What is Journalism?

Journalism means writing for newspapers or magazines. It is the communication of information through writing in periodicals and newspapers. The people have an inborn desire to know what’s novel or new. This curiosity is satisfied by the journalists through their writings in the newspapers and journals regarding the current events and news.

According to Webster’s Third International Dictionary Journalism means “the collection and editing if material of current interest for presentation, publication or broadcast”. According to Chamber’s Twentieth Century Dictionary, journalism means “the profession of conducting or writing for public journals”. The word ‘journalism’ is derived from journal which means a daily register or a diary – a book containing each day’s business or transactions. The word ‘journal’ also connoted a newspaper published every day or even less often a magazine. Thus journalism means the communication of information regarding the events of a day through written words, sounds or pictures. And a journalist is a person who writes for or conducts a newspaper or a magazine.

Journalism is basically the communication of news but it may also contain certain features for the entertainment of readers. A journal may consist of a single news sheet meant for a factory or a small village, or it may be an international magazine or newspaper for the whole world. Journalism is a report of things as they appear at the moment of writing. It is not a definitive study of a situation. In journalism, there is an element of timeliness which is not present in the more leisurely types of writing, say, for example writing a book.

A journalist mainly performs two functions, firstly, reporting the news and secondly, offering interpretation and opinion based on the news. A journalist may also write an account that is both entertaining as well as newsworthy. But a person, who writes for simply entertainment only, such as a TV script writer, is not a journalist. The oldest journalism is connected with the periodical journalism. A periodical is printed at a regular and fixed interval. A periodical can be called a newspaper if it appears at least weekly in a recognised newspaper format and it has a general public interest.

The term ‘journalist’ includes the reporters, writers, and columnists who work for newspapers, news agencies, news magazines and other magazines devoted largely to public affairs. The print media which these journalists serve is known collectively as ‘the Press’; although many newspaper men would like to reserve this term only for their medium. The news reporting and commentaries delivered by television and radio are equally a form of journalism. Similarly, public affairs documentaries, direct broadcast of news events and film documentaries also come under journalism. The reporters, writers, editors and photographers working in the television-radio-film areas claim that the general descriptive term ‘the Press’ also applies to them as well as the print media men when they are dealing with news and opinions. Of course, they tend more often to identify themselves with the name of their medium than with the collective word ‘journalist’. So do others in the list of communicators given above like photographers, book editors, advertising men, industrial editors and so on.  

Introduction to Communication

Communication' (together with its twin information) is perhaps one of the most hyped words in contemporary culture. It encompasses a multitude of experiences, actions and events, as well as a whole variety of happenings and meanings, and technologies. For example, a conference or a meeting or even a mela or procession is a 'communication event', newspapers, radio, video and television are communication media', phones, pagers, and email are Communication technologies', and journalists, advertisers, public relations personnel, and even camera crew and news-readers are communication professionals'. Further, the contemporary period has come to be labelled variously the Information Age', the Communication Age', and most recently, the Cyber or Networking Age. The uses and understanding of Communication have come a long way from its original association first with 'means of transport' and later with transmission'. The English word 'communication' is derived from the Latin noun 'communis' and the Latin verb 'communicare' which It means 'to make common'. Terms closely related to communication and with similar etymological origins include community, communion, commonality, communalism and communism. The closest Indian language equivalent to the original concept of communication is 'sadharanikaran'. Communication, in its simplest sense, is a human relationship, involving two or more persons who come together to share, to dialogue and to commune, or just to be together say at a festival or a time of mourning. Communication is thus not so much an act or even a process but rather social and cultural 'togetherness. 

What subjects shall I have in class 12 to choose Mass Communication and Journalism in college?

You do not need a special combination of subjects to study Journalism and Mass Communication in college as a Bachelors Degree. You can be from Science Stream, Commerce Stream or Arts Stream. There is no separate combination of subjects that you will need to study Journalism and Mass Communication in college. The CBSE Board offers Media Studies as a vocational course at plus 2 levels, but it is available in few select schools. One can take up that course as a precursor to a college degree in Journalism and Mass Communication but it is not necessary. You can have any subject combination to study Journalism and Mass Communication at college level.

