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A.

ETYMOLOGY & DEFINITION


The term "journalism" has its roots in the Latin word "diurnalis," meaning "daily." It
evolved from the Latin word "diurnus," which means "daily" or "of the day." In medieval Latin,
the term "diurnale" referred to a daily register or diary kept by officials or clerics. The modern
definition of journalism can be broadly described as the activity of gathering, assessing, creating,
and presenting news and information to the public. Journalists are individuals who engage in this
activity professionally or as part of their occupation. They investigate and report on events,
issues, and stories to inform and educate the public about current affairs. Journalism
encompasses various forms of media, including print, broadcast, online, and multimedia
platforms.
It involves research, fact-checking, interviewing, and writing to convey accurate and
balanced news to the audience. Journalists often adhere to ethical guidelines and principles, such
as objectivity, fairness, accuracy, and accountability, to ensure the integrity of their work. The
role of journalism is essential in providing citizens with reliable and timely information,
promoting transparency, and holding those in power accountable. Journalists cover a wide range
of topics, including politics, economics, science, culture, sports, and more. They often strive to
uncover stories that may have a significant impact on society and to provide a voice for
marginalized or underrepresented communities.It's worth noting that journalism is a dynamic
field that has evolved alongside technological advancements and changes in media consumption
habits.
The rise of digital platforms and social media has brought new challenges and
opportunities for journalists, shaping the way news is produced, distributed, and consumed in
today's media landscape. Journalism can be defined as the practice of collecting, investigating,
and reporting news, events, and information through various media channels, such as
newspapers, magazines, radio, television, and online platforms. Journalists aim to provide
accurate, timely, and objective accounts of current affairs, often through interviews, research,
and firsthand observation.
Journalism involves several key principles and responsibilities, including:
 Objectivity: Journalists strive to present information in a neutral and impartial manner,
separating facts from opinions and avoiding personal biases.
 Accuracy: Journalists are expected to verify the accuracy of the information they report
by conducting thorough research, fact-checking, and seeking multiple sources.
 Independence: Journalists should maintain independence from external influences, such
as political or corporate interests, to ensure unbiased reporting.
 Accountability: Journalists are accountable for their work and should be transparent
about their sources, methods, and any conflicts of interest.
 Public Interest: Journalism serves the public by informing, educating, and engaging
readers, listeners, or viewers on matters of significance and relevance.
Different forms of journalism exist, including investigative journalism, feature writing,
opinion pieces, photojournalism, broadcast journalism, and online journalism. The advent of
digital technologies and the internet has significantly impacted the practice of journalism,
allowing for real-time reporting, interactive storytelling, and global distribution of news.
However, the core principles of journalism, such as truth, accuracy, and accountability, remain
crucial regardless of the medium used.

B. HISTORY OF THE DISCIPLINE


The history of journalism dates back centuries, with the practice of gathering and
disseminating news evolving alongside the development of writing, printing, and communication
technologies. Here is a broad overview of the history of journalism:
 Ancient Times: Journalism traces its roots to ancient civilizations like ancient Egypt,
Mesopotamia, and Rome. Early forms of news dissemination included carved stone
tablets, papyrus scrolls, and handwritten manuscripts. These mediums were primarily
used for recording significant events, religious ceremonies, and trade transactions.
 Early Newspapers: The concept of newspapers began to emerge in the 16th century with
the invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg. The first printed news sheets,
known as "corantos," appeared in Europe during the late 16th century. These sheets
provided updates on wars, politics, and other noteworthy events.
 17th and 18th Centuries: The 17th and 18th centuries saw the establishment of regular
newspapers in various countries. Notable publications include "The London Gazette"
(1665) and "The Boston News-Letter" (1704), considered to be the first continuously
published newspaper in North America. These early newspapers focused on political
news, trade information, and opinion pieces.
 Rise of Journalism as a Profession: In the 19th century, journalism began to
professionalize. Industrialization, urbanization, and increased literacy rates led to a higher
demand for news. Journalists started to adhere to ethical standards and form professional
organizations. Newsgathering techniques improved, and the inverted pyramid style of
news writing, emphasizing the most important information first, became popular.
 Investigative Journalism: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, investigative
journalism gained prominence. Journalists like Nellie Bly and Ida B. Wells exposed
corruption, social injustices, and political scandals. Investigative reporting aimed to
uncover hidden truths and hold powerful institutions accountable.
 Technological Advancements: The 20th century witnessed significant technological
advancements that revolutionized journalism. The telegraph allowed for faster news
transmission, followed by radio broadcasting, which brought news and information to a
wider audience. Television became a dominant medium in the mid-20th century, enabling
visual storytelling and live reporting.
 Digital Age: The advent of the internet in the late 20th century and the subsequent rise of
digital technologies transformed journalism. Online news websites, blogs, and social
media platforms offered new avenues for news consumption and citizen journalism.
News became more accessible, interactive, and immediate.

