Licensing journalists would be difficult to do, and the rules would be tough to enforce – and wouldn’t prevent anyone with a smart phone from disseminating false information online.
Journalists face psychological trauma from producing news even when they are distant from the scene of violent incidents. What can news organizations do?
In an age of post-truth, liars and media conglomerates, there are still examples of the press using their power to make social change. We should encourage such work.
The Walkley Award’s decision to axe the award for international reporting comes at a time when the skills and roles of international journalists are under threat from a changing media landscape.
Students in high school now will be eligible to vote during the 2020 election cycle. How can we prepare them to become informed citizens in an era of misinformation, where anyone can publish anything?
Tax deductibility for donations to non-profit journalism centres in the United States have invigorated quality journalism. This same model could help Australian journalism.
Margot Susca, American University School of Communication
American citizens have long favored government openness over secrecy. But with heightened anti-leak and anti-press rhetoric, do some now want strengthened government control of information?
Public interest journalism exposes corruption and wrongdoers, and holds the powerful to account. But it is increasingly under threat, and we need to find ways to protect it.
When given leaked information journalists should check the information, consider alternative explanations, consider the political context and allow the people implicated a proper chance to respond.
Comments sections may be scary places for reporters but, as the experience of one Slovak daily shows, when journalists engage with readers, it makes for better news.
Lindsay Grace, American University School of Communication
Readers read, viewers watch and players do. That level of engagement gives games real power to influence people both within and outside the play itself.