Draft Rules to make Social Media ready

Amidst the series of tasks that we do through the day, browsing on social media sites occupy the lion’s share. In fact, resorting to digital arena is the chosen method because it’s hassle-free and catching up one very thing happens while being on the go! While that’ll not really be disturbed; what’s concerning is that internet content will now be regulated, at least a significant portion of it to be precise.

The new content guidelines specified for print and broadcast media includes draft rules for social media sites too. In other words, social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and even OTT platforms like Amazon, Netflix, Hotstar and digital news organizations fall under the purview of regulation of content.

How did this come about?

To be specific, Twitter, the microblogging site has been the source in this case! There was a huge row as regards refusal of blocking of several accounts was concerned. This included famous personalities and also organizations that backed the farm protests. The Centre hence came up with these draft rules to make social media ready (inclusive of OTT platforms and news-related websites).

What to expect as a result?

Going by reports, the series of guidelines that the government has suggested consist of a ‘self-regulatory framework’ with its compliance reports and of course, the code of ethics. Having a chief compliance officer will fit the bill here, who will be given the onus of performing on a 24x7 basis, in respect to complaints from law enforcement agencies. The new draft rules marks the establishment of what is called a ‘soft touch progressive institutional mechanism with level-playing field’. This features a three-tier grievance redressal framework and the prime Code of Ethics that bans content affecting ‘sovereignty and integrity of India’, in addition to threatening the national security.

What is the 10-Point Guide?

For the first time, The Information Technology (Guidelines for Intermediaries and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 prescribes the very way how social media sites, OTT streaming services and digital news organizations will be strictly regulated by the government. Here’s a list of what lies in store:

• Social media giants must appoint India-based compliance officers. 
•   To become social media ready, sites need to disclose the ‘first originator’ of any suspicious message. 
• The ‘Authorized Officer’ or Joint Secretary designated by the government will directly block content. 
• Oversight mechanism is about the committee having representatives from Ministries of Home, Law, I&B, Women and Child Development- who will have ‘suo moto powers’. 
• Self classification will be meant for streaming services, like for 13 plus, 16 plus or adults- depending on the type of violence and nudity portrayed. Digital news media will adhere to PCI, while news websites will be registered with Information & Broadcasting Ministry site. 
• Companies must have a grievance officer to receive and resolve complaints within a month’s time. 
• An intermediary must remove or disable access to any content considered offensive or illegal within 24 hours. 
• Social media ready means content that’s obscene, libellous, racist or defamatory must be taken off. 
• Three-tier mechanism should enforce a stringent Code of Ethics.

Draft rules that will actually make one social media ready imply that social media users will be empowered manifold. How far the objective is reached is best left to time.

 

Transformation in BA in Mass Communication Syllabus: What to look for now?

The advent of technology has naturally pushed forward the prospects of the discipline called mass communication. Compared to even a couple of decades back, the percentage of students opting for media studies has witnessed an overwhelming rise. As a result of such popularity, the present and updated BA in mass communication syllabus incorporates essential changes. Alongside theoretical concepts, practical applications of the respective subject/s, via internships, seminars (and now webinars), study tours and more determine exactly how much a student needs to work to make a place in this increasingly competitive world.

Course Curriculum Structure

Ideally, BA in Mass Communication syllabus takes into account a student’s overall understanding of journalism and mass communication while pursuing the three-year undergraduate course. In several colleges and universities, the chosen path is division of three years into six semesters, which has made the study hassle-free.

In the first and second semesters, the topics mostly include:

• Mass Communication Theories & Models
• Print Journalism: Reporting & Editing 
• Broadcast Journalism: Radio Production 
• Broadcast Journalism: TV & Anchoring 
• Media Laws & Ethics 
• Folk Media/ Traditional Media 
• Photography

The next year, which marks the third and fourth semesters include:

• Understanding global media perspectives 
• Film Studies- Camera, Lights & Sound 
• Advertising & Marketing
• PR & Corporate Communication 
• New Media Technology 
• Media and Human Rights

Lastly, fifth and sixth semesters have a blend of industry skills’ acquisition, in addition to increased focus on research.

