Reflection

"And I believe that good journalism, good television, can make our world a better place"

-Christiane Amanpour-

This course has re-establish in my mind of the power of journalism and, from this, the influential role the media possesses in the current world climate. I have always appreciated the degree of importance in the functioning of media outlets, and my love for broadcast television personalities has always been reflected in the programs I choose to watch. However, JOUR1111 taught me to look further than what is just presented to us (print, broadcast, radio etc.), and to see the methods by which the media uses in the portrayal of issues.

In looking back over the topics studied this semester, such as Old and New Media sources, text news sources, photo journalism, a sound lecture speaking of radio, Commercial and Public Media, ethics in the media, news values, agenda setting, investigative journalism and a lecture by a professional Blogger, it was evident of the degree to which we were introduced to varying media sources.

I feel I learnt a lot about the world of journalism in the study of the Media Agenda Setting. As already outlined in this blog, Media Agenda Setting is all about the way the mass media presents certain issues frequently and predominately. Ultimately, the more coverage an issues receives by the media, the more important it is deemed by the public. I really felt the presence of this concept in the portrayal of any news issues.
One of my favourite television news programs is A Current Affair, when watching this program I began to notice the presence of agenda setting. Their program has the ability to determine what is important in the public eye by the way and frequency of coverage on an issue.
Below is a clip from The Chasers War On Everything about the portrayal of people in the media. I feel this is a form of Agenda Setting in that the media reflects how the public should interpret the people by the way the issue is presented. The Chasers program has an excellent ability to point the agenda settings of the media.

Another element of this course I found highly interesting was the lecture centred around ethics. I enjoyed the structure of this lecture in that we were very involved in the deciding of whether the advertisements were in good or bad taste. In viewing a variety of comical advertisements and unethical or ethical television campaigns, I felt I really learnt of the transformation of what is deemed appropriate in the current media world. It amazed me how people reacted to different campaigns and advertisements which is addressed previously in this blog.

The final part of this course that I found educational was the study of Investigative Journalism. I am a very interested in the world of investigative journalism so I found this lecture incorporated a lot of what I plan to do after University. Therefore, this lecture was good for me.

I felt that a lot of the informational content of this course was obvious in that it is clear what a journalist is employed to do. The lectures that I found the most obvious were News Values (it was clear what would take priority in a news broadcast or article), as well as the lecture based on photo journalism. Even though the content was obvious in some cases, I felt it needed to be covered for myself, as a student, to grasp the entire concept of journalism.

Throughout this course we were asked to keep a blog that we updated after every lecture and tutorial that gave us time to reflect on the concepts learnt. At first I wasn't too keen on constant blogging, however I began to treat it like a personal diary, in that it became quite personal in its depth. We were told to include something in our blog that we loved, and this is why I wrote about shoes. I love journalism and I love shoes, so it didn't take long before I loved writing on my blog. The concept of blogging was an excellent idea for this course and it really allowed me to learn more about the topics of JOUR1111.

In conclusion, prior to commencing this course I was adamant that I wanted to do broadcast journalism, however, in just 12 short weeks, I have learnt of the diversity in journalism. I was always aware of there being print, online, broadcast or radio journalism, although the degree in change between each was always lost on me. The way you conduct yourself, the way you change the way you write, and the issues in which are covered are all so dramatically different between the many different media sources.
This course allowed me to fall deeper in love with journalism and helped me decide on my future occupation.


10.06.2012

Commercialism in the Media

I found a link to the above YouTube clip on Steve Molks blog. Along with the humous means in which members of 'The Chasers War on Everything' have gone about this segment of their program, there is great depth in the connection of what is being portrayed and the content of this courses theory. It is the ability of the media to hide (not very well..) their advertising. It is amazing really - how greatly influential commercialism has become that we are viewing it on a constant basis, and some times we don't even realise.
After watching this, I did some researching in regard to 'The Hamster Wheel'. I was amazed at the amount of coverage the 'Chasers' have done on the way the media portrays a variety of elements. It was included of such things as:
-Muslims in the Media
-Science in the Media
-Celebrities in the Media
-Weather in the Media

All of it provided me with a change in the way I viewed the issue, a form of media agenda setting.

The clip that I was most intrigued at was the 'Muslims in the Media'. This clip addressed the wearing of the Burqa in comparing it to the wearing of a balaclava (in hiding your identity). The young boy who is centre of WIN News's investigation proves to be completely uneducated of the reasons behind the wearing of the Burqa, and ultimately comes off very negatively in the investigation.
This clip was also surprisingly interesting when it was made apparent that less then 1% actually wear the Burqa in Australia. Amazing really, when the Burqa had been of such top priority in the media for months.

I like the Hamster Wheel. It shows media in a new way, a way that promotes a different side.
I love media!

31.05.2012

"All the news that's fit to print"

The final tutorial for this course was spent watching New York Times documentary called 

'Page One: Inside the New York Times'.

This documentary proves a sensational insight into the New York Times newsroom and speaks of the transformation of the media landscape in regard to new media. With the current decline in profitability for newspapers, as more and more people are turning to the Internet as their main news source, the print media industry has hit its greatest time of turmoil. Page One captures the exceptional journalistic skills of the journalists at the New York Times. This insight allowed me to appreciate the hard and important work of a print journalist.

One of my favourite people introduced in this movie is David Carr, the Media Equations columnist for the Monday business section that addressed media issues including print, digital, film, radio and television. He is a man who truly loves The Times and appreciates and adores his job. I admire him.
There is a moment in this documentary where Carr stops a man he is interviewing who is speaking incorrectly of the journalists at The Times, it is an awkward moment for the other people in the interview. However, it is a moment that accentuates David Carr's love for The Times. The interview is shown below.

I admire the courage Mr Carr possess to be able to take this action in this interview. It makes me fall more in love with journalism.


29.05.2012

King of Blogging

The final lecture for this course invited King Blogger, Steve Molks, to speak with us in regard to what he knows best - blogging.

