:
-police
-courts
-education
-computer
-business
-social justice
-religion
-media
-arts & entertainment ... the list goes on!

As well as specialist reporters, most newspapers need general assignment journalists for daily events that do not fall into a specific rounds category (p. 240).

As for the trainee/junior journalists? These less experienced reporters do not usually get their own rounds unless they work at smaller newspapers. More often they do their first serious reporting as general-assignment reporters! (p. 240).
That'll do for this week's blogging!

This is Z.J Pink, signing off once again for Zeejay's Journalism Junk!!

!!! ~ HAVE A GREAT BREAK ~ !!!

The Story Factory - Week 10, Chapter 10!

As usual, by overwhelming popular public demand...



J. JONAH JAMESON QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

"Who is Spider-Man? He's a criminal that's who he is! A vigilante! A public menace! What's he doing on MY front page?"

Well you would know Jameson, if you were the half decent editor of The Daily Bugle that you're supposed to be! Perhaps if you paid any attention rather than barking orders all day, you would have some sort of say in what news stories your publication covers!
Now, onto this week's Discussion Questions, and I refer to you to The Daily Miracle, Chapter 10 p. 232:

1. I'd first question this 'confidential source what their reasoning is for requesting me to wait a day to write the story. Then I'd do my best to find out by monitoring other media organisations if they may have the story at all. I would definitely write it that day to the best of my ability, just so the story is out there, and perhaps if I get the chance, over the next few days, I'd do some more research and expand on the groundwork I'd already laid for the story. But, on the flipside, there's the issue of the confidentiality of the source...but going into that would be beyond the focus of this question!

2. The inside source which approached the media obviously knew that there was some element of risk involved, which could possibly include a loss of employment and therefore income, so their motive to expose the resort kitchen's lack of hygiene is clearly a high priority for public interest, otherwise they wouldn't have put themselves and their career at stake, so that part doesn't really concern me. Who knows how many more guests and staff may fall ill due to the current health and hygiene status, and so it is of upmost importance that the public be informed, even if the unfortunate outcome is the loss of 120 jobs and an increased income loss. This is a tough ethical issue, but it is the journalists' role to serve the public! Plus, there is the other side to the argument that if people were becoming ill due to the resort's poor health practices, it asks why hadn't any of the employees/staff come forward and told the honest truth in the interests of the general public?

3. Pardon the language, but I’d be very pissed off that I hadn't been informed earlier about the decision, especially because professionals like solicitors know that newspapers have strict deadlines they have to adhere to in order to get the published material out there, and I'm sure that there could have been more done to inform me sooner. Secondly, I'd want to talk to the journalist who left the court before the judge issued this 'order' prohibiting the publication of a defendant's name, and their reasoning for doing this. Was it their fault? Did they know that the court hearing wasn't over? I'd find this out. In the end, I would have to, to use the cliché, 'stop the presses' because legal action against defamation by far outweighs the possible chaos and confusion that will ensue in delaying the production process. Surely it will be inconvenient, and things may not be exactly on schedule, but that's the reality of news sometimes! AND, on top of that, I’d be very sceptical about my solicitor contact's apparent drunk state!

4. I would take both into account, but in the end, it is the editor and the media organisation that employs me to do my job, so I would have to listen to them and take his perspective rather than the police rounds reporter's angle. He may be more knowledgeable about the subject, but I have a duty to fulfil to the newspaper and media organisation I work for. I can take advice from the police, but when it all comes down to it, they can't necessarily influence a way a story is written once they have provided the information. On the same token, journalists can't take the law into their own hands and make suggestions as to what they would like to see changed in law enforcement and policing.

JOURNALISM ISSUE ENTRY:

The Story Factory was mainly informative about the structure and hierarchy of the newsroom. Of course there is no common, 'universal' structure, but all have one thing in common: DEADLINES.
They have to be met at all costs, and the news gathering process can often be very difficult!
There can be the issue of journalists receiving PR produced media releases and simply adapting them into a news story without any further thought of why the media release may have been sent, or practice of ethical journalism.
As per The Daily Miracle, former journalist and Sydney public relations executive Jim Macnamara surveyed journalists and editors in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Canberra and found that 86 per cent reported 'very frequent' contact from PR practitioners (p. 214).
In addition, a parallel survey by the same researcher found that 31 per cent of news stories in a range of media were based 'wholly or partly' on news releases.
Now, what else was newsworthy about this chapter???
Some of the questions that chief-of-staff ask of a reporter's stories were also very intriguing...certainly will give me an edge in the real world.
And in reading the descriptions of the various newsroom roles, I think I'd love to be Chief Sub Editor...mainly because I am so choice at making up awesome headlines.
Just thought I ought to share that with you!

This is Z.J Pink signing off for another outrageous edition of Zeejay's Journalism Junk !!!

Week the 9th: Interviewing & CAR

This week, what a treat...
Double the fun with two lots of textbook chapter readings! Be prepared to be enlightened about the world of journalism with the core skill of interviewing and Computer Assisted Reporting (CAR).

But first, as usual, it's time for everyone's favourite segment...



J. JONAH JAMESON QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

"What, is he shy? If we can get a picture of Julia Roberts in a thong, we can certainly get a picture of this weirdo!"

