AndrewFinlayson's Blog

Every day, a new social media platform is coming full circle as part-time, volunteer and citizen journalists emerge. They’re gaining momentum in the media community and changing the way news is reported and delivered, as well as how community members view the world around them. People are practicing journalism through blogs, Web site production and interaction with sites maintained by mainstream news organizations. They are contributing to the world’s 24/7 news cycle, making it easy and accessible for more of us to be in the know. The Society of Professional Journalists believes the world benefits from more news coverage, not less.

Through its Citizen Journalism Academy, which takes place May 17 in Chicago at DePaul University's Lincoln Park campus, SPJ seeks to help everyone wanting to practice journalism to do so accurately, ethically and fairly. The Society aims to help participants understand how responsible practices could increase their reach and help them have strong journalistic reputations within their communities and around the world. Among the topics this daylong workshop will explore: — Journalism ethics. The new-media landscape is rife with dilemmas for anyone wanting to report accurately, fairly and outside the bounds of special interests. — The basics of media law. The same longstanding laws concerning libel, slander and access to people and information apply to 21st-century news-gatherers. — Access to pubic records and meetings. Public information can add substance and value to every news story. But knowing where to look for it can be tough. — Standard and responsible reporting practices. With media ethics and law in mind, how else should news-gatherers approach sources. — Tips on smart writing. SPJ instructors want to help ensure your voice is clearly understood. — The use of technology. We'll show you an array of tools you could start using — or continue using even more effectively.

The cost to attend the Citizen Journalism Academy is $25, which includes lunch and course materials. For more information about this program or to register, visit SPJ's Citizen Journalism Academy page. Please note, the registration deadline is May 3 and seating is limited. Funding for this program is provided by the Sigma Delta Chi Foundation, a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) public foundation organized for the purpose of supporting the educational programs of the Society of Professional Journalists and to serve the professional needs of journalists and students pursuing careers in journalism.