I found what he had to say quite interesting in relation to the degree of usage of New Media. This course had already addressed the importance and growth of forms of new media in the current media climate, however the ability to be paid to sit at home and write what you think about and what interests you seems highly unrealistic. However, as a Steve Molks made apparent, that is exactly what he does.

Mr Molks loves television, so that is exactly what his blog is about (http://molkstvtalk.com/). He includes everything he can about television - origins, programs, involved people, interviews etc. He is ultimately getting paid for doing what he loves. If I could be paid to buy shoes and write reviews on their performance or beauty than I know I would be living in paradise, but I don't think that is at all realistic, but maybe some day.

I gained a lot of knowledge in the power of social networking in this lecture. It was not at all as content based as previous lectures but it proved to educate me of the ability to promote a diversity in abilities for future employees. A blog can function as evidence of talent, it shows of something different to just being able to write an article or talk to a camera.
I liked the idea that my blog was teaching me new things and showing my new things to others.
Steve said that people have common interests, so maybe there is someone who cares about what I write in my blog, or appreciates my shoes as much as I do. Who knows.

28.05.2012

Untouched

I have owned these shoes for approximately 3 months and they are yet to be worn. I don't know what memory I wish for these to hold. I want it to be something great and beautiful, a memory that is perfectly happy and precious. I am waiting for a joyous moment, a time that I can reminisce on as a perfect day.
At the moment, they remind me of the day I purchased them. The day was spent in Brisbane city shopping with friends, similar to the daily outing of my favourite famous four best friends (Carrie, Charlotte, Samantha and Miranda). Nothing greatly important happened in our day though. I don't want to see a boring moment in these shoes.
So for now, they stay untouched. They remain just another pair of shoes in my collection awaiting for the perfect moment to leave their shelf.
I will always remember there moment of stardom. I hope it is some time soon.

25.05.2012

Investigative Journalism

Investigative journalism is crucial in the development of new found news. 

'Isn't all journalism meant to involve questioning, investigation of facts and opinions presented to us?"

-Ross Coulthart- (Australian Investigative Journalist)

Investigative journalism involves talent. I feel to be able to investigate appropriately on an issue of primary salience and controversy is a vital characteristic for a journalist. The following 'IN''s of INvestigative journalism were outlined in the lecture:
- INtelligence (well thought out and understood before thorough and poor investigation begins)
- INformed (know what you are going to be talking about and be aware of the contributing factors)

- INtuitive (rely on you gut instinct in reference to danger and security of yourself and the community)
- INside (be aware of what is actually going on with knowledge of inside information)
- INvest (put yourself out there and use all your personal contacts)
All these 'IN''s serve so much purpose in the means of investigating a story. Without these investigative characteristics, the investigating fails.

In this lecture we also looked at the deeper definitions and purpose of investigative journalism, being:
1. Critical and thorough journalism
CRITICAL = it's crucial that the journalist is an active participant in checking out the information for all stories.

"ACTIVE INTERVENTION"

was the main 

THOROUGH = Journalist makes a substantial effort. (ie. time spent, sources consulted, and thorough approach)

2. Custodians of conscience

'investigation takes society's morals and norms and holds breaches up to public scrutiny; in other words, what they call 'civic vice' is exposed for society to respond.'

"EXPOSURE"

3. To provide a voice for those without one and to hold the powerful to account.

This element is all about the giving power to the powerless, and a voice to the voiceless. The presence of Social Justice. 

"PUBLIC INTEREST"

4. Fourth Estate/ Fourth branch of Government/ "Watch Dog"

All these elements are powerful in the means of agenda setting and news values as mentioned in previous blogs. 

Attention was brought to this idea of 'Shoe Leather' journalism. Ultimately meaning wearing out the leather in your shoes by walking around and finding out what is actually going o. GET OUT THERE! let's face it, there wasn't always google and wikipedia. 

This ideology of being SCEPTICAL NOT CYNICAL is brought to life investigative journalism. 

Sceptical - 'taking things with a grain of salt'. Everything that is said, it is necessary to question its content.

Cynical - don't just completely disregard the information as false.

John Pilger is an Australian (International) Investigative Journalist who now makes films that expose mainly America's stuff ups over the years. He made a statement in regard to cutting through the agenda of the news.

"It is not enough for journalists to see themselves as mere messengers without understanding the hidden agendas of the message and myths that surround it."

I learnt from this of the power in changing the agenda of the media in finding new information to cover a story. I felt this was very evident in analysing historical investigative journalists work and how they have powerfully changed an agenda and the world!

In 1826 Edward Hall Smith made a history defining move in the development of investigative journalism. He campaigned against the official corruption and ill treatment of convict labour in his print called "The Sydney Monitor". Smith was sent to jail. Such a change in investigative journalism!

Another Trailblazer in investigative journalist history that I felt stood out to me in this lecture was "The Moonlight State". I was so interested in the details of this case that I was amazed I hadn't shown any interest in it earlier. It was highlighted of the contribution from so many people in the coverage of this investigation and how important it was in the media. The two years of investigation was so worthwhile in revealing this story to the public. Oh how I love journalists!

Local investigative journalism sources include:

-the global mail

-the CRICKEY website

-Australian Story

The lecture stated an old journalism saying that I found very accurate,

'If your mum says she loves you, check it out!"

Ultimately this teaches aspiring journalists to assume nothing, to always check your facts and expect whistleblowers to be/go crazy. I liked these three little rules of investigative journalism, they were so true! 

The varying types of investigative interaction are fairly obvious, being interviews, observations, documents, briefings, leaks, trespassing and theft. (Some legal, some not to legal..)

In looking at present threats to investigative journalism, it is considered of the influence of Online News. The lecture addressed this issue in saying:

Less money = less journalists + less time (which ultimately leads to) LESS INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM! 

Another threat included the fight between Journalism and PR. 

PR being the propaganda by truths in the form of a persuasive case.

Journalism being verifying the facts in the public eye. 

GROWTH IN PR = SHRINKAGE IN JOURNALISM.

I believe that investigative journalism can't die. We need it! Sure with the adaptations of social networking, the way in which we consume media and interpret it is altered, but the investigative side is crucial in uncovering hidden stories. 

