A group of young female journalist had a discussion about the challenges they encounter when using Digital space and how to address those challenges, but also had the chance to discuss about why it’s important to female journalist to embrace Digital Media. Agnes, Suzanna, Josephine, Newstar and Faudhia are the participants in the discussion.
Challenges in the Digital Space
In addressing the challenges, they encounter as journalists when it comes to digital media, they shared that, social media users face mis- and disinformation where some other information can be similar or typically look exactly the same as the real news in one’s feed, as a result, at first glance it can be very hard for journalists and non-journalists to discern fact from fiction.
Weaponization of social media; the spread of mis- and disinformation can occur accidentally, for example when people share stories from satirical websites like the Onion, but assume they’re true.
Privacy concerns; Journalists and other social networks user needs to be cognizant about the potential repercussions of what they say online. These spaces aren’t safe from onlookers, and actions taken in these spaces are not without consequence.
Approaches to overcome Digital challenges
There are ways when are proper put into consideration it will help to overcome those challenges;
Seek support but also give it, there are several organizations designed/initiated to support women in the journalism industry. Supporting these organizations can be great for collaboration, building professional networks and learning from each other. Having supportive female mentors and working towards common goals can help provide a safe space for women journalists to grow.
Don’t be afraid to push back, women that have a platform have a responsibility to stand up for their colleagues, especially fellow women, while ensuring and advocating to other people around them to treat women better. If a male colleague or mentor says something that is objectionable or judgmental about another woman based on her gender, speak up. Just because you’re in the crowd of people doesn’t mean that you can’t push back no you should.
We all need to “think before we tweet”, check the provenance of material we are sharing or using in our work, and be aware of the latest techniques being used to spread misinformation, conspiracy theories and partisan agendas.
Importance of embrace Digital Media
It allows Online discussions; Digital journalism allows women and readers in accessing the opportunity to join in on threaded discussions relating to the news article that has been read by the public. This offers an excellent source for writers and reporters to decide what is important and what should be omitted in the future.
It promotes better understanding of contents; the Digital space allows information sharing with attached images related to the story, this paves the room for digital citizens when reading to have a clear understanding of the information shared. Researchers also say that size of a picture matters, the bigger it is, the more a reader will read the cutline. Like all things in journalism, credibility is key.
Journalist need to have different skills that while help them in the use of Digital medias and those are; excellent written communication skills. excellent verbal communication skills. knowledge of the six official languages as well as the knowledge in media production.