Today, journalism continues to evolve in response to technological advancements and
changing audience preferences. The digital age presents both opportunities and challenges,
including concerns about misinformation, the business model of journalism, and the role of
social media platforms. Nonetheless, the fundamental principles of journalism, such as accuracy,
objectivity, and serving the public interest, remain integral to the profession's practice.

C. IMPORTANT PEOPLE IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS FIELD


There have been numerous influential individuals throughout history who have made
significant contributions to the development of the field of journalism. Here are some notable
figures:
 Benjamin Harris (1673-1676): Published "Publick Occurrences Both Forreign and
Domestick," considered the first newspaper published in the American colonies.
 Joseph Pulitzer (1847-1911): A Hungarian-American publisher known for his
investigative journalism and advocacy for press freedom. He established the Pulitzer
Prizes, which recognize excellence in journalism.
 Nellie Bly (1864-1922): A pioneering investigative journalist who famously went
undercover in a mental institution to expose its mistreatment of patients. She also set a
record for circling the world in 72 days.
 Walter Lippmann (1889-1974): An influential political commentator and writer who
emphasized the importance of accurate information and critical analysis in shaping public
opinion.
 Edward R. Murrow (1908-1965): A prominent broadcast journalist and war
correspondent known for his radio reporting during World War II and his television
series "See It Now," which tackled important social and political issues.
 Ida B. Wells (1862-1931): An African-American journalist and civil rights activist who
exposed the horrors of lynching through her investigative reporting. She played a crucial
role in the anti-lynching movement.
 Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein: Investigative journalists known for their reporting
on the Watergate scandal in the 1970s, which led to the resignation of President Richard
Nixon.
 Christiane Amanpour: A renowned television journalist and war correspondent who has
reported from conflict zones around the world. She has been a prominent voice in
international journalism and an advocate for press freedom.
 Seymour Hersh: Investigative journalist known for his groundbreaking reporting on the
My Lai Massacre during the Vietnam War and other significant stories.
 Woodward and Bernstein's example from #7 also leads to mention the role of Deep
Throat - the anonymous source who provided critical information during the Watergate
investigation.

