An evaluation of Sahara Reporters as a platform of participatory journalism
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Date
2016
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
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Published by Department of Mass Communication, Novena University, Ogume, Delta State, Nigeria
Abstract
This study examined the role of Sahara Reporters as online media. The aim was to make sense of the phenomenon of participatory journalism considered in the context of the historical evolution of public communication. The study, which was anchored on libertarian theory of mass communication, adopted qualitative content analysis. It purposively selected some publications of Sahara Reporters between January and June, 2014. The news stories purposively selected cut across social, economic and political themes. Results showed a robust coverage of issues and active participation of audience with a bias in certain issues particularly insecurity which is the dominant theme. Also, audiences have diverse impression on the type and quality of issues Sahara Reporters cover. Therefore, it recommended among other things, self-censorship by reporters including the active audience that participate on the online platform.
Description
Keywords
Sahara Reporters, participatory journalism, online media, libertarian theory, objectivity
Citation
Udende, P., Ashiekpe, J. A. & Mustapha, M. L. (2016). An evaluation of Sahara Reporters as a platform of participatory journalism. Novena Journal of Communication, 1, 37-51