The definition of journalism is constantly changing as the world advances. Fifty years ago, when my parents were just kids, being a journalist was completely different than it is now. The most significant change within half a century is the rise of social media and digital content. During that time, journalists controlled the news flow, but now, anyone with a smartphone can report and share any information in real time on the internet. This coincides with the question: Is everyone with a Twitter account a journalist when they share their opinion on social media? There are also live streamers walking around with cameras documenting stories surrounding them. This technology change also affects the 24/7 news cycle. Now, stories can be posted in real-time live as soon as they happen, versus back in the day when news companies would have to wait until the morning to publish their paper. Although this is an effective way to spread information fast and efficiently, it also leaves room for error by not fact-checking.
In today’s day and age, journalists are no longer just writers and broadcasters. With the coverage or journalism evolving, these professionals are now storytellers who have gained an audience where individuals can invest in their lives and create a niche for a specific audience. These reporters can travel to certain destinations and release their stories faster than ever before. Modular content is affecting how online journalism takes place now that many different platforms exist to take in content. People can now get their news from watching a 45-second TikTok clip, reading a 500-character tweet, or a long-form 60-minute segment on actual television. Journalist can now reach their desired audience more effectively than ever before.
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