No Fibs welcomes anyone who would like to try their hand at citizen journalism.
We ask two things:
1. that our citizen journalists (CJs) agree to abide by the MEAA code of ethics, explained in Mindful ethics for election bloggers and citizen journalists and
2. that our CJs are genuinely interested in applying themselves to the craft of journalism, which in the 21st century means a level of self-sufficiency, some basic skills in the use of social media and WordPress, and an eye for detail.
This means understanding, respecting and recognising the importance of the following basic principles:
* there is a difference between fact and opinion
* everyone has an agenda (This is neither a positive or negative statement. It’s vital you are aware of the subtle – or not so subtle – influences on your work)
* accuracy is fundamental to your credibility and your reputation
* assumptions are the greatest danger to your reporting
* No Fibs has a presentation ‘style’ – all stories must be written in this style – we have a guide to help you, right through to sub-editing and publishing your own work
For basic training on each of the above, click on the live links.
As well, it is essential our citizen journalists learn how to structure a news story and learn to be discerning when broadcasting on Twitter.
Citizen journalism training courtesy Stephanie Dale.