These individuals represent just a fraction of the many journalists and media
professionals who have made lasting contributions to the field of journalism. Their work has
helped shape the principles, ethics, and practices that guide journalism today.
D. MAJOR BRANCHES & THEIR THEMES
Journalism encompasses various branches or specializations, each focusing on specific
aspects of news gathering, reporting, and analysis. Here are some major branches of journalism:
 Investigative Journalism: Investigative journalists delve deep into a particular topic or
issue, often uncovering hidden information, exposing corruption, or revealing
wrongdoing. They use extensive research, interviews, and document analysis to produce
in-depth and impactful reports.
 Broadcast Journalism: This branch involves reporting news and stories through
television or radio broadcasts. Broadcast journalists typically work as news anchors,
reporters, correspondents, or producers, delivering news stories in a visual or auditory
format.
 Print Journalism: Print journalism refers to the traditional form of journalism found in
newspapers, magazines, and other print publications. Print journalists gather, investigate,
and report news stories through written articles, features, columns, and editorials.
 Photojournalism: Photojournalists capture powerful and impactful images that tell news
stories visually. They often work in conjunction with print or digital journalists to provide
visual documentation of events, conflicts, social issues, and human-interest stories.
 Sports Journalism: Sports journalists cover sporting events, athletes, teams, and related
news. They provide analysis, commentary, interviews, and reports on various sports,
from local to international levels.
 Business and Financial Journalism: This branch focuses on reporting news related to
the business world, finance, and the economy. Business journalists cover topics such as
company news, stock markets, economic trends, and financial analysis.
 Political Journalism: Political journalists report on government activities, elections,
policies, and political events. They provide analysis, interviews, and commentary on
political developments, helping the public understand the impact of political decisions.
 Feature Writing: Feature journalists produce in-depth, human-interest stories that go
beyond straight news reporting. They delve into personal narratives, profiles, and longer
articles that provide context, analysis, and storytelling.
 Opinion Journalism: Opinion journalists, also known as columnists or editorial writers,
express their own viewpoints and interpretations on current events, politics, or social
issues. They often provide analysis, commentary, and perspectives based on their
expertise or personal experiences.
 Digital and Online Journalism: With the advent of the internet and digital platforms,
journalism has expanded into the online realm. Digital journalists produce news content
specifically tailored for online platforms, incorporating multimedia elements, interactive
features, and real-time reporting.
It's important to note that these branches of journalism are not mutually exclusive, and
many journalists often work across multiple areas depending on the nature of the story or
medium they are working in.

Certainly! Here are the major branches of journalism along with their themes or areas of
focus:
 Investigative Journalism:
- Exposing corruption, fraud, or wrongdoing
- Uncovering hidden information or secrets
- Holding individuals, organizations, or governments accountable
 Broadcast Journalism:
- News reporting and analysis through television or radio broadcasts
- Breaking news coverage
- Interviews with newsmakers and experts
- Visual storytelling and presenting information in an engaging manner
 Print Journalism:
- News reporting and analysis through newspapers, magazines, and print publications
- Local, national, and international news coverage
- Feature articles, interviews, profiles, and editorials
 Photojournalism:
- Visual storytelling through powerful and impactful images
- Documenting events, conflicts, social issues, and human-interest stories
- Enhancing news reporting with visual elements
 Sports Journalism:
- Coverage of sporting events, athletes, teams, and sports-related news
- Match reports, player profiles, and analysis of sports trends and developments
- Sports features, interviews, and commentary
 Business and Financial Journalism:
- Reporting on business news, corporate activities, and financial markets
- Analysis of economic trends and policies
- Company profiles, industry insights, and stock market updates

 Political Journalism:
- Reporting on political events, government activities, and elections
- Analysis of political policies, legislation, and their impact
- Interviews with politicians, political commentary, and opinion pieces

 Feature Writing:
- In-depth, human-interest stories that go beyond straight news reporting
- Profiles of individuals, communities, or social issues
- Cultural, arts, or lifestyle coverage

 Opinion Journalism:
- Expressing personal viewpoints and perspectives on current events and issues
- Commentary and analysis from a particular perspective or ideological standpoint
- Editorial pieces, op-eds, and commentary on social, political, or cultural matters

 Digital and Online Journalism:


- News reporting and analysis specifically tailored for online platforms
- Real-time reporting and breaking news coverage
- Interactive features, multimedia storytelling, and data visualization
- Online communities and engagement with readers