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. Which would you choose: a direct quotation that is accurate but unclear and embarrassing to the speaker, or one that is clear but is inexact and makes the speaker appear more eloquent than he or she really is?

The public is more concerned with receiving a message which is clear rather than something that is 100% accurate but hard to understand, so I'm going to have to go with the clear, inexact quotation. Accuracy is highly important in this situation, and it is the journalist's job to deliver this to the readership. In this case, I believe that readership ease takes priority. Plus, who am I to say how eloquent the interviewee is based on one direct quotation? It is instrumental in this situation to give your source a fair treatment to ensure a positive, mutual relationship is maintained, whilst at the same time satisfying your newspaper readership.

2. Is it ever justified for a journalist to intimidate a source with a threat of 'public exposure' to get important public information?

Yes, indeed! I believe that journalists should adhere to their job in endeavouring to serve the public to the best of their ability in getting the news out there, even if that means constantly probing for information, which would be hard to achieve via conventional research methods. Still, there is no need to dig so deep for information unless it is of high public interest! (Mainly because there is a great deal of effort and time involved in the information gathering process, especially interviewing people face to face!)

3. Is it a reasonable strategy for a journalist - male or female - to use 'personal chemistry' to get information from sources when there is public interest at stake?

This depends on the nature of the story's subject and how much the information is in the public interest! I suppose if other methods of extrapolating information are not working, then I see no problem in attempting to use these alternative methods such as 'personal chemistry' - when it all comes down to it, the relationship between the interviewer and interviewee can have unintentional chemical and physical components, even in the most formal and professional situations - it's just human nature!.

4. What potential dangers could come back to haunt a journalist who gets too close to a source?

To name a few:

- Significantly damaged reputation
- Decreased readership/viewership of a media organisation's various publications
- Losses of trust and respect in the journalism profession/field of work employers, fellow work colleagues, family and the general public
-Loss of job, family breakdowns etc
- Similar repercussions for the source's career, relationships, personal and public life
- Possible legal action for defamation charges and non-professional behaviour

5. Who is the most inarticulate, word-mangling public figure regularly in the news at present? Should you feel sorry for them and clean up their direct quotes or let them stew in their own frying pan?

That's easy. It'd have to be this man:



Quote: "Is our children learning?"
Quote: "They have mis-underestimated us"
Quote: "I'm the master of low expectations" (The Daily Miracle Ch 9, p. 205)

In Bush's case, since he is the President of the United States, there shouldn't be a reason to clean up his direct quotes, as one would assume that the leader of one of the most powerful nations on earth would be an articulate, well-spoken individual. But, sadly for Mr. Bush, this is not the case.
I feel some sympathy for him because of his lack of public speaking skills and therefore I would feel compelled to adjust minor grammatical errors, however if the quotes are anything like the aforementioned, they must be left untouched as to expose his somewhat 'unintelligence' for the good of public interest.

JOURNALISM ISSUE DISCUSSION:

Now, why is interviewing such a core skill? From reading Chapter 9 of The Daily Miracle, I gather that it is an essential skill that every journalist will have to use at various points in their careers. It's inevitable. I learnt that the key elements for a successful interview are:
-Good research/knowledge accumulation
-Listen intently
- Follow up any info that the interviewee gives ASAP with a related question

The Daily Miracle (Ch 9) provides a nice, concise quote on the interview as an information-gathering tool:
"The challenge is in ensuring fact, not prejudice, shapes the resulting story" (Ch 9. Interviewing, a core skill).

Securing the interview, it seems, can be hard, as the interviewee may have a hectic schedule to adhere to, and scarcely finds time to talk to the media. Any old excuses are fired at the reporter for why they may be unavailable, and it is the job of the journalist to be persistent in contacting them to arrange a suitable time for an interview. A journalist should ALWAYS have a backup plan in case an intended interviewee has failed to respond or return a call such as trying to reach them via alternative contact methods such as email or fax, try a third party such as friends, family or work colleagues, or even in exceptional circumstances of public interest, 'door stop' the interviewee. According to The Daily Miracle, it is more difficult to avoid people in person.

And another important thing. Appearances are not deceiving. It should not matter what a person looks like or how they dress, but it frequently does. People react consciously or subconsciously to all kinds of signals (Ch 9. p. 189). The expectation is that a journalist will blend into any crowd.

Although to me, the key to a successful interview was all in the section about non-verbal clues: i.e. body language. A journalist must learn to read the signs given by an interviewee, as they provide valuable hints as to if the information they are giving is valid, and whether the reporter needs to ask for any clarification or probe further for more in-depth analysis from the subject.

A good example of body language playing an important part in an interview is the recent Andrew Johns drug exposure, where Phil Gould interviewed Johns on Channel Nine's NRL Footy Show. John's body language gives both the interviewer an insight into Johns' own feelings on the subject, as well as assisting in what question(s) should be asked next. The audience can also identify certain emotions just by observing Johns' body language. The links for Part One & Two of the interview from You Tube are below:

Andrew Johns Ecstasy Interview - Part 1 of 2:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dF6wpyu4Vq4&mode=related&search=

Andrew Johns Ecstasy Interview - Part 2 of 2:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOJfZMUkx-4&mode=related&search=

COMPUTER ASSISTED REPORTING (CAR) Chapter 15.

