Page 27 - Convergent Journalism an Introduction Writing and Producing Across Media

Why Is This Book Needed?

The contributors are all Ball State teachers who are well versed in the
theory of convergence. Many also practice their craft with media orga-
nizations, so you will also read their thoughts and their synthesis of
how the industry perceives convergence. The opinions of contributors
are their own and those opinions are based on their knowledge of the
working media. If at times you note variations in tone and opinion,
then accept that as part of what it is like to work in the media.
The next chapter discusses the vital role of the multimedia assign-
ment editor. These people need to appreciate the strengths of each
medium so they know what reporting resources to allocate to stories.
Chapter 3 focuses on what is still the most important skill for a jour-
nalist regardless of medium: the ability to write clearly. It also teaches
students how to edit their own work. Chapter 4 discusses writing
for broadcast and how to present one’s words in an appropriate style
and tone. Chapter 5 continues on the writing theme, and demon-
strates how to write for the Web. It also discusses the attraction
of interactivity on the Web. Chapter 6 shows the power of report-
ing with information graphics. This chapter discusses a storytelling
approach using graphics that are appropriate for all forms of media. 17
Chapters 7 and 8 teach students how to take digital still photographs
and digital video, respectively, focusing on the storytelling functions of
still and moving images. Chapter 9 shows how to edit video footage,
and encourages photojournalists to shoot with the editor in mind.
Chapter 10 is based on the notion that, with time, more and more
“platypi” or multimedia reporters may emerge from their burrows.
The most likely scenarios involve wars (embedded reporters in Iraq,
for example) or isolated locations where it is not possible to send a
team of reporters.
The financial aspects of convergence are not ignored. Chapter 11
considers the development of multimedia advertising, while Chapter 12
assesses the role of convergent public relations. In some ways, these
aspects of communication are well ahead of journalism in their adop-
tion of convergent methods. It also bears noting that both advertising
and public relations are intertwined with journalism in the United
States. Chapters that examine convergence from the perspectives of
PR and advertising experts can provide a unique and important look at
this process. The final chapter asks where we go from here, and offers
a look into an admittedly cloudy crystal ball. Each chapter contains
current examples along with exercises that students can do to practice
the skills that are discussed.