Western Kentucky University
Citizen Journalism: Historical Roots and Contemporary Challenges
Institution
Western Kentucky University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Mac Mckerral
Abstract
I am working on this project for my Honor's senior thesis at WKU. I recently presented my research at the Kentucky Honors Roundtable, an event in which WKU collaborated with other honors programs from around the state. My research focuses on the impact citizen journalism is having on ethics in journalism. In order to provide background on the topic, the research starts with the historical roots of citizen journalism, explaining how it is not a new concept. It then shifts to today's society, examining the concerns that arise from citizen journalism such as objectivity, fairness and accuracy, and how these are affecting the journalism field as a whole. One particular aspect of my research that especially relates to legislation is the part about shield laws, and the controversy over who should be considered a journalist. I think it is an intriguing topic because it deals with current events.
Citizen Journalism: Historical Roots and Contemporary Challenges
I am working on this project for my Honor's senior thesis at WKU. I recently presented my research at the Kentucky Honors Roundtable, an event in which WKU collaborated with other honors programs from around the state. My research focuses on the impact citizen journalism is having on ethics in journalism. In order to provide background on the topic, the research starts with the historical roots of citizen journalism, explaining how it is not a new concept. It then shifts to today's society, examining the concerns that arise from citizen journalism such as objectivity, fairness and accuracy, and how these are affecting the journalism field as a whole. One particular aspect of my research that especially relates to legislation is the part about shield laws, and the controversy over who should be considered a journalist. I think it is an intriguing topic because it deals with current events.