These themes or areas of focus within each branch of journalism are not exhaustive, and
there can be overlap or specialization within each field. Journalists often adapt to new topics and
emerging trends, ensuring the diverse and comprehensive coverage of news and information.
E. APPLICATION OF THE DISCIPLINE TO THE SECTOR IN THE
COMMUNITY
The discipline of journalism plays a crucial role in various sectors and communities. Here
are some key applications of journalism in different areas:
 Democracy and Civic Engagement: Journalism acts as the "Fourth Estate," providing
citizens with vital information to make informed decisions, participate in democratic
processes, and hold governments and institutions accountable.
 Public Awareness and Education: Journalism helps raise public awareness on important
issues, such as social justice, human rights, climate change, and public health. It educates
communities by providing in-depth analysis, investigative reports, and explanatory
journalism.
 Social Justice and Advocacy: Journalism sheds light on social injustices, inequality, and
marginalized communities. It plays a critical role in advocating for human rights,
equality, and fairness, often giving voice to the voiceless and highlighting societal issues
that need attention.
 Community Building and Local News: Journalism at the community level strengthens
local connections, informs residents about local events, issues, and opportunities, and
fosters a sense of community identity. Local journalism plays a vital role in promoting
civic engagement and encouraging participation.
 Business and Economic Development: Journalism covers business news, market trends,
and economic policies. It informs entrepreneurs, investors, and consumers about
economic developments, fostering transparency and supporting economic growth.
 Environmental Journalism: Journalism dedicated to environmental issues informs the
public about climate change, conservation efforts, sustainable practices, and the impact of
human activities on the environment. It helps raise awareness and promotes responsible
environmental stewardship.
 Health and Science Journalism: Journalism in the field of health and science provides
accurate and accessible information on medical breakthroughs, public health issues, and
scientific research. It educates the public, dispels misinformation, and promotes
evidence-based decision-making.
 Cultural Preservation and Promotion: Journalism contributes to the preservation and
promotion of cultural heritage, traditions, and artistic expressions. It covers cultural
events, profiles artists, and explores cultural practices, fostering cultural understanding
and appreciation.
 International Reporting and Diplomacy: Journalism plays a crucial role in
international relations by providing insights into global events, conflicts, and diplomacy.
It promotes cross-cultural understanding and facilitates dialogue between nations and
communities.
 Technology and Innovation: Journalism covers technological advancements, digital
trends, and their impact on society. It explores ethical considerations, privacy concerns,
and the transformative effects of technology, helping individuals navigate the digital age.

These applications demonstrate how journalism serves as a vital force in society,


informing, empowering, and engaging individuals, communities, and sectors across the globe.

F. CONTEMPORARY ISSUES & PRACTICES


Work Immersion
Contemporary journalism faces numerous challenges and is shaped by evolving practices
in response to changing media landscapes and societal dynamics. Here are some key
contemporary issues and practices in journalism:
 Misinformation and Fake News: The rapid spread of misinformation and fake news
through digital platforms poses a significant challenge to journalism. Journalists are
increasingly tasked with fact-checking, verifying sources, and combating the spread of
false information.
 Trust and Credibility: The erosion of trust in the media has become a pressing issue.
Journalists strive to rebuild trust by adhering to ethical standards, being transparent about
their reporting processes, and engaging with their audience to establish credibility.
 Digital Transformation: The shift to digital platforms has transformed the way news is
produced, consumed, and distributed. Journalists must adapt to digital technologies,
create engaging multimedia content, and navigate social media platforms for audience
engagement.
 Citizen Journalism and User-Generated Content: The rise of citizen journalism and
user-generated content has expanded the sources of news and challenged traditional
gatekeeping roles. Journalists need to navigate and verify user-generated content while
maintaining their professional standards.
 Data Journalism and Visualization: Data journalism involves analyzing and presenting
data in compelling and accessible ways. Journalists now work with data sets, use
visualization tools, and apply data-driven storytelling techniques to uncover insights and
explain complex issues.
 Audience Engagement and Participation: Journalists increasingly seek to engage with
their audience, encourage dialogue, and involve readers in the reporting process.
Practices such as solutions journalism, audience feedback, and collaborative storytelling
help foster a sense of community and participation.
 Diversity and Representation: Newsrooms strive to address diversity and inclusion by
ensuring representation in their coverage and newsroom staff. Journalism practices focus
on amplifying underrepresented voices, promoting diverse perspectives, and avoiding
biases in reporting.
 Ethical Challenges: Journalists face ethical dilemmas in the digital age, including
privacy concerns, conflicts of interest, and the balance between transparency and source
protection. Ethical guidelines and codes of conduct are continuously evolving to address
these challenges.
 Journalistic Independence and Press Freedom: Journalists confront threats to press
freedom, censorship, and attacks on journalists worldwide. Advocacy for press freedom,
protection of whistleblowers, and support for independent journalism are essential
practices to safeguard democratic societies.