The Discussion Questions for this chapter are very long-winded and complex, so to make life easier, I'll just refer you to The Daily Miracle, p. 368.

1. From my interview with The Newcastle Herald Journalist Ben Smee, he gave me some fantastic advice and told me to gain some experience in a small newspaper as you are given more responsibilities and gain skills you will use for your entire journalism career. Plus, it is a different experience living away from a predominately metro area, so I'd take that job versus the insecure, 6-month only city contract.

2. I would first question why it needs to be email and attempt to negotiate (a fairly empty cause when it comes to politicians). Then if she still persisted on using email, I would probably just end up going ahead with it, because having some factual information at all is better than having none for public interest. Sometimes you just have to accept sources won't always co-operate in the way you want them to every time. That's the reality of journalism and media.

3. Whilst plagiarism is a serious issue, it is hardly worth dobbing on someone and jeopardising their entire career, possibly putting a massive dent in future employment prospects and significantly affects their family and social life. I would keep it to myself at first, then approach my colleague at a suitable time and place and have a discussion with them about why they felt the need to plagiarise (all non-threatening of course!). Then perhaps if they know someone found them out, they won't do it again. I'd maybe even monitor their stories over time just to check and make sure that the stories they are producing are their own work. I'd only ever take the matter to the boss if:
a) It was a major, influential story of huge public interest, which has the potential to reach and affect many people (in my view)
b) He or she was a repeat offender, and my help couldn't go any further in assisting their dishonest journalism

4. However good information this unknown contact has, is it really worth risking my life to find out what he knows? How do I know he is not a criminal himself? I don't. And as the old journalism mantra goes, when in doubt, leave it out. 2am, alone at a bank of a river? Sounds very suspicious to me, like something out of a horror film before the murderer brutally kills me and dumps me in the nearby river. Dying for the cause of a good story that will never be published? No thankyou!

5. Like any web based material, check the referencing for source accuracy. If any of the quotes cannot be traced to a reliable source, "if in doubt, leave it out".

Well, you are probably sick of my opinions on discussion questions by now, so in the words of the coolest kid ever, Ferris Bueller:



Are you still here? It's over. Go home............GO!

Week 8, Ch 8...GREAT! Take the Power Back!

This week's reading was filled with an abundance of journalistic tips and tricks, which I found to be very interesting and helpful, and armed with these, I should be able to take the world upon my shoulders! (Or is that being a little too ambitious?)

J. Jonah Jameson Quote of the Week:


"I don't pay you to be a sensitive artist; I pay you because for some reason that psycho Spiderman will pose for you!"

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:

1. Which type of story would you rather do and why:

a. A 'paper chase' conducted entirely by computer and telephone that takes half the time it would have taken if you had left the office?
b. A 'paper chase' involving visits to half a dozen government offices and in-person interviews that put you under extreme deadline pressure?

I'd choose to take option b as many times as I could, as most of the time, traditional journalism 'field work' makes for better, more authentic and personal stories for the reader, not to mention an improved accuracy rate. I think it also gives the journalist a sense of personal satisfaction and ownership and pride over their work as they have actually gone out of their way and gathered their own information and compiled a story, all for the sake of their readers. However, whilst this would be my preferred option in most cases, I recognise that deadlines are usually very demanding on journalists, and they simply just don't have the time to undertake personal, investigative journalism. So, stuck in the office and glued to technological communication appears to be the cheaper, less time consuming alternative!

2. Would you be willing to pursue a corruption investigation or an investigation into organised crime if it included many unpaid hours of extra work and personal risk?

These 'ethical' questions always require a discussion of the many circumstances, which could be argued 'for' and 'against' the posed situation. For example, it would certainly be a rewarding process for the journalist to have exposed any major illegal activity, which may be occurring in a community, as it could prove to be a solid reputation builder, and earn the respect of many other journalists and media organisations. On the contrary, if the journalist had a family and was trying to make money to put food on the table it wouldn't be an ideal situation in working for many unpaid hours whilst putting his or herself at risk, plus any family members and/or relatives which may be connected. These are just two hypothetical scenarios, which have many problems and solutions. There is so much potential for further 'discussion'.

3. Would you be willing to act together as a unit with competing reporters at a media conference in an effort to get maximum information if it meant giving up your best question, which you had intended to ask privately after the conference?

No. I this case I would rather work independently as I am employed with one particular news organisation/media outlet, and whatever information I get on my own will be what sells the papers. If I worked with other reporters to try and get more info, what inclination would a reader have to buy one publication over another? It comes down to exclusives, the depth of information gathering and sources, as well as reporting style, and in this case I believe I have a duty to be true to my employer to avoid uniformity, and create a story, which will maximise profits!

4. Who really owns government-held information: the government or the people? Why?
Supposedly we the people own it, however the government goes to great lengths to ensure it is increasingly difficult for the general public, journalists and other media to access it, especially if it is critical of any particular political governing body or party. An example in The Daily Miracle details how The Courier Mail sought elusive 1994 ministerial briefing papers from the State Government under FoI. Ministers were so desperate to keep the information away from the media, and hence electors, that the documents were bundled up and flown from Brisbane to Mt. Isa so they could be 'presented' at a Cabinet meeting being held in that remote city (p. 179)
Seems like the old censorship days of a totalitarian government in WW2. But, Australia compares to other countries such as Sweden, the US and Canada as having much tougher rules and regulations when it comes to FoI. But I don't know why!

