Mass media refers to a diverse array of media technologies that reach a large audience via mass communication. Print media transmit information via physical objects, such as books, comics, magazines, newspapers, or pamphlets. Event organizing and public speaking can also be considered forms of mass media.

An individual or group that monitors the activities of another entity (such as an individual, corporation, non-profit group, or governmental organization) on behalf of the public to ensure that entity does not behave illegally or unethically: Consumer watchdog, consumer protection organizations or campaigners.

Media has given political parties the tools to reach large numbers of people and can inform them on key issues ranging from policies to elections. In theory, media should be seen as an enabler for democracy, having better-educated voters would lead to a more legitimate government.

History

• Alter the meaning of geographic distance.
• Allow for a huge increase in the volume of communication.
• Provide the possibility of increasing the speed of communication.
• Provide opportunities for interactive communication.
• Allow forms of communication that were previously separate to overlap and interconnect.

4 Major Functions of the Press-Discussed!

• Information: This function includes all reports, news and happenings concerning the daily life.
• Influence: It means influencing the opinion of the readers through editorials, articles, or certain special features.
• 3. Entertainment: The other important function of the press is entertainment of the readers.
• Advertising:

The backbone of any democracy is an independent, professional and responsible media. Their role is to inform, criticise and stimulate debate. For the media to be credible it has to take responsibility for getting its facts right. …

The press (radio, television, newspapers, magazine, and all other news agencies) is the watchdog of government. The guarantee of free press carries the obligation of providing the audience information to base its political decisions. The public needs information about products, goods and services- not just events.

A free press plays a vital role in democratic societies, enabling the open exchange of information and opinions among ordinary citizens, businesses, citizen associations, political parties, and governments.

Headlines are the single most important factor when creating great content. Why? Because headlines determine whether or not your target audience is going to read your article. A headline is the only impression you can make on an Internet surfer that can turn them into a potential reader.

Freedom of the press is an essential right in the United States and a core principle of democracy. Protected by the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, a free press helps maintain the balance of power in government.

PRINCIPLES OF REPORTING Every news story should contain four essential elements— accuracy, attribution of source, fairness and objectivity.

In relation to news coverage it includes issues such as impartiality, objectivity, balance, bias, privacy, and the public interest. More generally, it also includes stereotyping, taste and decency, obscenity, freedom of speech, advertising practices such as product placement, and legal issues such as defamation.

The foremost important role of communicators and journalists is to make available information and evidence to inform the public about issues that matter to them in the most neutral way possible. They provide facts for the public to form judgment and decisions.

Essential Qualities of a Good Journalist

• A Way with Words. How do you distinguish between an average news story and an enthralling news piece?
• Thorough Knowledge.
• Investigative Skills.
• Effective Communication Skills.
• Professionalism and Confidence.
• Persistence and Discipline.
• Ethics are Important Too.

Newspaper journalists research and write stories for national, regional and local press. They report on news and politics, as well as on sports, arts and culture, science and business. On smaller newspapers journalists have to multitask. They may work on layout, photography and sub-editing, as well as write stories.

Skills and knowledge

• knowledge of English language.
• knowledge of media production and communication.
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail.
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure.
• excellent written communication skills.
• excellent verbal communication skills.
• ambition and a desire to succeed.

The difference between Journalist and a Reporter is reporter’s job is to relay the story to the public but the Journalist’s job is to research new stories. Journalists work for newspapers, magazines, and many more written editorials. Reporters report the news on television, radio, or any other mass media.

Understanding 5 Types of Reporters (and How to Work with Them)

a person who writes news stories or articles for a newspaper or magazine or broadcasts them on radio or television: a freelance political journalist. More examples. The journalist asked the minister how he viewed recent events.

A journalist is an individual trained to collect/gather information in form of text, audio or pictures, processes them to a news-worth form and disseminates it to the public. The act or process mainly done by the journalist is called journalism.