JOURNALISM in the Digital Age
Rula AlSabaawi: News presenter & content creator - Al Aan TV
In the ever-evolving landscape of journalism, social media has significantly changed how news is consumed, shared, and reported. In this blog post, we will delve into the insights shared by Rula, a seasoned journalist, during her episode, where she discussed the challenges, biases, and the symbiotic relationship between social media and journalism. We will explore social media's impact on journalism and its role in shaping public opinion.
The Challenges of Journalism
Rula highlighted the challenges journalists face, particularly when covering wars and conflicts. The intensity and constant pressure to stay updated with the latest developments can take a toll on journalists mentally and emotionally. The nature of the job requires them to be constantly aware and engaged, even outside of working hours. This dedication to their craft often means taking their work home with them as they strive to stay informed and provide accurate news to the public.
The Influence of Social Media
Rula emphasized the crucial role that social media plays in modern journalism. With traditional news outlets losing dominance, social media platforms have become the go-to source for news consumption. Rula acknowledged that while social media allows for wider reach and faster dissemination of information, it also poses challenges in accuracy and bias.
The Issue of Bias
When discussing bias in news reporting, Rula expressed her belief that all news outlets are somewhat biased. She highlighted the recent phenomenon of social media becoming a platform for individuals to share their perspectives, often leading to the spread of misinformation. Rula stressed the importance of checking multiple sources and conducting personal research to form an informed opinion. She also mentioned the Ground News app, which helps users identify the bias of news sources, enabling them to assimilate information from various perspectives.
The Power of Gen Z and Social Media
Rula acknowledged the influence of Gen Z in shaping the future of journalism. With their emphasis on authenticity and individuality, Gen Z is challenging the traditional standards of appearance and presentation in journalism. Rula noted that social media allows journalists to be more themselves, as the audience appreciates genuine expression. However, she also acknowledged the algorithmic preference for a more put-together appearance, highlighting the delicate balance between authenticity and meeting audience expectations.
The Role of Social Media in Spreading Awareness
Rula emphasized the importance of interacting with news posts on social media platforms. By engaging with news content, users can spread awareness and contribute to disseminating accurate information. However, she cautioned against blindly accepting biased outlets and encouraged users to call out misinformation when they encounter it. Rula also acknowledged the power of Gen Z in holding biased outlets accountable through cancel culture.
The Evolution of Journalism
Rula discussed the evolving nature of journalism, particularly in the digital age. She highlighted the shift from traditional TV news to digital platforms, where journalists have more freedom to express themselves and connect with a wider audience. The rise of social media has allowed journalists to reach their audience more effectively, breaking away from the rigid schedules of traditional news broadcasts.
Rula's episode illuminated the intricate relationship between social media and journalism. While social media has revolutionized the way news is consumed and shared, it also presents challenges regarding accuracy and bias. The power of Gen Z in shaping the future of journalism and their emphasis on authenticity is transforming the industry. As users, we are responsible for engaging critically with news content, checking multiple sources, and contributing to disseminating accurate information. By understanding the impact of social media on journalism, we can navigate the digital landscape more effectively and make informed decisions about the news we consume.