In conclusion, it was looked at of the changes in PR with Journalism. 

PR

-resistance to exposure

-dodging questions

-massaging talent

-cleaning up stories (spin)

Journalism

-no intervention

-no shoe leather

-lack of depth

-formulaic reporting

I appreciate journalism. Investigative journalism takes talent and skill, a talent and skill I want to learn to do well. 

21.05.2012

My Vans

My favourite colour is pink.
My favourite thing is shoes.
So it would make sense for me to love pink shoes. I do love pink shoes.

I have many pairs of pink shoes, but I do own a very special pair.

These are my pink vans. I found them behind the counter in a Melbourne skate shoe shop. They claimed they were the first to get them in stock in Melbourne and they weren't going to be put on the shelf till the following day - but the man liked me enough to let me be an exception.
My pink vans remind me of a time when I was able to spend an entire weekend with two of the greatest people God ever created. I hadn't seen my childhood best friends for six years, and seeing them was a very special time for me.
These two girls deserved to be remembered through an important pair of shoes as they are important to me.
These shoes don't juts capture a moment or a memory - they great an emotion. They make me happy because they make me think of a time where I stood alongside my two best friends.

Shoes have more power than what people give them credit for.

17.05.2012

Tutorial FOUR.

Tutorials always make me feel smarter - like I learn of current affairs on a whole new level. It is almost like a two hour deconstruction of the news and I really enjoy it.

By starting our tute by looking at what is currently making news, we were able to address such issues as Greece's current euro crisis (there was so much controversy on this issue in the media, all I learnt from investigating it was that I do not wish to be a financial journalist!) as well as the murder of Allison Baden-Clay. I found this murder very intriguing. The media held so much power in privileging who they believed the murderer is. I found this very clear in Today Tonight's coverage of the story as shown below:

I feel this story just further proved of the influence of a journalists opinion in a story. However, their opinion should never come without fact.

We reflected on ethics in journalism through acknowledging the late Kevin Carter's 1994 Pulitzer Prize winning photograph of a starving child during the Sudan Famine. 

His photograph caused a lot of criticism by the public eye and Carter committed suicide three months after this photograph went viral. 

This photograph left me speechless, it still does. This degree of pain, inhumanity and suffering should not have to be felt by any human being. This small child is being preyed on by a vulture -this is not a correct representation of the food chain by any means. This photo tells a story, it tells a story of the presence of starvation in third-world countries.
We also watched a documentary on Kevin Carter and how his photo failed to show compassion in accordance with the photojournalisms code of ethics. The video is shown below:

It is a powerful clip that I feel shows the death of man who had a real passion for photography. The world needs more people like Kevin Carter to show of the disgrace of humanity in such country as Sudan.

In this tutorial, we conducted an activity in which we were given seven news articles that we had to decide upon their outlet, the presence of news values and the possible presence of new news values. I worked with Sally for this activity and we came up with a wide selection of new news values that we felt were important in the current news climate. One that stood out to both of us was 'terrorism'. Ever since the 9/11 terrorist attack, the salience associated with possible further terrorist attacks or terrorist attempts has proven vital in agenda setting.
Along with terrorism, we felt 'health' and 'reigion' were also two very influential news values that deserved recognition by theorists.

I enjoyed this tutorial, it has transformed the way in which I interpret and understand news in conjunction with the values of the news. 

15.05.2012 

Agenda Setting - How the media 'constructs reality'

The tenth lecture in this journalism course was centred around the agenda setting of news. Ultimately, this theory is said to mediate the social world in constructing public opinion on certain issues.
The lecture began by watching a short video by BBC Four journalist, Charlie Brooker (shown below).

I really enjoyed this little clip. It was almost like a template for any good news story, and at times it was a bit humorous. I was thinking about what news stations I feel uses this 'template'. A Current Affair (one of my favourite news channels) seemed to be a main user in a lot of their stories. This 'template' allows for a diversity in opinion and facts, which seems important in a news story.

From this clip, it was discussed of the media's influence in the social construction of reality. 'Reality exists, but the way we come to know it, talk about it, understand it, is mediated through social life.' From this, I began to consider how influential the media actually is in issues they portray. So, what is journalisms role in constructing public opinion? They hold all the power in determining opinion. This News clip is about the abduction of Jaycee Lee Dugard. The way ABC News portrays Phillip Garrido, sentenced sexual offender, as a horrible and disgusting man (all which is very true). The media does an excellent job of educating the public and positioning this man badly to the public. The clip is shown below.

Powerful stuff.

We spoke about the interrelated Agendas, being public agenda (topics that members of the public perceive as important), policy agenda (issues that decision makers think are salient, ie. legislators), corporate agenda (issues that big businesses and corporations consider important, eg. coal seam gas) and finally the media agenda (issues discussed in the media). They all work together in forming an element of importance in the pubic eye.

"Agenda setting is the process of the mass media presenting certain issues frequently and prominently with the result that large segments of the public come to perceive those issues as more important than others. Simply put, the more coverage an issues receives, the more important it is to people." 

-Coleman, McCombs, Shaw, Wever, 2008-

We looked at this image as a representation of agenda setting in the media. This image compares the relationship between reality and media reality, the media's sense of reality and the influence of this on a public perceptive - what the pubic actually thinks reality is. It directly identifies that the media shapes the way issues are understood with attributes paid to the media who provide information/importance.

I felt this image gave meaning to how important a certain issue is in the media in regard to the amount of attention paid to it.

Attention was brought to the two main assumptions of media agenda setting.

1. The mass media do not merely reflect and report reality, they filter and shape it.

2. Media concentration on a few issues and subjects leads the public to perceive those issues as more important than other issues.

I feel both assumptions are evident in media agenda setting in the current climate. The more attention that is brought to an issue - the more important it is regarded by the public. This is very evident with Climate Change and the Carbon tax. This lecture made it clear that the first mention this issue was made to the public back in 1988, and from then, its importance in society has never faded. Al Gore's, An Inconvenient Truth, released in 2006, is a prime example of the continuing impact of climate change talk throughout society and the media. The media has made this issue an important one.

