Explain the role of watchdogs in journalism. Where do their story ideas come from, what methods do they use to report on an issue and how do their stories affect society?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The role of a watchdog is to protect the public’s best interest by holding people and publications in power to account. Story ideas for watchdog journalists can come from a variety of sources, including investigative reporting, data analysis, open records requests or even trusted sources that the reporter encounters regularly on his or her beat. Journalists serving a watchdog role will often try to get answers as to why something works or doesn’t work, using public information or information made available through Freedom of Information Act or Sunshine Law requests. Since these answers are often coming from individuals or groups who would otherwise be less than forthcoming about their activities, watchdog journalism often results in major stories, such as the exposure of the Watergate scandal. This kind of information not only keeps readers informed about what is happening in the world but holds people in power to account by exposing abuses, mismanagement of public goods and other forms of corruption that would otherwise remain hidden from public view.