5. If you were assigned to report on the proceedings of a conference and you had to choose between attending different sessions being conducted at the same time, how would you decide which to attend?

I would use my journalistic instincts and determine which session would be more newsworthy for my particular publication's target audience. Because in the end, it is them who you are writing for!!!

THIS WEEK'S JOURNALISM ISSUE ENTRY:

It is obvious to me, from engaging with these readings, that the nature of journalism is rapidly changing in the 21st century. One would think that technology has helped in most cases, especially with communication, with its high speed sophisticated set-ups. But even with the most high tech-equipment and up to date systems, the technological revolution can be its own worst enemy. Now, this was one theme, which ran through my Extension English course in high school, all of the texts seemed to have a common theme of dissatisfaction and reluctance to the industrial revolution. Mary Shelley predicted it in her acclaimed novel "Frankenstein" and Fritz Lang's famous German Expressionist film "Metropolis" depicted the working class man falling victim to the capitalist machine! Now these are all pro-communist/union ideals, but with this 'quick fix' news mentality filtering into the media's psyche, are we, the audience of the paper for whom the journalist writes, destined for uniformity and mediocre standards from the printers, just because journalists are too 'flat out' to go out investigating and write a real, polished story based on facts which they have themselves gathered? I should certainly hope not!

Rage Against the Machine, one of the greatest musical advocates of justice and human rights of our time, hits the nail on the head when it comes to the society we live in, and the information we are fed by the media and government organisations...and they are right, we've got to "Take the Power Back!"



The present curriculum
I put my fist in 'em
Eurocentric every last one of 'em
See right through the red, white and blue disguise
With lecture I puncture the structure of lies
Installed in our minds and attempting
To hold us back
We've got to take it back
Holes in our spirit causin' tears and fears
One-sided stories for years and years and years
I'm inferior? Who's inferior?
Yeah, we need to check the interior
Of the system that cares about only one culture
And that is why
We gotta take the power back

A word's worth of Week 7: Chapter 7!

J. Jonah Jameson Quote of the Week:

"Put it out on the front page: Cash money for pictures of Spiderman! If he doesn't want to be famous...then I'll make him infamous!"

Some discussion questions:

1. At what educational level of readers should newspapers be aiming? Do you think your main metropolitan newspaper is hitting the mark? Why or why not?

This is not a simple straightforward question, as there are myriad papers that write for a number of different audiences, all of which have different agendas in mind. Broadsheets tend to appeal more to those who wish to read a more in depth, analytical perspective of a particular news story, whereas tabloid readers' audiences like to receive their news in a small, 'bite sized' format, which allows them to skim the newspapers in order to get a good idea of the essential facts. Our main metropolitan newspaper is The Sydney Morning Herald, and it is a broadsheet aimed at the so called 'elite educated' population. It's style and structure certainly reaches this desired educational level.

2. To what extent do you think reporters should be able to interpret news events and inject their thoughts into news stories?

As much as news writing strives to be objectified in its approach, there will always be a personal element from the reporter incorporated into the story, whether it is consciously or subconsciously. As Chapter 7 indicates, in terms of the search for accuracy, "a two-pronged approach can be taken" (The Daily Miracle, p. 159). First, facts are obtained. Then opinions, or interpretations of those facts, are sought. Those quick with opinions should be asked for facts on which the opinions are based. This will strengthen a story and provide the reader with more information on which to judge the validity of opinions espoused (p. 159). The Daily Miracle also states that in this process, journalists will have to make their own judgements and interpretations of the facts and opinions they have gathered. Due to legal reasons, there are cases where reporters are entitled to provide interpretation for the readers to defend defamation action. They must ensure the interpretation is based on clearly stated facts so that the readers can assess the basis for the interpretation. The best advice in these ethical situations comes in the form of an old adage in journalism:
'If in doubt, leave it out'.
However, in my humble opinion, reporters should aim to tell their readers what to think about, not what to think!

3. English is a growing and ever-changing language as new words evolve and old ones fall into disuse. What then of the idea of a global language? Does it really matter that our language is being tainted with Americanisms and US spellings?

Not particularly. Given the dynamic nature of the English language, which borrows words and phrases from multiple languages such as French, Italian, German and Spanish, words that have a few letters difference in spelling isn't going to have a huge impact. Anyway, most of the time the US spelling of words are phonetically correct, so if anything, it could be a good thing for their infiltration. To give a simple analogy, the English language can be compared to the religious belief system of Christianity. There are many denominations/variations of it, however it is essentially communicating the same common message. In terms of a global language? There is way too much territory to cover with that, but I don't think that it is necessary to push for the globalisation process any more than is already occurring - do we really want uniformity to be here sooner than expected?

4. Based on your own experience and your reading of newspapers, do you think newspapers have a serious commitment to accuracy?

Given the time pressures that newspapers are under to get the news out to the public as quickly as possible, I commend the overall accuracy in which they strive towards, and most of the time achieves. Of course there are times when papers make errors, however my experience with them has been that they are mostly spelling mistakes; factual errors have a lot more impact, and I have encountered a few, mostly in tabloid newspapers. On the whole, their commitment to accuracy is significantly upheld with integrity.