This is the trailer to Al Gore's documentary - it is clear why the media and public see this issue as being of primary concern. 

The origins of agenda setting dates back nearly a century. It was in the 1920s that Harold Lasswell came up with the Hypodermic needle model. I understood this model as being a metaphor in the mass media "injecting" direct influence into the audience. It was so accurate - the media has formed so much purpose in defining the means in which information is given to an audience. 

The model appeared as below.

From this model, it becomes so evident of the development and power in propaganda in the media. Walter Lippman spoke of the media creating images of events in the publics mind. I thought about this idea and how correct Mr Lippman really was. When I think of 9/11 I think of a single image - an image that has defined that day to me for countless years. It is the image of The Falling Man. 

For me, this image is September 11. I don't see a man committing suicide - a see a man plummeting to his death unwillingly, a man being forced to die due to the terrorist attack of this day.

'Propaganda is used as a tool to help shape images in the minds of human beings in support of an enterprise, idea or group. Propaganda can be used to substitute one social pattern for another."

This lecture highlighted two main types of agenda setting theory, being;

1st Level - media suggests what the public should focus on through coverage.

2nd Level - media suggests how people should think about an issue. 

Both levels seem so important in the media. In regard to the 1st Level, I understand it as the medias responsibility in what is actually delivered to the public. It ultimately is centred around the content of the information shown. For the 2nd Level, it is all about the position the media takes in portraying an issue to the public. If the media wishes for its audience to feel negatively about a subject, therefore they would deliver it in that way. 

I found this very clear in the coverage of OJ Simpson's case. Our lecture showed the cover of two magazines with his photo on the front.

Even though both photos portray him rather negatively, it is very clear of the varying approach both magazines took. I found this predominately evident in the titles of the article pieces. 

I found this notion of 'Agenda Setting' quite interesting actually. Even though the basic content of the topic was very obvious, I loved the power in which came with the media. In learning of 'The Agenda Setting Family' it became so evident of the degree in power they hold. This family consisted of:

1. Media Gateway (the exposure of an issue)

2. Media Advocacy (the purposive promotion of a message)

3. Agenda Cutting (most of the truth or reality that is going on in the world isn't represented)

4. Agenda Surfing (media follows the crowd and trends)

5. Diffusion of News (how an important event is communicated to the public)

6. Portrayal of an Issue (the way an issue is portrayed will often influence how it is perceived by the public). 

7. Media Dependence (the more dependent a person is on the media for information, the more susceptible that person is to media agenda setting). 

In looking at the influence of 'Agenda Surfing', it was clear of its presence in the media. The way in which the media follows trends in what is being covered by varying media outlets powerfully determines this media agenda. A prime example of this is KONY2012. This YouTube clip seemed to go viral overnight, it was almost as if everyone knew about it and wanted to put it to a stop. Such a powerful promotion of Agenda setting.

Media Agenda setting is very powerful, however it relation to its strengths it does instigate many weaknesses. 

Strengths include:

-explanatory power

-predictive power

-organising power

-proven false

-its media-theoretical assumptions are balanced on the scientific side

-it lays groundwork for further research

Weaknesses include:

-people may only pay casual attention to public affair issues

-people may have already made up their mind on an issue

-news cannot adapt an issue, but instead promote awareness of its salience 

And so, it is proven that:

The importance of an issue on the media agenda determines how the public agenda is formed. 

14.05.2012

Assessment FOUR

JOUR1111 Annotated Bibliography 

- Assessment Four -

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Journalism is a fundamental element in the portrayal of accurate and detailed information on an event or issue to the public. However the means in doing so effectively and factually is of paramount importance in providing the right news to the world. This annotated bibliography will cite four varying media sources surrounding the mystery disappearance of missing now nine-year-old girl, Madeleine McCann. The mediums studied include Kerry O’Brien’s BBC Four Corners interview with Jim Gamble, the Guardian newspapers article, the Mail Online and finally an academic paper on the ‘Child Abduction Policy: Influenced by Media Coverage...’ by Glenn W. Muschert, PHD, Melissa Young-Spillers, MS and Dawn Carr, MGS. These four sources will ultimately portray varying uncovering’s of credibility, validation and accuracy due to the means in which the media information is provided.

Laville, S. (2012, April 25). Madeleine McCann could be living with abductor, says Scotland Yard. The Guardian. Retrieved from http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2012/apr/25/madeleine-mccann-yard-case

The United Kingdom’s Guardian newspaper journalist, Sandra Laville, reported on the disappearance of Madeleine McCann based on current statements and actions of the Scotland Yard detectives. The article revolves around the attention brought to the unresolved case after the release of a picture of what Madeleine McCann may look like today as new information is attempted to be uncovered. Laville, the crime correspondent for the Guardian newspaper, has drawn on many credible persons in her written article. Having used quotes from the Detective Chief Inspector, Andy Redwood, of Scotland Yard’s homicide and serious crime command, as well as Commander Simon Foy, the head of homicide command and finally a quote from Jim Gamble in his interview with Kerry O’Brien, it becomes apparent of the degree to which of investigation in gaining credibility in this article. The accuracy and degree of information is not suppressed to the reader, which ultimately forces its salient content to resonate with the reader. The Guardian Newspaper is a very well-known and appreciated news outlet which has been effectively portrayed in the release of this article and its height in content.

Bilton, R. (2012, May 17). [Television Program]. Sydney, NSW: BBC Four Corners.

In this interview, Four Corners reporter Kerry O’Brien speaks to Jim Gamble in regard to the reopening of the Madeleine McCann case. The BBC News channel, in which Four Corners is viewed on, functions as a form of public media. As public media is all about the publics right to information, this channel requires intelligent and educated persons to appear to provide the audience with this right. In introducing Jim Gamble to the program, O’Brien speaks of the guests credibility. He draws on Mr. Gamble being a former senior Scotland Yard investigator, the leader in the British National Crime Intelligence Service fight against child abuse, and the head of the Child Exploitation and Online Protection Centre within the UK police (where he did some analysis for the Portuguese police early in the investigation of Madeleine’s disappearance). This ultimately provides the audience with a detailed explanation to why this man deserves to be listened to. Throughout the interview Gamble provides great detail of the police’s willingness and hope in finding Madeleine McCann in this horror case, this adds a sense of humility to the interview in a bid for the audience to further appreciate the interviewee and the network. The BBC further promotes credibility and validation to its audience in the use of Kerry O’Brien as a host due to his well-known talent due to his 46 years in the industry.

