Broadcast Journalism: Illuminating the World in Real-Time

Opdahl Naipeng

doi:10.37421/2165-7912.2023.13.528

Mini Review - (2023) Volume 13, Issue 4

Broadcast Journalism: Illuminating the World in Real-Time

Opdahl Naipeng^*

^*Correspondence: Opdahl Naipeng, Department of Multimedia Technology and Communication, University of North Malaysia, Sintok, Malaysia, Email:

Author information

Department of Multimedia Technology and Communication, University of North Malaysia, Sintok, Malaysia

Received: 01-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. jmcj-23-108818; Editor assigned: 03-Aug-2023, Pre QC No. P-108818; Reviewed: 15-Aug-2023, QC No. Q-108818; Revised: 21-Aug-2023, Manuscript No. R-108818; Published: 28-Aug-2023 , DOI: 10.37421/2165-7912.2023.13.528
Citation: Naipeng, Opdahl. “Broadcast Journalism: Illuminating the World in Real-Time.” J Mass Communicat Journalism 13 (2023): 528.
Copyright: © 2023 Naipeng O. This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited.

Abstract

In today's fast-paced world, information is key, and the demand for immediate, accurate news is higher than ever before. One of the most effective ways to deliver news promptly to a vast audience is through broadcast journalism. This form of journalism employs various media platforms such as television and radio to disseminate news and information to viewers and listeners in real-time. Broadcast journalism has undergone significant transformations over the years, adapting to the changing technological landscape and audience preferences. In this article, we will explore the evolution, impact, challenges, and future prospects of broadcast journalism, highlighting its significance in shaping public opinion and promoting transparency in society.

Keywords

Broadcast journalism • Television • BBC

Introduction

The roots of broadcast journalism can be traced back to the early 20th century when radio broadcasting first emerged. In the 1920s, pioneers like Edward R. Murrow and H.V. Kaltenborn made significant strides in radio journalism, bringing news and commentary to homes across the nation. However, it wasn't until the 1950s that television became the dominant medium for broadcast journalism. Television brought a visual element to news reporting, enabling journalists to present not only spoken words but also live footage of events. This visual aspect revolutionized the way people consumed news, making it more engaging and emotionally impactful. News anchors like Walter Cronkite and Barbara Walters became household names, earning the trust and respect of millions of viewers [1].

Literature Review

In the late 20^th century, with the advent of cable television and satellite technology, the number of news channels multiplied exponentially. This expansion offered viewers a wide array of options to choose from, catering to various interests and ideologies. The rise of 24-hour news networks, such as CNN and BBC News, brought news coverage to an entirely new level, allowing viewers to stay informed around the clock. Broadcast journalism has a profound impact on society, influencing public opinion, shaping political discourse, and fostering a sense of community [2].

Discussion

With its ability to reach vast audiences in real-time, it plays a crucial role in informing citizens about current events, both domestically and internationally.

Information dissemination: Broadcast journalism serves as a primary source of information for a large portion of the population. It keeps people informed about the latest developments in their communities, countries, and the world. This enables citizens to make informed decisions, participate in democratic processes, and engage in meaningful discussions about societal issues.

Public awareness and accountability: Journalists often expose injustices, corruption, and wrongdoing through investigative reporting. By shedding light on these issues, broadcast journalism holds institutions and individuals accountable for their actions, promoting transparency and demanding responsible behavior from those in power.

Disaster and crisis reporting: During times of crisis, such as natural disasters, wars, or pandemics, broadcast journalism becomes a critical lifeline for affected communities. It provides real-time updates, safety instructions, and connects people in distress with relevant authorities and resources.

Cultural exchange and understanding: Through international news coverage, broadcast journalism fosters cultural exchange and understanding between nations. It helps bridge gaps between different societies, breaking stereotypes, and promoting empathy and solidarity [3].

Entertainment and education: Beyond hard news reporting, broadcast journalism offers a range of programs that entertain and educate audiences. Documentaries, talk shows, and human-interest stories allow viewers to explore various subjects and expand their knowledge.

Challenges faced by broadcast journalism

Despite its numerous contributions to society, broadcast journalism faces several challenges in the digital age. The rise of the internet and social media platforms has transformed the media landscape, presenting both opportunities and threats to traditional broadcast journalism.

Fake news and misinformation: The proliferation of online platforms has made it easier for false information to spread rapidly. Social media, in particular, has become a breeding ground for fake news, leading to misinformation and confusion among the public.

Competition from online media: Online news sources and citizen journalism have challenged the dominance of traditional broadcast outlets. The 24/7 news cycle and instant access to information on the internet have altered audience preferences and consumption habits.

Monetization and sustainability: With the shift towards digital platforms, traditional broadcast media has faced financial challenges. Advertisers and audiences are increasingly moving to online platforms, posing sustainability concerns for traditional broadcasters [4].

Ethical dilemmas: As competition intensifies, some broadcast journalists may prioritize speed over accuracy, leading to ethical dilemmas and compromising journalistic integrity. Maintaining high ethical standards is essential in upholding the public's trust in journalism.

Political interference and censorship: In some regions, governments exert control over broadcast media, influencing the news agenda and restricting press freedom. This hampers the ability of journalists to report objectively and independently.

The future of broadcast journalism

While broadcast journalism faces significant challenges, it also holds immense potential for growth and adaptation. Embracing technological advancements and catering to evolving audience preferences will be crucial for its future success.

Digital integration: Broadcast journalism can leverage digital platforms to expand its reach and engage with younger audiences. Online streaming, podcasting, and interactive content can complement traditional broadcasts, making news more accessible and engaging [5].

Fact-checking and credibility: To combat misinformation, broadcast journalism must prioritize fact-checking and verification. Establishing credibility as a reliable source of information will be vital in gaining the public's trust.

Innovative storytelling: Utilizing augmented reality, virtual reality, and immersive storytelling techniques can enhance the viewer's experience, making news reporting more captivating and impactful.

Diverse representation: Encouraging diversity in newsrooms and ensuring diverse representation in news reporting can offer more comprehensive and inclusive perspectives on global issues.

Media literacy education: Investing in media literacy education is crucial for empowering the public to critically evaluate news sources and discern between reliable information and misinformation [6].

Conclusion

Broadcast journalism has come a long way since its inception, adapting to technological advancements and societal changes. Its ability to deliver news and information in real-time to a vast audience has made it a powerful force in shaping public opinion and promoting transparency. However, the digital age has brought forth new challenges, requiring broadcast journalism to embrace innovation, uphold ethical standards, and prioritize accuracy and credibility. By doing so, it can continue to play a vital role in illuminating the world and empowering citizens with the knowledge they need to navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected global landscape.