5. What would you do if you made a serious mistake in a story you wrote but no one contacted the paper to complain?

I'd feel obligated to correct my error, just in case it was later discovered and legal and ethical ramifications ensued. More importantly than this, my reader loyalty would be in jeopardy if I didn't admit to making a mistake, which could have long term ethical and economical effects for me the reporter, the newspaper and even the whole news organisation. Admitting is the first step to fixing, and profit isn't always the central motive for news corporations. Without the readers, the whole newspaper process is redundant. It is an important two-way communicative relationship!

JOURNALISM ISSUE ENTRY OF THE WEEK:

From the textbook chapter reading this week, I have learnt several key points about the importance of style, structure and accuracy in journalism.
According to The Daily Miracle, there is a common misconception amongst news writing that stories that are easy to read may appear to have been easy to write. Some may think this means that the more complex the writing, the deeper the thought required. In each case, the opposite is true (p. 142).
It is often harder to omit detail and make a story simpler than it is to add more words. News must be written in a clear and concise manner, no matter what the publication. Another assumption is that the story must be short and simple, with few ideas conveyed in each paragraph. However, it is important as a reporter to establish a specific style in which to write, and stick to that.
Balance in a story's length and structure needs to be maintained, and it doesn't always have to be consistent. A good solid intro always reels a reader in!
Always understand the content of your own work, and don't try and simplify something that doesn't make sense to you first. If it is instrumental to the story, always be assertive and ask questions until you have the required information, clear and to the point.
An important point which also needs to be stressed is the fact that journalists need to 'know their audience'; i.e. having a sense of the 'invisible masses' and what appeals to them, as well as the newspapers market and demographics.
Writing mechanics and expressive skills are pivotal, and all of this links back to the three fundamental rules for reporters as advised by Joseph Pulitzer (after whom the Pulitzer Prize for excellence in journalism in the U.S was named):

ACCURACY, ACCURACY, ACCURACY!!!

The Inverted Blog (Week 6)

JOURNALISM ISSUE ENTRY:

This week's topic was particularly intriguing, as it was to do with the famous (or infamous) inverted pyramid. It explained how this structure has become the most commonly adopted structure for journalists, and has stood the test of time in print journalism. This is mainly due to the nature of the readership in a modern context, in that people are always busy, and in their frantic, fast paced lives, there is little time to catch-up on the news and current affairs. So, what this model does is place the most important information at the top, and then in descending order to least important. However, there are flaws in this structure, as Chapter 6 of The Daily Miracle points out i.e. the geometry of the pyramid suggests that a great deal of info is placed at the top and gradually winds down, whereas the short and succinct most important info is in the prime position. There ARE alternatives to the inverted pyramid, which can work if written skilfully, however in most instances of 'hard news,' it is, arguably, the most effective.

Now, as usual:

J. Jonah Jameson Quote of the week:

"Hoffmann! Call the patent office, copyright the name Green Goblin, I want a quarter every time someone says it"

1. Would you include balancing comment (in the form of a source's statement) in a story if you knew that the statement was untrue but could not say so or prove that it was untrue, and the source insisted that the comment be included?

First I'd negotiate with the source, and ask them to explain exactly why they want the inclusion of the comment in the story, and if it will enhance their argument at all. I'd then interrogate them about the credibility of the statement, asking them to provide evidence that their claim is correct and true, and listen carefully for any Freudian slips, which may occur in the information they are giving me which counteracts and/or counterbalances the information I already have. After all that, if I still couldn't manage to get the truth out of them, I’d then include the comment as requested by the source, but take extra special care in the wording of my report so as to not give the reader false information, using terms such as "alleged" "believed to be" etc. In the end, though, it all depends who the source is and the authority/reliability they have on the given situation.

2. Because you could not locate a source for balancing comment, would you withhold a story on which you have worked hard? Would your decision change if you knew that an opposing newspaper was planning to run a similar story, reducing the value of your effort?

I think, as disappointing as it may be, sometimes journalists will have to sacrifice their efforts on major stories in order to maintain their reputation and integrity. As for another newspaper running a similar story, this would make it a more difficult decision. However, I'm sure that one incident where a journalist declines to run a big story based primarily on ethical grounds, will look much better in the public eye in the future, than a story than is published which only outlines one perspective, potentially tarnishing the reputation of the journalist and the newspaper.

3. You are sent to report from the scene of a major uncontrolled fire in a high-rise building. People are trapped inside. What dangers should you look out for? Who would you interview? When would you start writing your story?

I'd essentially take the approach as outlined in Chapter 6 of the textbook.
"When arriving at the scene of a breaking story, a good journalist will not rush in and try to get as close as possible to the heart of the action. They will approach slowly, taking time to survey the incident - looking for potential dangers and threats to their own safety while getting a clear overview of the situation, something which will help them greatly when they write their article" (The Daily Miracle Chapter 6: Upside-down pyramids p. 129).