Smith, G. (2012, May 8). Groggy girl identical to Madeleine McCann spotted at Costa del Sol campsite just three days after she went missing. Online Mail. Retreieved from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2141100/Madeleine-McCann-spotted-Costa-del-Sol-campsite-3-days-went-missing.html

This online news site provides a 24-hour news cycle. This new form of media allows for constant updating, editing and reader input with commenting and forums. The Mail Online site published an article by journalist Graham Smith in regard to a possible sighting of Madeleine McCann three days after she was claimed to be missing. As this article was only published as of the 8 May 2012, the credibility of the source used becomes very questionable. Five years since her disappearance, it would seem strange that such statements are only coming to the surface now. Further, the source remains unnamed for the piece, which fails to provide the reader with confidence in the source. However, with the reopening of the case (in which many elements were overlooked prior to it being closed) it is almost certain that more possible sightings, like this, will be investigated more fully and become available to the public eye. Although the credibility of the source is uncertain, the site is very popular- having a Mail Online iTunes Application available for download by the general public. The accuracy in detail and validity of the finding seems vacant in the piece – however Graham Smith has used effective language in attempting to make the audience believe this sighting was definitely Madeleine. Ultimately, the credibility of the site outweighs the audiences lack of belief in the story – the site makes the reader believe its content.

Carr, D & Muschert, G.W & Young-Spillers, M. (2005). Child Abduction Policy – Influenced by Media Coverage or Empirical Data? Retrieved from http://www.drc.ohio.gov/web/reports/MuschertPaperRevised.pdf

Glenn W. Muschert, Melissa Young-Spillers and Dawn Carr are all academics at the University of Miami. All three academic professors bring years of study and education to their academic article titled ‘Child Abduction Policy – Influenced by Media Coverage or Empirical Data?’ In this article it is discussed of the representation of ‘horror stories’ (being disturbing cases of child abduction) in the light of the media. The shock disappearance of Madeleine McCann is a prime example of a horror abduction story. The authors speak of ‘high profile cases’ and their ability to spark national attention (an element that is paramount in the presentation of news and current affairs). ‘Horror stories have come to typify the child abduction problem in the contemporary public discourse’ – this is evident in the portrayal of news in current times. The application of the quote ‘if it bleeds, it leads’ comes into context with child abductions. These horror stories have evolved into forming a common assumption to the audience that when a child goes missing they are almost certainly being used for sexual exploitation and then to be murdered by the stranger. However as the article outlines, ‘child abductions … are strongly exemplified via news media coverage…’ Therefore Muschert, Young-Spillers and Carr attempt to alter the public discourse about such a social problem. The credibility of this academic article is heightened throughout due to the degree in citation of other leading professors in this field of study.

It is made clearly apparent of the influential talent of the media in the portrayal and continued coverage of the Madeleine McCann case. The degree to which the media continually brings information regarding her disappearance to the surface undoubtedly promotes progress in discovering closure.

Journalists are powerful people in providing truths to the public – truths that all humans have a right to. 

News Values.

"News values are one of the most opaque structures of meaning in modern society... Journalists speak of "the news" as if events select themselves... Yet of the millions of events which occur daily in the world, only a tiny proportion ever become visible as "potential news stories": and of this proportion, only a small fraction are actually produced as the day's news" - Stuart Hall 1973-

News have so much value. The value is found in what we deem important to be told to an audience. 

In the ninth lecture, it was looked at news values and variations of newsworthiness according to many leading journalists.

The four main points of News Values included:

1. Impact - things that makes a reader/audience say 'GEE WIZZ"!

2. Audience identification - events happening in area of the culture that would be of interest.

3. Pragmatics - ethics

4. Source influence - "Journalism loves to hate PR... whether for spinning, controlling access, appraising copy, or protecting clients at the expense of the truth. Yet journalism has never needed public relations more, and PR has never done a better job for the media." - Julia Hobsbawn, UK PR Executive-

These four values are crucial in news journalism. I love impact in news stories. Even though the below clip is from 2008, I feel it really is very impacting. It brings nervousness to the audience and therefore is highly interesting.

According to TV Veteran John Sergeant, 'Journalists reply on instinct rather than logic when it comes to the defining of a sense of news values." (2001).
I felt this became incredibly evident when looking at Galtung and Ruge's '12+ Factors' of newsworthiness from 1965. They had ultimately analysed international news to discover common factors and news agenda's, in order to understand why certain stories lead a TV or radio bulletin. They were as follows:
1. Negativity - bad news (death, tragedy)
2. Closeness to home (proximity) - stories that are close to audience geographically.
3. Recency - breaking news!
4. Currency - stories that have been in public eye for some time are deemed valuable.
5. Continuity - events with a continuing impact (war)
6. Uniqueness - covering a unique or unusual event.
7. Simplicity - easy to explain stories.
8. Personality - Human Interest stories
9. Expectedness (Predictability) - the story matches the expectations of a news organisation and its audience.
10. Elite nations or people - covering important, powerful nations and people.
11. Exclusivity - you want to be the only news organisation covering a story!
12. SIZE - the bigger impact a story has, the more people it affects. (Size does matter in journalism!)

Galtung and Ruge were on the money. All these elements are so important when it comes to News Values and Worthiness. While listening to this lecture, I could easily automatically think of a news story I had recently seen that fitted the criteria of at least one of these values.
Further, Galtung and Ruge brought about three hypotheses (1965) in regard to newsworthiness.
1. Additivity - the more factors an event satisfies, the higher the probability is will become news.
2. Complementarity - the factors will tend to exclude each other.
3. Exclusion - the events that satisfy none or very few of the factors will usually not become news.

