Journalism has undergone significant transformations in recent years, primarily driven by the digital revolution. The rise of social media and increased public access to information has brought new challenges and opportunities for journalists. Post COVID there are several changes visible in the society.
1. Data Journalism
Data journalism is new term coined these days is the use of data analysis, visualization, and other techniques to uncover newsworthy stories. With the increasing availability of data on different topics, data journalism has become a popular trend among journalists. By using data and visualization tools, journalists can identify trends and patterns in various fields such as finance, healthcare, and politics.
Data journalism also enables journalists to verify facts and figures. To present complicated information in an understandable way this is very useful technique. However, data journalism requires specialized skills and resources. Despite these challenges, data journalism is a growing trend and no doubt the future of journalism.
2. Mobile Journalism
Mobile journalism aka MoJo, is the practice of using mobile devices including smart phones and tablets, to create and distribute news content. With the growth of social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Periscope, MoJo has become a popular way of reaching audiences who prefer to consume news on mobile devices. MoJo allows journalists to break the news then and there. However, the ease and accessibility of mobile technology also raises ethical concerns about the veracity and accuracy of the information shared on social media. but, this can be take care of with the sense of responsibility.
3. Virtual and Augmented Reality
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) have become increasingly popular in the journalism industry, providing immersive experiences for audiences. VR and AR technology enable journalists to create immersive 360-degree videos and virtual reality experiences that transport viewers to different locations. In several media houses AR is in practice with malafide intention, hence this is also emerging as a trend in journalism.
4. Automated Journalism
Automated journalism involves the use of computer programs to generate news stories automatically. Automated journalism is particularly popular in sports reporting and financial news, where the data is often structured, and the stories are formulaic.
It poses a challenge to journalistic ethics, such as accuracy, impartiality, and transparency. Critics argue that unlike human journalists, computer algorithms cannot have the same level of critical thinking and creativity required to produce compelling, engaging news content.
5. Audience Engagement
Audience engagement is an emerging trend in journalism, where journalists and news organisations are focusing on building relationships and engaging with their audiences. With the rise of social media and user-generated content, audience engagement has become a critical component of journalism. Now a days it is a common practice that journalists are using social media platforms to share news stories, engage in conversations with audiences, and gather feedback on the topics that matter most. News organisations are also using audience engagement strategies to generate revenue, such as offering premium content and online subscriptions, building communities of readers, and hosting live events.
6. Fact-checking
Over a period of times fake stories had filled the social media and somehow started effecting the main stream media. But as they say, ‘Necessity is the mother of invention’. Fact-checking is another emerging trend in journalism. With the rise of fake news, journalists have recognized the importance of fact-checking to ensure the accuracy of information they publish. Fact-checking allows journalists to verify data and statements made by politicians, scientists, and others to ensure that they are true and not misleading. Fact-checking also helps to build trust between journalists and their audiences. News organisations are increasingly using fact-checking teams to scrutinize information before it is published. Fact-checking has also led to the emergence of new websites and organisations that are dedicated to checking facts for accuracy.
7. Collaborative Journalism
Collaborative journalism involves the cooperation among various media outlets, reporters, and experts to gather information and tell a story. Collaborative journalism can take on many forms. It might involve reporters from different media outlets working together on a single story, or it could involve a news organization working with experts or academics in a specific field. Collaborative journalism can produce more in-depth and thorough reporting and can help to build strong relationships between different media outlets.
8. Solutions Journalism
Solutions Journalism is another trend in journalism that focuses on solutions to problems rather than just reporting on them. Solutions journalism involves highlighting good news stories and reporting on solutions to problems that are working effectively. It aims to provide hope and promote positive attitudes that may inspire and motivate individuals to take action or force change in their communities.
Solutions journalism often requires a change in attitude by journalists, who are used to reporting on negative news. By focusing on solutions and positive news, journalists can highlight what is working well and draw attention to areas where progress is being made.
9. Personalisation
Personalisation is becoming increasingly important in journalism as news organisations strive to tailor content to meet individual reader preferences. By understanding readers’ preferences, news organisations can also tailor their advertising and monetization strategies more effectively.
However, Personalisation also raises concerns about filter bubbles and echo chambers. If news organisations only serve content that aligns with readers’ existing beliefs, it can limit their exposure to diverse perspectives and lead to a lack of understanding or empathy towards different viewpoints.
10. Citizen Journalism
Citizen journalism refers to the participation of ordinary individuals in the process of news gathering, reporting, and sharing. With the advent of smart phones and social media platforms, anyone can now capture and share news events in real-time.
Citizen journalism has played a significant role in breaking news stories and providing eyewitness accounts in situations where traditional journalists may not have immediate access. However, citizen journalism also presents challenges in terms of accuracy and verification. Unlike professional journalists, citizen journalists may not have the resources or training to verify information thoroughly.
11. Media Literacy
Media literacy is a growing trend that emphasizes the importance of educating audiences about critically analysing and understanding the media they consume. With the increasing prevalence of fake news and misinformation, media literacy programs aim to equip individuals with the skills necessary to identify reliable sources, evaluate information, and differentiate between fact and opinion.
News organisations play a crucial role in promoting media literacy by providing transparent and accurate reporting, highlighting their fact-checking processes, and engaging in public discussions about media literacy.
12. Transparency and Accountability
Transparency and accountability have become key priorities for news organisations as they strive to build trust with their audiences. News organisations are now expected to be transparent about their sources, reporting processes, and potential conflicts of interest.
13. Interactive Journalism
Interactive journalism allows readers to engage with news content through interactive features, such as quizzes, polls, and interactive graphics. It promotes user participation and allows readers to explore stories at their own pace and based on their interests.
Interactive journalism can be an effective way to increase audience engagement, as it encourages readers to interact with the content and take an active role in the storytelling process.
14. Artificial Intelligence in Journalism
Artificial intelligence (AI) is beginning to play a larger role in journalism, particularly in areas such as automated news writing, content recommendations, and fact-checking. AI algorithms can analyse data and generate news articles in a fraction of the time it would take a human journalist. This is particularly useful for data-driven stories or reports that require a high level of accuracy and consistency.
While AI has the potential to streamline work-flows and enhance journalism, there are also concerns about its impact on job displacement and the potential for bias in algorithmic decision-making. It is crucial for news organisations to use AI responsibly and ensure that human journalists continue to play a central role in storytelling and maintaining editorial standards.
❖ Conclusion:
In conclusion, these additional emerging trends contribute to the evolving landscape of journalism, presenting unique opportunities and challenges for journalists and news organisations. By embracing AI, mobile journalism, collaborative approaches, and other innovative practices, journalists can adapt and thrive in an ever-changing media ecosystem while upholding the fundamental principles of journalism. And all these learnings of yours can be done under 1 roof that is IIMT University Meerut, known as the best private university in Meerut U.P. At IIMTU you will get all the new technologically advanced equipments and facilities to cope with the ever evolving sector of Journalism.