I'd make notes about the scene; people nearby who witnessed it go up in flames and other emergency personnel. Sources must later be cross-checked for credibility, especially witnesses.
The Daily Miracle says that:
Ultimately, the reporter will be faced with a bundle of notes in random sequence that might include interview responses from:
The fire chief, three fire fighters, four citizen witnesses, owners of the building, tenants of the building, two ambulance officers, three police officers, a hospital matron, council building inspector, owners of adjoining businesses. The resulting story could begin with a summary intro that highlights the most dramatic elements (Ch 6: p. 130).

4. From your reading of news stories, do you think the inverted pyramid remains the most effective method of structuring material?

It certainly remains the most commonly used in the mainstream media to cater for it audience's busy lifestyles. However it doesn't make sense, from a story telling point of view, to include the "explosive details" at the beginning of the article, only to sacrifice the rest of your efforts in writing the story when people skim the paper. But, that's the nature of contemporary journalism for you!
I'll conclude with some words of advice on the inverted pyramid structure from The Newcastle Herald journalist Ben Smee whom I recently interviewed.
I asked the following question: In terms of the ‘inverted pyramid’ structure, do you always write in this style for ‘hard news’ stories, or are there times when it isn’t appropriate?

It often depends on the story. I have to admit that I don’t necessarily think about the inverted pyramid when I’m writing a story. A fluid, catchy intro always works better than one that struggles to take in as much information as possible. With human-interest stories, I’d hardly ever write like that, but the nature of hard news is that you do tend to put the best and most explosive information at the top of the story.

Chapter 5, Week 5...HIGH FIVE!

First and formost, as promised:

J. Jonah Jameson Quote of the Week:

"No jobs. Freelance! Best thing in the world for a kid your age. If you bring me some more shots of that newspaper selling clown, maybe I'll take him off your hands! But I never said you had a job!"

This week taught me one of the most pivotal aspects of journalism, the importance of intro or "the reporter's handshake". In short, no solid intro, no readership. In this modern world we live in, people have little time to deal with stories that don't deliver the summary of a story in a nutshell.

1. What sections of a newspaper do you read and why?

It all depends what paper I am reading, but the two main papers I read are The Sydney Morning Herald (SMH) and The Newcastle Herald (NH).

In the SMH (I tend to only read the weekend edition), I will read the main news section and the news review to get a brief overview of current affairs, and I enjoy the opinion columns from journalists such as Mike Carlton and The Chaser headlines as a humorous perspective on current events. Occasionally I will read a few of the letters to the editor to see what Joe Citizen has got to say. I also read the 'Good Weekend' magazine insert if there is anything in it that strikes my fancy (especially music, movies, gadgets and high profile personality features) and the Sports section to catchup on the latest NRL action. I used to always read the 'Icon' section which dealt with the latest technology advancements until they moved it to Monday's publication, obviously to increase readership on the 'slow news day' of the week.

For the NH, I will predominately be drawn to the Sports section as the paper caters for its local readership's passion for sport, and therefore it is always featured prominately and covered extensively. Entertainment news is also a reason for reading and finding out about the latest local talent and international news in the industry. Local news articles are also a section in which I pay a great deal of attention to when I get spare time to read it! When my Grandad drops the paper off each afternoon when he is finished with it, that's the best time to consult the day's events according to The Herald!

2. How much time do you spend a day watching television compared with reading? What would encourage you to spend more time reading your local paper?

If it isn't a good espisode of The Simpsons, I'll generally watch the NBN evening news, the 7 o'clock ABC bulletin, and sometimes if I can, I'll watch the 9:30pm SBS world news Australia news to get a broad, sense of global news which isn't covered in the other forms. Compared to reading The Herald, I'd say I watch more T.V, however I do tend to read the paper in the afternoon after uni if it is lying around, or the previous day's paper also makes good reading over breakfast the next morning (and often that cycle seems to be frequent in my newspaper reading). There is nothing particularly wrong with the format or content of the paper, it's just mainly time constraints with other commitments, and, to be quite honest, sitting in front of the telly having the news delivered to you with ease of an evening is a preferred method in obtaining current affairs information, hassle free. Having said this though, I wouldn't mind some increased coverage on new technology, gadgets, gizmos and video games as this is an area which particularly interets me (like SMH's Icon section, now within the inconvenient Monday edition of the paper!) However, as I recently conducted an interview with Herald journalist Ben Smee, I thought that including his viewpoint on the future of print news and the expansion of alternative mediums as a way to obtain news was quite interesting, and in my humble opinion, particularly true.

"I think they are [taking over] to an extent, but newspapers won't die, simply because print breaks about 95% of all big news stories. I think television and radio are under greater threat, as their news relies too much on being timely."

"Print journalists play a much greater role in researching and breaking news and driving the news agenda. Electronic media tends to focus on what happens on the surface, but relies on print to dedicate resources to digging up the big stories."

3. You have the perfect opportunity to write a 'trick intro' that will get most readers at least into your second paragraph. But it would be at the expense of the central news value, which isn't very strong anyway. What will you do?

First off, is it a 'hard news story'? Because if it is, then I'd be sceptical in using this approach as a large number of readers are impatient and irritated easily. Also, is it THAT necessary, especially when it will get most readers at least to the second paragraph? Why not just implement another intro strategy which will be guaranteed a bigger and better audience response, for example the good ol' direct, conservative approach? It might be boring, but gets the job done! I'd only write a 'trick intro' when I was positive that it would work i.e. appropriate to the target audience and section of the paper/style of writing. No further questions.