It was mentioned in our lecture of the Royal Wedding being a prime example of the additivity hypothesis. It included an elite nation, currency, elements of personality and size.

Following in the footsteps of Galtung and Ruge, came Golding and Elliot's News Values (1979).
-drama
-visual attractiveness
-entertainment
-importance
-size
-proximity
-negativity
-brevity
-recency
-elites
-personalities

Then came Lanson, Gerald and Mitchell Stephens 1994 variation.
-impact
-weight
-controversy
-emotion
-the unusual
-prominence
-proximity
-timeliness
-currency
-usefulness
-educational value

Then O'Neill and Harcup in 2001
-The Power Elite
-Celebrity
-Entertainment
-Surprise
-Bad News
-Good News
-Magnitude
-Relevance
-Follow-up
-Newspaper Agenda

All these values linked so closely to each other that it became very clear of the expectations and values in news journalism.
I feel my favourite outline of news values were by Murray Masterson (1995) which he called the "Big 6" News Values.
1. Significance - IMPACT! (I LOVE IMPACT)
2. Proximity - location plus emotional, historical, cultural and social significance.
3. Conflict - war, government, celebrities, sport, neighbourhood fights (classic ACA coverage, just what I love).
4. Human interest - nothing better than getting involved in other people's success
5. Novelty - a bit of something unusual
6. Prominence - high profile people.
The all relate so well to exactly what I love in my news. These "Big 6" emulate my approach to news broadcasting.

Another element covered in this lecture was the possible threats to newsworthiness. Ultimately they were the effect of the lazy, incompetent journalist who is untrustworthy and misleading, the hyper-commericialisation of the media where what is read and seen is very controlling, and finally, the influence of Public Relations in what is told to the public.

I found this lecture very educational in regard to what is actually expected in delivering news. I guess in a way it is all very obvious, however the application of appropriate news values is crucial in delivering a perfected news story. I hope to be able to capture this ability in the near future. Hopefully I don't have any of this happen below..

30.04.2012

Our Sex and Our City.

Today we watched Sex and the City (for the billionth time) and we did what all girls do and allocate a person to each other.
It was so easy to find similarities in each one of my friends to that of one of the four girl friends.

25.04.2012

Ethics - Are they really present?

What is really ethical or unethical, and what is in good taste and in bad taste?

Today's lecture looked at ethics. We viewed and marked 10 photos on their degree of ethicality and whether they be suitable for the public view.

One of the pictures that really struck me was Windsor Smith's advertisement for a selection of their men's shoes.

The image on the left of the advertisement shows absolutely no interest or focus on mens shoes, but instead privileges a highly sexual action. Windsor Smith has ultimately portrayed that by wearing his shoes you will too have the girls down on their knees for you.. A thought that is far from true.

Sure I like a man in nice shoes, but I don't like them that much.

When this advertisement first went public it was complained about fiercely and it was deemed that in no way did it actually attempt to advertise shoes. It is so true.

It was claimed that it did not meet community standards, however Windsor Smith refused to act on this and remove the advertisement. From this, they gained even more publicity. Smart move on Windsor Smith's behalf! In all, Windsor Smith over $43million worth of advertising for only releasing 6 billboards. 

After looking at advertisements, we further went into the ethics of commercial advertising. The Australian Tourism Ad "Where the blood hell are you?" was included.

This ad was banded in the United Kingdom because of the use of the word "bloody" being deemed highly inappropriate. It is amazing to think that such a causally used word in Australian culture, is far from the norm in another country. 

After looking at such forms of ethics in advertising, we went into the three different ethical theories of deontology(rules, principles and duties), consequentialism (getting a good or right outcome that matters) and virtue ethics (that "goodness" comes from good habits of character).

I feel that in the media it is of primary importance to hold virtue ethics. You need to have a good character when dealing with issues of discretion to make sure the right decision is made.
As a journalist, and as a person, I want to be a person of good character.

23.04.2012

My Blue Shoes

I added a new pair of shoes to my wardrobe a week ago. The sat comfortably next to my television for days and days. I often found it more interesting to watch them instead of the programs my aerial allowed me to watch.

They were beautiful.

They were the strongest royal blue I had ever seen and were made out of the smoothest swede ever. Carrie Bradshaw would be proud!

I wore them for the first time last night and they captured one of my greatest experiences since entering college life.

A single pair of shoes gave character to my simple black dress. These beautifully blue shoes were the essence of my entire outfit.

The night I wore my special blue shoes was the night of our College Ball. All the girls and guys looked stunning. I wasn't noticing any of the dresses to be completely honest, but instead their shoes.

One girl was wearing these beautiful hot pink pumps - mesmerising! 

Two of my friends had on the most sparkly shoes ever and they were gorgeous. With one in gold and the other in silver, they both proved how capable they are of pulling of sparkles. I loved them! I will be definitely investing in a pair.

My blue shoes captured a memory. They captured a moment where I was completely happy and with some of the greatest people I am yet to meet.

21.04.2012

Factual Story Telling - Assessment Three

-The Pain of Cheerleading-

BY Antonia Teale

Laura Harris before local competition.

Having been left with damaged ankles, broken fingers and toes, a body of bruisers and a voice similar to that of Darren Lockyer – Laura Harris has felt the punch with the competitiveness of cheerleading.

Cheerleading is not just a hobby for the pompom enthusiastic Laura Harris. It is the love and passion within her cheer school of Adrenalin Cheer and Dance that has developed major recognition across Australia, and even worldwide. Having participated in over 24 cheerleading competitions, over the past five years, has definitely left its mark on this teen’s body and her understanding of team spirit! The damage and danger in cheerleading has turned this original form of leading cheers at football games to a highly competitive and potentially bone-breaking elite sport.

Laura was first introduced to cheerleading after spending over 8 years participating in competitive gymnastics. Her love for flips, cartwheels, somersaults and leg splits left a constant strain on the body - a strain that she was forced to push through. “Gymnastics was no walk in the park! If I wasn’t at school, I was at gymnastics” said Laura in a recent interview.

