Citizen Journalism and Ethics What is Citizen Journalism and what are its benefits for the Church and dangers

The concept of citizen journalism is based upon public citizens "playing an active role in the process of collecting, reporting, analyzing, and disseminating news and information.“ "When the people formerly known as the audience employ the press tools they have in their possession to inform one another.”

Citizen journalism is a specific form of both citizen media and user generated content. It fulfils the qualities of civic mindedness and social responsibility by a citizen.

New media technology, such as social networking and media-sharing websites, in addition to the increasing prevalence of cellular telephones, have made citizen journalism more accessible to people worldwide. Due to the availability of technology, citizens often can report breaking news more quickly than traditional media reporters.

What gave rise to citizen Journalism Open publishing – new media, social media Collaborative nature – forums and blogs Distributed content – easy access & distribution

Open Publishing People without professional journalism training can use the tools of modern technology. Facebook Youtube Other social platforms

Collaboration with others Online Forums Blogs Comments and responses Collaborative groups Lobby on selective issues

Distributed Contents Views and opinions on topics close to you Photo of events to provide a pictorial view Video sharing using a number of free channels

Citizen Journalism Catagories Audience Participation – comments, blogs, photos, videos, local news Independent news and information Websites Collaborative and contributory media sites Other kinds of "thin media" (mailing lists, email newsletters) Personal broadcasting sites – webradio

Value added Journaism "Throughout the Arab world, citizen journalists have emerged as the vanguard of new social movements dedicated to promoting human rights and democratic values."  A threat to established press by the speed with which news is reported and delivered by citizen journalism

Now there is Live Streaming – Another citizen journalism tool Live streaming removes filters and forces attention There is no censorship or control It removes any journalistic boundaries May upset people Is direct from news to public – so could be dangerous Here’s what CNN says on this issue

Code of Ethics for Journalism Seek Truth and Report it – accurately - responsibly - provide context – do not misrepresent - provide any updates - keep promises - consider sources motives, security - give voice to voiceless - provide access to source material if relevant - avoid stereotyping - never distort facts or context - never plagiarise – always attribute http://www.spj.org/ethicscode.asp

Code of Ethics for Journalism Minimize harm - balance public’s need for information and potential harm - show compassion to those affected - recognise legal access and ethical justification - respect privacy and confidentiality - balance between public rights to know and a fair trial - consider long term implications Act independently - avoid conflict of interest - refuse gifts, special treatment or favours which may compromise integrity and damage credibility - distinguish news from advertisement

Code of Ethics for Journalism Be accountable and transparent - explain ethical choices to audience - respond to questions with accuracy, clarity & fairness - acknowledge mistakes and correct them - expose unethical conduct - abide by high standards that you expect from others http://www.spj.org/ethicscode.asp

So What does it mean for us as Christians Share the good news of Jesus Christ on social media Interact with youth as this media will reach them Use pictures and videos Tell the story of God’s work in your life Make it personal – your own stories Dialogue with people using new/social media Make the most of free channels available to us Some tips of how to share your story

So what can you share? Make your own text, pictures or videos Use your mobile phone to create contents And use it to share with others Or use one from the internet ...like this

THANK YOU ANY QUESTIONS ????