Explain methods journalists can use to ensure accuracy and create diversity in their reporting, and give a specific example of each.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Varies. A sample answer follows. Journalists must strive for accuracy above all else. They can deliver accuracy by carefully scrutinizing every detail of a story and verifying it. They can make sure to use only known reliable sources. They can also read through their information and make sure that they are accurately capturing the tone and meaning of their sources. If they are unsure of the meaning of a quote, they can use another one that is clearer. They should avoid using generalized information and suggestive wording and replace it with more specific, concrete wording. A specific example would be that a reporter can wait until the facts have been verified before publishing a story, even if he or she is pretty sure it is accurate, and even if that means someone else beats him or her to the story. An example would be when reporting the results of an election.
Journalists should try to include views from outside the region or population they are serving in order to create diversity and increase appreciation for other ways of thinking about and doing things. They can do this by rejecting stereotypes and giving a voice to everyone. A specific example would be a reporter doing a story in a neighborhood filled with gangs and crime but interviewing someone in that neighborhood who is very successful and has never been affiliated with gangs and crime.