• Mass Media Management 
• Research and statistical applications in mass media 
• National and International Affairs 
• Contemporary Issues in Mass Media 
• Internships/Study Tours/ Seminars

While the course curriculum of BA in mass communication syllabus and the distribution of subjects might not be the same across all institutes dispensing the three year undergraduate course in mass communication, the syllabus is more or less similar.

 Mass Media studies at the Plus 2 level

Thankfully, many schools at the 10+2 standard have now brought to the fore media studies, even before UG students embark on the BA in mass communication syllabus in colleges. By mastering essential skill sets like creative thinking, communication, observation, problem-solving, good interviewing, networking and most importantly, the ability to work under strict deadlines- students display an added interest in choosing mass communication at their undergraduate level.

Eligibility Criteria

Ideally, a student who fulfils or displays the above-mentioned skill sets in addition to few specialized traits would be the best fit for mass communication and journalism. At the same time, opting for this much-in-demand subject as a result of peer pressure or keeping up to the trends make no sense! Eventually, the skills will be necessary in grasping the titbits of the broad discipline, especially with the current BA in mass communication syllabus.

For a better idea though, candidates who have passed Class 12 (regardless of any stream) from a recognized board with the bare minimum percentage (55-60%), as fixed by the college or university should make it through. Not to forget, during the time of admission, students should pass an entrance test too!

Important Mass Media Inventions Chronologically

 Mass Media has come a long way since paper was invented way back in China. Today, starting from newspapers, radio, television, cinema and internet, we have a plethora of mass mediums which we use and consume on a daily basis. These have practically become a part of our lives. Today, our lives seem to be impossible without these mass mediums. We are living in a information age - which is fueled by these mass mediums. Thus, in this blog I list the important mass media inventions that made today's mediascape possible. 

Tsai Lun invents Paper in China in 105BC

 

First wooden printing press invented in China in 305 AD

 

Quill pens first appear in Seville, Spain in 600 AD

 

1454: Johannes Gutenberg invents a printing press in 1454 in Germany. The printing press had metal movable types.

 

1793: Clause Chappe invents the first long-distance semaphore (visual or optical) telegraph line.

 

1814: Joseph Nicephore Niepce achieves the first photographic image.

 

1821: Charles Wheatstone reproduces sound in a primitive sound box, the first microphone in England.

 

1831: Joseph Henry invents first electric telegraph in America

 

1847: Richard March Hoe designs rotary press

 

1875: J.G.A Eickhoff builds a four-cylinder perfecting press, capable of printing two sides of paper simultaneously.

 

1876: Thomas Edison patents the mimeograph, an office copying machine in America.

 

1876: Alexander Graham Bell invents and demonstrates telephone.

 

1877: Thomas Edison and others develop carbon telephone transmitter

 

1877: Emile Berliner invents the microphone

 

1877: Eadweard Muybridge invents high-speed photography that captures motion

 

1894: Guglielmo Marconi improves wireless telegraphy.

 

1895: Lumiere Brothers of Paris develop film projector

 

1899: Valdemar Poulsen invents the first magnetic recordings, the foundation for both mass data storage on disk and tape and the music recording industry.

