Standards Based Journalism

What is journalism according to the American Press Institute?

• Reporting only confirmed facts

• Telling stories to entertain the audience

• Gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information

• Promoting biased viewpoints

Answer explanation

The American Press Institute defines journalism as “the activity of gathering, assessing, creating, and presenting news and information.”

Which of the following is NOT one of the journalism standards mentioned in the lesson?

• Transparency

• Independence

• Profitability

• Accountability

Answer explanation

As a profession, journalism has standards. Ask a true journalist from any reputable news organization what those are, and they’ll tell you basically the same things: • Verification (fact-checking; vetting sources) • Transparency (being open about the process, biases, etc.) • Accountability (naming the author, source of video/photo, etc.) • Independence (staying free from influence by those being covered).

What does transparency mean in journalism?

• Being open about the reporting process and any biases

• Reporting only positive news stories

• Hiding the identity of sources

• Avoiding controversial topics

Answer explanation

Transparency in journalism refers to the practice of openly disclosing sources, methods, biases, and potential conflicts of interest to the audience, promoting accountability and trustworthiness in reporting.

What is one key aspect of independence in journalism?

• Being influenced by the subjects being covered

• Reporting only what the audience wants to hear

• Having a financial interest in the news story

• Staying free from influence by those being covered

Answer explanation

Independence in journalism means that reporters and news organizations are free from outside influence or control. They can report news and stories without being told what to say by governments, companies, or other powerful groups. This helps ensure that the information they provide is fair, accurate, and trustworthy.

Why do journalists often protect the identity of their sources?

• To maintain an aura of mystery around the news story

• To prevent the audience from questioning the credibility of the report

• To ensure a continued supply of information and protect the source's safety

• To increase their own popularity and recognition

Answer explanation

Journalists carefully develop relationships with sources inside the government or other organizations who are willing to share information as long as they aren’t named. Journalists are very protective of these sources, both as a supply of information and for the source’s safety. Some journalists would go to jail rather than reveal a source’s identity

Which of the following statements is TRUE about journalism as described in the lesson?

• Journalists never report information that hasn't been confirmed.

• Journalists prioritize speed over accuracy when reporting breaking news.

• Journalists strive to be transparent and update stories as more verified information becomes available.

• Journalists never correct false information once it's been reported.

What does the lesson suggest is the best strategy for dealing with the abundance of news sources online?

• Ignoring all news sources to avoid being influenced

• Relying only on news sources that align with personal beliefs

• Developing skills to evaluate news sources critically

• Believing everything reported without question

What does it mean when a news organization updates or corrects a story?

• It indicates unreliable reporting

• It shows a lack of transparency

• It suggests the story was fabricated

• It demonstrates a commitment to accuracy and reliability

Answer explanation

If a news organization reports something that turns out to be false, they’ll correct it. If you’re seeing these kinds of updates or corrections from a news organization, recognize them as indicators of reliable reporting.

What should readers look for in news reporting to determine its reliability?

• Sensational headlines and clickbait

• Lack of transparency and accountability

• Markers of journalistic standards like verification, transparency, and accountability

• Consistent bias and one-sided viewpoints

Answer explanation

As a profession, journalism has standards. Ask a true journalist from any reputable news organization what those are, and they’ll tell you basically the same things:

• Verification (fact-checking; vetting sources)

• Transparency (being open about the process, biases, etc.)

• Accountability (naming the author, source of video/photo, etc.)

• Independence (staying free from influence by those being covered)

What is the main purpose of journalism according to the lesson?

• To entertain the audience with interesting stories

• To promote the viewpoints of those in power

• To provide accurate, truthful information and help people make informed decisions

• To manipulate public opinion for personal gain

Answer explanation

Journalists strive to tell the truth, to be honest, and to deliver correct information.