4. You have done your research and conducted your interviews and have the basis of a great story but the intro just won't gel. What do you do?

If I was me (a journalist in the future) I'd jump into the TARDIS, go back to the time when I was in my first year at uni and re-read that chapter which dealt with effective strategies for writing intros! However this would involve the presence of Dr. Who, and a time machine police box, which I'm quite sure is only located in England, so maybe not!
In this instance, the most effective strategy to combat this writer's block would be the over-the-fence technique, which put simply, is to "think of how you might summarise the material if you were telling a neighbour about the story" (The Daily Miracle, Ch 5: The lead: will the reader follow? p. 117). How would you explain the story verbally in its simplest form to the person over the back fence?
Alternatively, in any medium, the most effective means of communication is to 'tell a story'. A story's essential ingredients should be evident from the beginning (Ch 5: p. 118)
Last, but definitely not least, the golden rule of journalism: keep it short, keep it simple!!! (Ch 5: p. 116)

5. You have written a well-researched story but when it appears in the paper you see that a sub-editor who thought they knew more about the topic than you did has added a new intro which is not only wrong, but ruins the whole article and offends your sources. What should you do?

Declare all out guerrilla warfare in the office building, targeting the sub editor's office. But if recruitment numbers are low, I guess it'll just have to be some good old fashioned negotiating! I'd approach him or her and state my case, and have some material proof that my sources were offended, and the amount of reparations that need to be made. I'd then call my sources, apologise for any offence that may have been caused by this incident. However, that being said, I'm not sure if i'd still have a job if I stood up to my sub-editor like that. It all depends if I have a legitimate case! This is a very tricky, professional ethical situation, and that's about all I can conclude on the matter.

This is Zeej McQueen reporting, for Journalism Junk. Goodnight.

Bringing it back...

Now, considering journalism is all about new information and currency, I'd probably be out of a job if this blog were committed to the contemporary!

However, I'm working on it!

My boss would probably end up being like this stressed media mogul:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqU-gV4QaiQ

And I thought as a recurring gag for my journalism blog, I could include a humorous quote from the head of The Daily Bugle (Spiderman), J. Jonah Jameson. Enjoy!

J. Jonah Jameson Quote of the Week:

"Now, get your pretty little portfolio off my desk before I go into a diabetic coma"

Chapter 4: A 'know' for news

1. How did Australian news outlets give proximity to the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami?

The news outlets ran prominent news segments on the natural disaster, taking high priority on evening news bulletins and other such media forms. According to The Daily Miracle, some of the devastated areas, particularly the waterfront tourist areas of western Thailand, were favourite holiday destinations for many Australians (Ch 4: A 'know' for news; p.85). Tragically, some Australian citizens died in the disaster, and so the proximity that the media outlets gave created a highly empathetical response in Australia, a nation whose population is clustered around its often low-lying coastline and a nation neighbouring the worst hit nation, Indonesia (Ch 4: p.85). This in turn sparked rigorous conversation for a long period of time after the event amongst citizens and prominent figures in politics, environmental organisations and other non-profit institutions such as the Red Cross who aimed to organise an effective plan of relief to the devastated countries. It united a nation in sympathy for the victims and their families (Ch 4: p.85).

2. If you were a reporter covering a story about a mentally ill Australian woman who was found by Queensland police in Cairns talking what they thought was German, who was subsequently arrested and found herself locked up in an immigration detention centre in S.A for 10 months, what main news value would you focus on when writing the story? In order of importance, what would be the next two subsidiary news values?

I would place the news value of impact as my first priority, as a story like this one has the potential to have a significant impact on people's lives, especially on a local scale. Firstly, the citizens of South Australia would be concerned about the treatment of the prisoner, which is occurring in their state. On a local and national level, however, the majority of Australians would be questioning the ethical considerations of imprisoning someone who is mentally ill and is not able to speak English. The decision to punish the woman would most likely be a government judgement, and the media tend to cover federal, state and local governments because their decisions have great impact on people's lives. Different people will be affected in different ways on different scales.
Secondly, I would focus on human interest, because frequently the human-interest news value 'tugs at heartstrings’. It can inspire empathy, spark curiosity, or arouse community concern (Ch 4: p.96). It can often support a 'straight' news story, in that it will give a human element to the issue being reported, in this instance, the story could reinforce an inquiry about the treatment of detainees in Australian detention centres.
Thirdly, depending on the publication, proximity would be relevant if the detention centre was located in a small suburb, and a local paper was reporting the story

3. As a reporter, which information would you feature more prominently?
a) A mayoral announcement about an urban renewal plan to resolve inner-city crime problems; or
b) A comment by Prince Charles, in Australia on a visit, who says after the mayor's speech that such problems can often be attributed to building regulations formulated by city councils?

Although the mayor is of more political authority, I would feature Prince Charles' comment after the mayor's speech, primarily due to the fact that he is a much more highly recognisable figure on an international scale. This is giving priority to the news value of prominence. This would be an ideal lead into the story for the reader, as it would grab and maintain their interest to continue reading. You could then go on to elaborate about the detail of the mayor's speech.

4. Define 'news' in 20 words or less
Current information relating to particular persons, institutions or events previously unknown; can be of local, national or global significance.

