Much has happened to the shape and definition of news as it moved from print into the electronic media. Search the Web for history timelines of the news industry or go directly to the Center for History and New Media, http://chnm.gmu.edu.* Select a news event that occurred at least 20 years ago and compare how the impact of that story would change if it happened today. Identify the major differences and similarities of how news was perceived in the past compared to today.
Industry
Web Excursion
Recently when, Americans were asked to name the journalist they most admired, the comedian Jon Stewart of "The Daily Show" was number four on the list. The show has been notable for covering news and politics in a satirical format, while revealing insights into the human condition. Visit the web pages of "The Daily Show" with Jon Stewart, http://www.thedailyshow.com/index.jhtml, * and the "The Colbert Report" with Stephen Colbert, http://www.colbertnation.com/home *, a parody of a conservative political pundit, (both on the Comedy Central channel), and observe how each personality delivers today's top stories. Then visit a general news site such as www.cnn.com or www.latimes.com and search for the same stories. How does the presentation differ? Compile a brief report on your findings.
Citizen journalism is changing the way media reports the news. This phenomenon has grown with the development of consumer technology, such as camera cell phones, and with the use of blogs and vlogs on the Internet. The MSNBC.com website has a page requesting "Citizen Journalist" reports, and giving instructions for how to submit them, http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6639760/. Sites like www.youtube.com provide a method for citizens to post their political opinions and other information, potentially to be seen by millions of viewers. Have you participated in citizen journalism? Do a web search of media outlets that accept news reports from citizens.
Controversies
Web Excursion
Media coverage of the personal crises of young stars such as Lindsay Lohan, Britney Spears, and Paris Hilton in recent years has highlighted the issue of news as entertainment. Pick a current news event concerning a celebrity and search sites like www.accesshollywood.com, www.mtv.com, www.cnn.com, http://abcnews.go.com/nightline, and www.latimes.com.* Compare and contrast how these news outlets present the story. Explain when and why a story should be considered both news and entertainment.
*Some Web site addresses may change. When they do, please search for the Web site by name or topic on your favorite search engine.