 

1899: Loudspeakers invented

 

1906: Lee De Frost invents the electronic amplifying tube; this allowed all electronic signals to be amplified improving all electronic communications i.e. telephone and radio in America

 

1914: Oskar Barnack exhibits small hand-held camera

 

1921: Wirephoto, the first electronically – transmitted photograph dispatched

 

1923: Vladimir Kosma Zworykin invents television transmitting and receiving system employing cathode ray tubes

 

1925: John Logie Baird transmits the first experimental television signal

 

1926: Warner Brothers studios invent a process to record sound separately from the film on large disks and synchronized the sound and motion picture tracks upon playback – an improvement on Thomas Edison’s work

 

1933: FM Radio patented by inventor Edwin H. Armstrong

 

1934: Joseph Begun invents first tape recorder for broadcasting

 

1938: Television broadcasts able to be taped and edited, rather than only live

 

1949: First commercial electronic computer produced

 

1966: Xerox invents Telecopier, the first successful fax machine

 

1969: ARPANET – the first internet started

 

1979: First cellular phone communication network starts in Japan

Characteristics of Scientific Method in Communication Research

There are six basic characteristics, or tenets, that distinguish the scientific method from other methods of knowing. A research approach that does not follow each of these tenets is not a scientific approach.

1.      Scientific research is public: Advances in science require freely available information. Researchers, especially in the academic sector cannot plead private knowledge, methods, or data in arguing for the accuracy of their findings; scientific research information must be freely communicated from one researcher to another.

2.     Science is objective: Science tries to rule out eccentricities of judgment by researchers. When a study is conducted, explicit rules and procedures are developed and the researcher is bound to follow them.

3.     Science is empirical: Researchers are concerned with a word that is knowable and potentially measureable. Empiricism comes from the Greek work for ‘experience’. Researchers must be able to perceive and classify what they study and reject metaphysical and nonsensical explanations of events. To do this, they must define problem they are researching.

There are two basic types of definitions – Constitutive definitions and Operational definition.

Constitutive Definition – It defines a word by substituting other words or concepts for it. For example, the definition for a Mobile may be a technological device which can receive signals from far regions through towers and let people communicate with each other.

Operational Definition – In contrast to constitutive definition, operational definition specifies procedures that allow one to experience or measure a concept. For example, Go to the shopping mall and find a mobile phone shop. Look for the sign ‘mobile phone’; what’s underneath the sign is a mobile phone. Although the operational definition assures precision, it does not guarantee validly. This is because it is possible that the shopkeeper kept a pen drive beneath the sign instead of a mobile phone. This possibility of error underscores the importance of considering both the constitutive definition and the operational definition of a concept to evaluate the trustworthiness of any measurement.

Any question can be answered as long as there as operational definitions for the independent or dependent variables.

4.     Science is systematic and cumulative: No single research study stands alone, nor does it rise or fall by itself. Researchers always use previous studies as building blocks for their own work. One of the first steps in conducting research is to review the available scientific literature on the topic so that the current study will draw on the heritage of past research. This review is valuable for identifying problems areas and important factors that might be relevant to the current study.

In addition, scientists attempt to search for order and consistency among their findings. In its deal form, scientific research begins with a single carefully observed event and progresses ultimately to the formulation of theories and laws.

A Theory is a set of related propositions that presents a systematic view of phenomena by specifying relationships among concepts. Researchers develop theories by searching for patterns of uniformity to explain their data. When relationships among variables are invariant under given conditions, researchers may formulate a law.

A Law is a statement of fact meant to explain, in concise terms, an action or set of actions that is generally accepted to be true and universal.

Both theories and laws help researchers for and explain consistency in behavior, situations, and phenomena.

5.     Science is predictive: Science is concerned with relating the present to the future. In fact, scientists strive to develop theories because, among other reasons, they are useful in predicting behavior. A theory’s adequacy lies in its ability to predict a phenomenon or event successfully. A theory that offers predictions that are not borne out by data analysis must be carefully reexamined and perhaps discarded. Conversely, a theory that generates predictions that are supported by the data can be used to make predictions in other situations.

6.     Science is self-correcting: The scientific method approaches learning in a series of small steps. That is, one study or one source provides only an indication of what may or may not be true; the ‘truth’ is found only through a series of objective analyses. This means that the scientific method is self-correcting in that changes in thoughts, theories, or laws are appropriate when errors in previous research are uncovered.

YouTube video on communication research: 

You can buy Mass Media Research: An Introduction by Wimmer and Dominick here: https://amzn.to/31lEPOv