 Sustainable Business Models: Traditional media outlets face financial challenges in the
digital era. Journalists explore new revenue models, including subscriptions, donations,
and innovative approaches to ensure the sustainability of quality journalism.

These contemporary issues and practices reflect the evolving nature of journalism as it
adapts to the changing media landscape, engages with audiences, and upholds the core principles
of accuracy, fairness, and public service.

CONCEPT PAPER:
Work immersion in journalism typically involves hands-on experience and practical
training within a professional news organization or media outlet. It provides aspiring journalists
with the opportunity to apply their knowledge, skills, and theoretical understanding of journalism
in a real-world setting. Here's an overview of what work immersion in journalism may entail:
 Newsroom Experience: During work immersion, journalism students or aspiring
journalists are typically placed in a newsroom environment. They observe and participate
in the day-to-day operations of a news organization, gaining exposure to various roles
and responsibilities within the field.
 Reporting and Writing: Work immersion allows individuals to work closely with
reporters and editors, assisting in news gathering, research, conducting interviews, and
writing news articles or features. They learn how to identify newsworthy stories, gather
information, and develop their writing skills in line with journalistic standards.
 Multimedia Journalism: With the rise of digital platforms, work immersion may
involve training in multimedia journalism. Participants may learn how to produce and
edit videos, create podcasts, or develop engaging visual content for online platforms.
 Fact-Checking and Verification: Given the prevalence of misinformation, work
immersion often emphasizes the importance of fact-checking and verifying information.
Participants may learn to assess the credibility of sources, verify facts, and adhere to
ethical standards in reporting.
 Digital Tools and Technologies: Work immersion provides an opportunity to familiarize
oneself with the latest digital tools and technologies used in journalism. This may include
content management systems, data visualization tools, social media platforms, and
analytics tools to monitor audience engagement.
 Editing and Copyediting: Participants may get exposure to the editing process, working
alongside experienced editors to refine and improve news stories. They learn about
headline writing, copyediting, and ensuring accuracy, clarity, and proper journalistic
style.
 Newsroom Ethics and Standards: Work immersion emphasizes the importance of
journalistic ethics and adherence to professional standards. Participants learn about
maintaining objectivity, avoiding conflicts of interest, protecting sources, and handling
sensitive information with integrity.

 Teamwork and Collaboration: Journalism is often a collaborative field, and work


immersion provides an opportunity to work as part of a team. Participants may engage in
editorial meetings, story discussions, and collaborative projects, experiencing the
dynamics of a newsroom environment.
 Deadline Management and Pressure: Work immersion exposes participants to the fast-
paced nature of journalism, where meeting deadlines and handling pressure are essential.
They learn to manage their time efficiently, work under tight deadlines, and deliver
accurate and quality work under pressure.
 Networking and Professional Development: Work immersion allows participants to
network with industry professionals, journalists, and editors. They may attend industry
events, conferences, and workshops, enhancing their professional development and
building relationships within the journalism community.

Overall, work immersion in journalism provides invaluable practical experience, enabling


aspiring journalists to develop their skills, gain industry insights, and refine their understanding
of the profession. It offers a bridge between academic learning and professional practice,
preparing individuals for a career in journalism.

