Write Into the Wild
I attended a seminar a few weeks ago after work about how to launch a career in freelance journalism. It was held at Annenberg for graduate journalism students and was…
Digital Divide Report
Originally published Nov. 30, 2010
The Digital Divide and Journalism’s Responsibilities
E-readers, websites, Kindles, and iPads are new electronic tools changing the landscape of journalism. These technological wonders are giving journalists the opportunity to offer news in more ways than ever before. However, many citizens are unable to consume important news and information through these new devices because they are either technologically illiterate or unable to afford the expensive computer hardware. Then, in the current Internet Age, do journalists have a responsibility to continue offering print news to those citizens who fall on the wrong side of this “digital divide”?
Simply put, the digital divide refers to the gap between those who use computers and the Internet and those who do not. It includes the imbalance both in physical access to technology and the resources and skills needed to effectively participate.[1]
Bad News & Journalism
Originally published Nov. 3, 2010
Newspapers = Debbie Downer[1]
I’ll be honest. I’m a moron. Just ask my girlfriend. Here’s more evidence: I’m in graduate school learning the fine and important craft of journalism and I’m beginning to realize: I don’t like newspapers.
Maybe I should’ve completely read one — from the first page to the last — before applying to journalism school?
Have you actually read a newspaper lately? It’s a miserable experience. It’s like reading the Book of Revelations, horrifying and apocalyptic. But even Revelations is, at least, engaging with its interesting language. The worst thing about newspapers for me is their complete utter lack of any sense of humor. It’s time newspapers lighten up. Seriously. And, yes, even Revelations has humor in it. Evidence: apparently, one day soon — according to John the Apostle — the battle of Armageddon will be started by three obnoxious war-mongering frogs (vomited out by a dragon and two beasts) who travel the world’s palaces inciting kings to mobilize for battle.[2] World leaders taking advice from frogs that whisper sweet nothings about war in their ears?!? Comedic gold! (more…)