Crowdsourcing

Definition

Crowdsourcing is a method of obtaining information, services, or ideas by soliciting contributions from a large group of people, often through online platforms. It harnesses the collective intelligence and resources of the public, allowing journalists to gather diverse perspectives and data that can enhance storytelling and reporting.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Crowdsourcing allows journalists to access real-time information from the public during breaking news events, enhancing the immediacy and relevance of their reporting.
2. It can help identify trends and issues that may not be on the radar of traditional media outlets, leading to more comprehensive coverage.
3. Ethical considerations are crucial in crowdsourcing, as journalists must verify the credibility and reliability of the contributions received from the public.
4. Social media platforms play a significant role in facilitating crowdsourcing, providing an efficient way for journalists to reach a wide audience quickly.
5. Successful crowdsourcing projects often engage audiences through incentives, such as recognition or opportunities to participate in further discussions.

Review Questions

• How does crowdsourcing enhance the storytelling process in journalism?
  • Crowdsourcing enhances storytelling by allowing journalists to gather diverse perspectives and firsthand accounts from the public. This approach not only enriches the narrative with varied viewpoints but also provides real-time information that can make a story more relevant and compelling. Additionally, incorporating crowdsourced content helps create a sense of community involvement, making readers feel more connected to the story.
• What ethical considerations must journalists keep in mind when utilizing crowdsourced information?
  • Journalists must ensure the credibility and reliability of crowdsourced information by verifying sources and fact-checking contributions before publication. They should also be transparent about how they gather and use this information, giving proper credit to contributors when appropriate. Furthermore, ethical implications arise when handling sensitive information or personal stories shared by individuals; thus, respecting privacy and obtaining consent is essential.
• Evaluate how social media has transformed the way journalists approach crowdsourcing in their reporting practices.
  • Social media has dramatically transformed crowdsourcing by providing journalists with immediate access to vast audiences who can contribute information quickly. This shift has enabled reporters to engage with communities in real-time during breaking news situations, leading to richer coverage. Moreover, social media's interactive nature fosters greater collaboration between journalists and the public, allowing for a more inclusive approach to news gathering that reflects diverse voices and experiences in reporting.

Related terms

User-generated content:

Content created by users or consumers, rather than professional producers, which can include articles, videos, and social media posts.

Collaborative journalism: A form of journalism where multiple organizations or individuals work together to produce stories, often leveraging crowdsourced information.

Participatory media: Media that encourages active participation from its audience in the creation and dissemination of content.