5. Should Kipling's Six Strong Serving Men be assigned equal value when writing a news article?

Yes, they should be assigned equal value, however in different stages. The who, what, when and where are the key details for the lead, the why and how can come later in the report.

JOURNALISM ISSUE ENTRY:

I'll keep it brief this week, to relieve anyone who happens to be reading my blog and had to wade through all the aforementioned!
Most obviously, the key issue that interested me from reading Chapter 4: A 'know' for news in The Daily Miracle, was the importance of news values and how they are highly relevant in contemporary reporting. It is crucial that a journalist knows when to privilege each one, and how to go about it. More specifically, however, I found the newspaper audience demographic to be quite intriguing. Declines in readers, according to the research, can be attributed to a number of factors such as the modern busy lifestyles, the decrease in 'hard' news stories and increase in 'soft' 'infotainment' style journalism. More young people are not sourcing their news from newspapers as they seem to lack any lasting appeal, and are turning to the new media market online as it is said to be quicker, convenient and, quite simply, more modern and appealing. This blog is an example of this new technology, and it's widely accessible to anyone who is savvy enough! Are you getting your information from Chapter 4 of The Daily Miracle from my own thoughts and reflections on this blog? Quite interesting, philosophical stuff! If newspapers are to continue to compete with this contemporary, dynamic society, they need to examine their audience and ask the hard questions: Should the media mirror society so that society, seeing its own defects, can 'heal itself'? Should the media give the public what it wants - or says what it wants - or give it what the media believes it needs?


Thankyou for your time in reading my blog entry!

Workshop Number One Fun!

Discussion Questions (assigned on 23.7.07):

1. Which media function do you think is most important and why?

To put it simply, I'd have to say that the accurate representational slogan of Rupert Murdoch's Fox News, "Fair and Balanced" (on which it prides itself on being), is the most important media function. It is the role of the journalist to be, despite postmodern thought and recent philosophical arguements on the issue of truth, to report an accurate and balanced representation of a given event or current affair as objectively as possible, so as to allow the responder to the story formulate their own opinion based on their own personal values and attitudes.

2. To what degree should journalists be concerned about their employer's profitability and readership/viewership figures?

This, I believe, is a very tricky ethical situation which is important to discuss and have a broad knowledge of, especially in today's society where advertising is the driving force behind much of the reported news and current affairs through a variety of different mediums. In fact, through my studies, I have even come across some theories that such news and current affairs shows apparent purpose of informing and educating the viewer isn't the main driving force; it is simply a 'fill in' for advertisements which clearly dominate prime time slots, driven by profit, chasing ratings and viewership figures. On the contrary, the journalist should acknowledge this and develop strategies by which to be respectful, and not fall victim to the mass media machine which attempts to manipulate on a large scale basis. The other flip side is of course, that your employer is paying you via this crucial funding from such corporate advertisers, so there is a certain trade off or sacrifice that many journalists have to assess in their careers!

3. Is it reasonable for the owner of a media outlet to direct editorial policy and to make editorial decisions on political and other issues?

Any media outlet shouldn't favour any particular party in any organisation, whether it be political, social or cultural. Of course they should provide both sides of an arguement or point of view, and again, it is entirely up to the responder to formulate their own opinions based on the 'facts' given to them. There have been bias allegations against certain media outlets that I know of, and that is why there are watchdogs to monitor the issue. Although it doesn't help that in Australia, most major news corporations are owned by so few organisations which dominate the media landscape, and hence diversity can be significantly hindered at times! Luckily for the general public there are programs such as Media Watch and the Chaser's War on Everything to point out and make light hearted comments and satirise such issues that arise in the popular media!

4. Does investigative journalism really matter? Does it sell newspapers or increase ratings?

Consumers of such a vast tapestry of media, whether it be newspaper, radio, online, television broadcast, are all seeking the best possible, and most reliable angle to a story as told by a journalist, and so one who has gone out of their way to present myriad perspectives from a variety of sources is immediately appealing to the general public. With a generation that has developed an overall distrust and distaste of journalists, and the emergence of the 'stereotype' which has proven an ongoing problem over time, people will most definitely give preference over, in this case, and investigative journalist, than one who has simply appeared to sensationalise the issue with minimal fact, more fiction! And so, in my humble opinion, it does sell newspapers, and hence increase ratings = $$ PROFIT $$

5. Discussion of dilemma:

I've decided the best approach is a for/against method, as there is no immediate, obvious answer to this problem:

FOR (Publishing the Story):
- basic journalist ethic (newspaper has policy of recording all such convictions)
- the public want the truth, not some obscured 'fact'
- why publish a story about my own son regarding the same issue (drink driving), and hide an identical case? Is anyone/anything sacred?
- money and profits certainly isn't what it's all about when it comes down to it - many other advertisers out there that would be willing to fund the newspaper

AGAINST: (Not publishing story):
- lack of funds = possible closure of paper or retrenchment of several editorial and print-room staff
- your personal reputation and job is on the line as it is your responsibility/decision alone (future job prospects?)
- if it isn't published, it could be uncovered in the future and create even more controversy than if it was published in the first place; reputation of many people significantly tarnished (perhaps permanent); even heavy fines for such a scandal!

Hope you've enjoyed my insights!! :-)