As the world evolves, so does the job description of a “journalist”. Previously, journalists only stuck to a singular medium — be it print, radio broadcasting, or television reporting — but that no longer remains the case. Journalists now take on multiple job titles when out in the field covering current events, coining the term “backpack journalism”. Backpack journalists are responsible for carrying their own camera, audio equipment, laptop/computer, and other media equipment. This allows them to record video and audio of an interview or news package, while then writing their story from their laptop before sending everything off to their editor. This idea also applies to convergence, where many news sites publish a package with audio and visuals along with a text story.
As for the 24/7 news cycle, it has taken on a whole new meaning since the inception of online journalism — even more so now with social media. For example, if a major trade happened in a sports league 50 years ago, a print newspaper would not be able to publish the story about it until the next day. However, the second a trade goes through in today’s online world, the official report is put up on social media and ESPN minutes later.
Leave a Reply