HOW TO GATHER NEWS 101By Noshin Jahan

Getting the Information

It is wise to collect information prior to create a news story. Collecting information can be a difficult task, as it may require secondary or primary research.

With secondary research the information gathered must be true and not a hoax. With primary research gathering information takes a long time and is difficult.

The aim is to inform your audience this should be done through various evidence, detail and sources.

The Interview Stage

• When conducting an interview you must be aware of the questions you are asking.

• Are you being ethical? What precautions are you taking? Are there any risks?

• It is significant to be aware of the audience and if they may benefit from the information gathered. What do you want your audience to know?

• It is crucial to be organised.• If interviews doesn't go so well or if there are

problems it is important to have a contingency, so that there is a back-up idea.

Being Bold & Brave

• To truly capture the essence of a story and provide the best for their audience: many journalists risk their lives to go and capture footage and gain information of their news stories. For example some journalists travel to war zones to get information.

• You shouldn't be afraid to get the information you need. (Although there are some limitations).

• As a journalist you are completely entitled to take pictures and report a major scene… I mean we do live in a country where we have the right to our freedom of speech.

Illustration of 1984 novel by George Orwell (freedom)

Consider News Values

• Consider:TimeProximityImportance Human InterestIs it bizarre?Is it interesting?• People love a captivating story whether it be

about gossip or about the recent political disaster.

• Create a story that persuades the audience to want to:

Fight back/argueAgree/disagree

Nowadays…• It is now easier to create news.• Digitalisation and convergence: we can

create news content and capture news content all from the safety and privacy of our mobile phones (even as I speak).

• We are able to gather news from VARIOUS different websites and blogs and using these puts us journalists at an advantage to publish our creativity online where BILLIONS of people have access WORLDWIDE.

• Anyone, everyone, anyone can become a journalist and express their opinions and belief!