It was when Miss Harris entered high school education that she was subjected to the idea of cheerleading, telling us “It was mum who really got me into cheerleading. She found an advertisement in the local newspaper and had signed me up before I even had a chance to consider it … I love her for it”.

With cheerleading taking up a majority of her evenings and weekends, she stopped gymnastics in order to pursue this dance sport.

Laura and Zoe showing their winning medals and trophies.

Only one year into cheerleading and Laura had already received scholarships and the title of the best gymnast and best flier of her cheer school. However, none of this came without pain. Countless knee injuries and swollen fingers came with her success as a cheerleader, with the ice-pack and crutches becoming her greatest enemy. Laura told us that, “As I was the flier of my cheer team, the ‘Vipers’, I was some times dropped when we were learning new lifts. I definitely felt that the morning after!” 
Being thrown into the air was hardly the safest activity for a young teenager, however the constant pain in gymnastics effectively prepared her body for the falls of cheerleading. The pain in cheerleading followed through Miss Harris’s voice box, “…it was almost after every cheer competition that I was left with a croaky and very manly voice,” Laura told us.

Members of Laura's cheer squad.

It was the four years Laura spent as a ‘Viper’ that she learnt of the value of friendship in a cheer squad, “we were the epitome of friendship. We were all so close and all had the same dream of winning that when we trained and did something wrong, people didn’t take it to heart when we pointed it out”.

The commitment each team member had to the squad never went unrewarded with the ‘Vipers’ taking out the Australian National Cheerleading title in 2009, which took them to Hawaii, U.S, in 2010. It was in Hawaii that Laura was faced with her first major cheerleading injury.   
                                                                                                                  

“We were doing our stunt routine so good when my ankle just completely gave way. It honestly felt like it was no longer part of my body,” says Miss Harris, “I had to control everything in my body to not breakdown and start screaming”. 
Coach of the ‘Vipers’, Kelly Tandy, says “I didn’t even notice Laura’s injury at the time. She was cheering her heart out and I couldn’t see any pain in her eyes or moves”. 
Laura finished this routine, “I couldn’t let down my team, and I didn’t want that on my shoulders”. Laura told us that soldiering on was possibly one of the hardest things she ever had to do as a cheerleader. She knew how hard her team had worked to perfect this routine and she knew they had the power to win. They did win. The ‘Vipers’ were deemed the winners of both the stunt and pompom routine in Hawaii, with Laura leaving the event in crutches and with a very swollen ankle. “It was so worth it. I couldn’t imagine just giving up. My ankle wasn’t going to beat me”.

Laura was in crutches for many weeks following the Worldwide Cheerleading Championships, however she was also able to proudly gloat of their stunt routine win. “Cheerleading is so unrecognized in Australia. It is a real hard competition when we go over to compete against American teams where it is valued so much more … we didn’t win the Worldwide Cheerleading title, but we sure did show the very talented American teams what Australia has got!”

Adrenalin's Australian Cheerleading teams in Hawaii.

There didn’t seem to be much more for Laura to damage in herself with cheerleading leaving a definite mark of the effect of power and determination in a cheer squad.

Adrenalin Cheer and Dance took out the title for a consecutive forth year of National Champions in 2011 and received a bid to travel to Florida for the 2013 Worldwide Cheerleading National titles. “I have never been so proud of my cheer squad! They work so hard for these titles ... Only bit of advice I can give is, do not break any bones!” says the very proud, cheerleading enthusiast, Laura Harris.

Adrenalin are expected in Brisbane on the 23^rd and 24^th of September to compete for their National Championship title for a fifth year. GO ADRENALIN!

Laura's Cheer team showing what they received at the Australian National Championships in 2011.

The Insensitive Media

I had to attend today's tutorial at 8am.. It was very difficult to wake up for and I really missed the comfort of my normal tute class held at a reasonable time (being noon).
Despite being highly exhausted and wanting to do nothing but lay my head on the desk and sleep away the following two hours, I found myself actually listening to what the tutor had to say (crazy, I know!). As she wasn't my normal tutor, I wasn't completely sure what to expect of her lessons. However I did enjoy her structure, however I think I am going to stay a top fan of my noon tutorial class.
She showed a clip that grabbed me. It was about pushing your limits as a journalist. If can be found at: http://www.abc.net.au/mediawatch/transcripts/s3424273.htm
I was left in shock after this clip. How could the media really be so insensitive? I guess the simple answer is that it sells. As long as money is coming in, why bother with following cultural sensitivities?
It was disgraceful really. Never do I want to become so desperate as a journalist that I feel obliged to make false assumptions about individuals. That is just completely immoral.
During this tutorial, it was also spoken of our upcoming assessment. We were shown a clip called Caine's Arcade.It is shown below:

It was so beautiful. It brought a tear to my eye. I loved his passion, I loved the music, I loved the filming. It was so beautifully written and produced that I automatically felt obliged to make my factual story something worth watching!
We also tested our interviewing skills. I had been to a press conference before so I knew what to expect, but I did enjoy learning a lot about the people in this tutorial as I only knew a few people. Some times you just have to throw a million questions out there till you get the answer you want!
17.04.2012

Public Media

"In general, media whose mission is to serve or engage a public. Public media includes traditional publicly-funded broadcasts and networks... as well as public uses of new platforms and distribution mechanisms, such as the Internet, podcasting, blogging. Increasingly the term "public media" is less associated with taxpayer supported media; it may be for profit so long as its ultimate purpose is to serve the public and not to turn a profit." WGBH Educational Foundation Conference, Open Content and Public Broadcasting (19-21.09.06).

I love this definition of the Public Media. I feel it addresses only a very minuet element of the media these days though. Like come on, everything seems like it is for profit these days - but no, not public media.
Public media, to me, seems to be all about serving the public. The public has a right to information - information that is brought to them by such public media forms as the ABC and SBS news channels, SBS and ABC radio stations, as well as NHK (Japan), NPR and PBS (US), TVNZ (New Zealand), DR (Germany), CBC (Canada) and RTHK (Hong Kong). Sure these company are bringing in money, but it is found that its ultimate purpose is to serve the public ad not to turn a profit.
Searching "public media" on YouTube found over fifteen immediate public media channels. This just proved of its purpose in serving the community.

