“With technology and social media and citizen journalism, every rock that used to go unturned is now being flipped, lit and put on TV." -LZ Ganderson
According to Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel, “The purpose of journalism is not defined by technology, nor by journalists or the techniques they employ.” Rather, “the principles and purpose of journalism are defined by something more basic: the function news plays in the lives of people.”
Citizen journalists are individuals who report on news and events using digital media tools, such as social media platforms like facebook, instagram, twitter etc, and blogs, and online news websites. They may not have formal training in journalism, but use their own experiences and perspectives to report on events happening in their surroundings, communities or around the world. Their contributions can include writing articles, taking photos or videos, or providing live updates through social media. Citizen journalism can serve as an important supplement to traditional news sources and can provide diverse perspectives on current events. The citizens who are receiving fast information from these citizen journalists have a positive or beneficial effect in our society.
The benefits of receiving fast information from citizen journalists include:
Increased awareness: everyone receiving the information will be updated of current events
Improved decision-making: when citizens have access to fast information, they can make more informed decisions about their lives and the lives of their families
Greater transparency and accountability: fast information can help citizens hold their leaders and institutions accountable
Increased civic engagement: fast information can help citizens become more engaged in their communities and the political process by giving them the information they need to participate in public discourse and decision-making.
Economic benefit: fast information can help citizens take advantage of economic opportunities and make better financial decisions
