Investigative Journalism IR,PPt1b

Higher level of journalism skills (investigative journalism) OUR AIM Quality news Higher level of journalism skills (investigative journalism) Replication IR,PPt1b

Investigative reporting is “fine dining journalism.” Is every journalist an investigative journalist? Choose the best answer: Every journalist is an investigative journalist Every journalist should be an investigative journalist Every journalist can be an investigative journalist IR,PPt1b

X “Every journalist is an investigative journalist.” The statement is untrue. Many journalists are like secretaries. They attend meetings, write on a notepad or tape proceedings and then turn their material into news. That is not investigation. That is beat reporting. In other words, beat reporters normally follow other people’s agenda. IR,PPt1b

X “Every journalist should be an investigative journalist.” Probably not. Some reporters need to keep an eye on the beats and other important stories that do not need much investigation. IR,PPt1b

“Every journalist can be an investigative journalist.” Vital traits of an investigative journalist Intense curiosity about how the world works—or fails to work Skepticism stopping short of cynicism or nihilism Undying outrage (passion) that expresses itself through “comforting the afflicted and afflicting the comfortable” IR,PPt1b

A tentative definition (subscribed to by many members of the Investigative Reporters and Editors Inc.) Investigative journalism: “The reporting, through one’s own initiative and work product, of matters of importance to readers, viewers or listeners. In many cases, the subjects of the reporting wish the matters under scrutiny to remain undisclosed.” IR,PPt1b

A more expansive view Investigative journalism is “not so much catching the politician with his pants down…” as it is digging “beneath the surface so we can help readers (listeners and viewers) understand what’s going on in an increasingly complex world.” Editor Gene Roberts IR,PPt1b

“Thumbs” Old ways are generally more comfortable But a new way can become a habit IR,PPt1b

Watchdog Role “Watchdog” - Has the Vanuatu media been performing their watchdog role? How? Is there a need to develop/nurture the watchdog culture? If yes, how? Are there obstacles? List down. IR,PPt1b