Further, this lecture looked at public medias's role in a democratic society. According to BBC, it was outlined that this media form requires public values, such as:
1. embed a 'public service ethics'
2. value for licence fee money
3. 'weighing public value against market impact'
4. Public consultation (e.g. Should the ABC have more documentaries?)

The lecture went into detail about what the ABC actually provides the public with. It mentioned the ABC News 24 (which is apparently quite dodgey) as well as ABC Channel 2 and 3, the ABC Local radio, radio national, classicFM and Triple J! I fee I ABC really fits the geographical universality (outlined by a 1985 broadcasting research unit who defined public service broadcasting) through being, "A tacit answer to the kind of nation we thought we ought to be". ABC provides the public with accurate and professional information! (I hope..)

SBS was also spoken of. It was addressed to provide multilingual and multicultural radio and television services that inform, educate and entertain all Australians and, in doing so, reflect Australia's multicultural society. I like this idea of this. I like the diversity in culture and this makes me admire SBS a little bit more.

Having addressed the function and form of Commercial media in last weeks lecture, it was time to learn it all for Public media. The functions of Public media included national building (NBC -communication and getting the entire community together), national heritage (ANZAC Day coverage) and national identity (who we are as individuals).
I felt that all these functions strived on national service and not company profit building systems. I loved that! Media functioning on service rather than money seemed so ironic!

This lecture did also acknowledge the challenges for public media as well as the future of public media which I found highly interesting. However, as soon as the conversation turned into government and political information, I just completely zoned out.. Bad idea.
However I did learn that 'Commercial pressures for one = Political pressures for the other' and 'Perceived lack of political independence = more control and more targeted funding'!

Intelligent man. I like how passionate he is!

16.02.2012

Commercial Media

Commercial Media is a profit-driven form of media production. The main reason to why commercial media exists is due to its love for the dosh! (money). The lecture defined commercial media as 'eyeballs and ears to advertisers'. This is predominately due to the fact that 'advertisers are the real customers of  commercial media organisation'. It was further outlined of commercial media being non-government funded and therefore its survival or failure is determined by the businesses success.
Such commercial media forms include News Limited, FairFax Media, APN, Nine Entertainment, WIN Corporation, Southern Cross broadcasting, Seven West Media and Ten, as well as Telstra, Optus and Austar. Each of these media corporations further produce varying media forms, for example the Nine Entertainment Co also contribute to commercial media through Free to Air TV, magazines, digital media and events (including WIN News, ninemsn, Women's Weekly and tickek.com).

Our lecture further went into the form and function of Commercial media.
The form of commercial media included subscription media (e.g. Foxtel), sponsored media (e.g. Nine network) and subsidised media (e.g. government $$$$). The function of media including commercial (Austar), Propaganda (Fox News) and social (supporting local areas). I started a YouTube search of a form of propaganda media and I came across a new song my Katy Perry. It is called Part of Me and the film clip shows her joining the marines in order to get over a heartbreak. Below is a segment I found that showed of the power of propaganda in the media.

So, what is Commercial Media's role in a democratic society?
It was questioned in the lecture whether commercial media can deliver on both a commercial (profit) and social ("public trust") levels, or if it is really just about the mighty dollar. I would have to say that I do have a great element of trust in the media. I believe what they tell me, even when I probably shouldn't. When thinking about the power the news has over our minds, I considered the YouTube channel 'Onion News' (ultimately a fake newsroom that reports of fictional stories very seriously). Here is an example:

Are we really expected to believe that?

This lecture also taught me of the ways in which commercial media can be controlled. It was mentioned of the "ethical wall" - ultimately following ethical decisions in considering journalistic power and equality. I felt that this really was not enough for most journalist - those journalists that will stop at nothing to be the first to uncover some crazy information. We really do need new elements of control on commercial media. It was brought up of regulating content, state/press subsides and the need of licensed journalists (primarily in Indonesia). I thought these were good ideas, but would they really stop commercial media going into a total profit-driven frenzy where the truth just did not matter? who knows..

This lecture really opened my mind up to the degree of profit in commercial media. Sure I knew about the rivalry between such channels as Seven and Win, but had it gone too far? All consumers really want is a credible source for their news updates..

02.04.2012

Value of Photography

I was thinking about a single photo that would say a story about me - one single photo that would open a factual story about myself. Maybe I could use a photo from a memorable occasion, or maybe a photo with my friends at college, or maybe a photo of me with my family.. my ideas were endless.
But then I was looking through my current photos, my new photos of recent events. These were the photos that really defined me at the moment. I looked at them and I automatically remembered the night they captured - whether it be highly embarrassing experience or a night of fun with my closest friends.
This is when I really valued the power of photography.

Story Time

USE YOUR IMAGINATION TO MAKE SOMETHING OUT OF NOTHING

Our second tutorial was all about the power of a photography in telling a story. I found it all very interesting. I love this ability for a single photo to determine everything about the content of a story. I guess in a way it was kind of obvious; for example a picture of a man playing football would be expected to be about a man who plays football.
We participated in an exercise where we were given a story idea that we had to decide on a photo for. I was partnered with Sally again and I personally think we had a great picture idea - it got me really pumped to cover the story! Our story was called "Daytona Demon Damien heads for Dayboro" with a sub-line of "Shiny as silver, red as a cherry and black as sin". Our first instinct was to have the massive monster truck over a line of 'normal' vehicles to really enhance the size of the truck. We also wanted to include Damien in the image to further show how big the truck really is. Our photo was really going to depict this story and would function really well in conjunction with the headline.

We also went into discussion about our upcoming piece of assessment. It was all about factual storytelling and I got thinking about a story I had read online. It was an essay, although it lacked fact it was very humorously capturing. It is located below:

What I like the most about this online essay, found on funnyexamanswers.com, is that there is absolutely no picture yet the depth in visual representation through storytelling is so vivid. 

I don't think this is at all what is expected in my second assessment, but (if it was factual) Jimmy McPerson has been made out of nothing - just like a story in a photograph. 

27.03.2012