Work Ethics
Work ethics in journalism are a set of principles and standards that guide the professional
conduct of journalists. These ethics serve as a foundation for responsible and ethical journalism.
Here are some key work ethics commonly associated with journalism:
 Accuracy and Verification: Journalists have a duty to report accurate and factual
information. They should verify facts and sources to the best of their ability before
publishing or broadcasting a story. Corrections should be promptly made if errors are
discovered.
 Objectivity and Impartiality: Journalists strive to present information objectively, without
favoritism or bias. They should provide a balanced representation of different
perspectives and avoid personal opinions that could influence the fairness of their
reporting.
 Independence and Autonomy: Journalists maintain their independence and exercise
professional autonomy, free from undue influence, pressures, or conflicts of interest.
They should avoid financial or personal relationships that could compromise their
integrity or objectivity.
 Fairness and Respect: Journalists aim to treat all individuals and communities fairly and
respectfully. They should avoid stereotypes, discrimination, and sensationalism. They
should seek diverse perspectives and provide individuals with the opportunity to respond
to allegations or criticisms.
 Privacy and Sensitivity: Journalists should respect individuals' privacy rights and exercise
sensitivity when reporting on personal matters, especially in cases involving victims,
minors, or vulnerable individuals. They should consider the potential harm caused by
intrusive or invasive reporting.
 Transparency and Accountability: Journalists should be transparent about their sources,
methodologies, and potential conflicts of interest. They should be accountable for the
accuracy and quality of their work and be open to feedback and criticism from the public.
 Public Interest and Service: Journalists have a responsibility to serve the public interest
by providing information that is relevant, important, and of value to the community. They
should prioritize public service over personal or commercial interests.
 Respect for the Law and Ethics: Journalists should adhere to legal and ethical standards
in their work. They should respect copyright laws, avoid plagiarism, and follow ethical
guidelines established by professional journalism organizations.
 Protection of Sources: Journalists should protect the confidentiality of their sources when
necessary to ensure the free flow of information. They should maintain the trust and
anonymity of sources, particularly in cases where disclosure could harm the source or
impede important investigations.
 Continuous Learning and Professional Development: Journalists should strive for
excellence in their work by continuously improving their skills, knowledge, and
understanding of journalistic practices. They should stay updated on industry trends,
technological advancements, and evolving ethical considerations.

Adhering to these work ethics helps journalists maintain credibility, trust, and integrity in
their profession. It ensures that journalism serves its crucial role in providing accurate, balanced,
and responsible information to the public.

Confidentiality in the workplace


Confidentiality is a fundamental aspect of ethical journalism and plays a critical role in
building trust with sources and protecting sensitive information. Here are key considerations
regarding confidentiality in the workplace of journalism:
 Protecting Sources: Journalists often rely on confidential sources who provide valuable
information on sensitive or important matters. Respecting the confidentiality of these
sources is crucial for maintaining their trust and encouraging them to come forward with
information in the future. Journalists should protect the identity of their sources unless
there is a compelling reason to disclose it.
 Off-the-Record and Background Information: Journalists may engage in off-the-
record or background conversations with sources. Off-the-record information is strictly
confidential and cannot be used for publication, while background information helps
inform the journalist's understanding but is not attributable to the source. Journalists
should clearly establish and respect the agreed-upon terms of confidentiality in these
conversations.
 Legal Protections: In many jurisdictions, laws and legal precedents exist to protect
journalists and their sources. Journalists should familiarize themselves with the relevant
laws and regulations regarding source confidentiality in their respective regions and
operate within those boundaries.

 Ethical Guidelines: Professional journalism organizations often have ethical guidelines


that emphasize the importance of protecting the confidentiality of sources. Journalists
should adhere to these guidelines and uphold the highest ethical standards in maintaining
source confidentiality.
 Balancing Public Interest: While journalists should generally strive to protect source
confidentiality, there may be situations where the public interest outweighs the need for
confidentiality. Journalists should carefully consider the potential harm or benefit to
society when deciding whether to reveal a source's identity.
 Secure Communication: Journalists should take appropriate measures to secure their
communications with sources, especially when discussing sensitive or confidential
matters. This may include using encrypted messaging services, secure file sharing
platforms, or meeting in person in secure environments.
 Professional Judgment: Journalists must exercise professional judgment when
determining whether to promise confidentiality to a source. They should evaluate the
credibility and motives of the source, assess the potential impact of the information, and
consider the overall journalistic and ethical implications before making commitments.
 Limitations to Confidentiality: There are instances where the obligation to protect
confidentiality may be overridden by legal or ethical considerations. For example, if the
information received involves imminent harm to someone's safety or if there is a legal
requirement to disclose information, journalists may need to carefully weigh their
obligations.
It is essential for journalists to balance the commitment to source confidentiality with
other ethical principles, legal requirements, and considerations of public interest. By doing so,
journalists can navigate the complexities of confidential information while upholding the core
principles of responsible journalism.
PHOTO DOCUMENTATION
JOURNALISM

Submitted by: Desceriel Pactolerin


Submitted to: Mr. Dale Jason Gamorot

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