Block-2 Reporting - Types and Tools

News Room Set-Up
and Functioning of
Print Media
BLOCK 2
REPORTING: TYPES AND TOOLS
43
Basics of News
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News Reporting:
UNIT 4 NEWS REPORTING: DIFFERENT Different Types
TYPES
Structure
4.0 Introduction
4.1 Learning Outcomes
4.2 News Reporting
4.3 Types of News Reporting
4.3.1 General Reporting
4.3.2 Business Reporting
4.3.3 Sports Reporting
4.3.4 Political Reporting
4.3.5 Religious Reporting
4.3.6 Entertainment Reporting
4.3.7 Parliamentary Reporting
4.3.8 Conflict Zone Reporting
4.3.9 Investigative Reporting
4.3.10 Juridical Reporting
4.3.11 Crime Reporting
4.3.12 Reporting Developmental Issues
4.4 Reporting From Government Establishments
4.5 Reporting From Non-Governmental Establishments
4.6 Reporting Based On Its Nature of Its Content and Presentation
4.6.1 Objective Reporting
4.6.2 Imperative and Analytical Reporting
4.7 Process of News Reporting
4.7.1 The Subject of Reporting
4.7.2 Managing Contacts
4.7.3 Personally Visiting the Location
4.7.4 Taking Bytes and Interviews
4.7.5 Collecting Information from Secondary Sources
4.7.6 Doing Research and Findings
4.7.7 Exploring Library or Internet
4.7.8 Writing the News Report
4.7.9 Following up The News Chain
4.8 Right To Information (RTI)
4.9 Ethics and Principles
4.10 Let Us Sum Up
4.11 Further Readings
4.12 Check Your Progress: Possible Answers
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Reporting: Types
and Tools 4.0 INTRODUCTION
In previous units we have discussed about the concept of news, news sources
and structure of newsroom. Now in this unit, you are going to learn about the
different types of news reporting. News reporting can be classified broadly
on the grounds of its sources, its subject and nature of its content. This unit
will acquaint you with various aspects of the news reporting, its techniques
and basic guidelines of writing a news report.
4.1 LEARNING OUTCOMES

On completing this unit you will be able to:
• understand what is news reporting and the essentials for it;
• segregate types of news reports; and
• explore ethics, skills and other important tools needed in different types
of news report.
4.2 NEWS REPORTING

You have studied what is news and also understood the integral parts of
reporting in earlier units. Now let us understand types of news reporting in
this Unit.
Who is a news reporter?
A news reporter must possess some basic qualities, like integrity, diligence,
empathy and being observant. He or she should be aware of social, political
and cultural environment of his or her domain. A reporter must also have
good news sense and analytical ability, so that he or she can easily connect
the missing threads of associated incidents. Above all, a reporter must have
clarity over use of the language, so that his/her expressions are accurate and
reliable. These qualities are attained in a slow process and a reporter keeps
updating oneself always to perform better.
4.3 TYPES OF NEWS REPORTING

News reporting is an art of brining truth to the front in an impactful manner.
Sometimes it happens when we get moved by a news story of a particular
newspaper or website while other papers have also published the same news
but we like presentation of one more than the other. This is about the style of
that particular news reporting. Let us focus on types of news reporting.
4.3.1 General Reporting

The Day to day events of life which are of importance to many are been
reported. Many news channels today are 24 hours broadcasting channels,
news papers are daily and news websites keep on updating with current news.
Many events are reported, big announcements by private or public firms,
government or Non-governmental organizations etc. These all comes under
general reporting or we can say day-to day reporting. These news items must
mention 5Ws and 1 H. Mostly they do not require further follow-ups without
46 any new angle been added
4.3.2 Business Reporting News Reporting:
Different Types
The economic aspects are very important to be reported by any news media.
Whether its print media or broadcast media or digital media, the business
segments are very popular. The reporter must possess good knowledge of
economics. A background in commerce or economics field helps in such kind
of reporting. Business reporting contains current updates regarding share
market as well as detailed analysis of it. There are also future predictions by
experts and different angles are explored. This type of reporting covers
various business and economic related activities at national and international
levels.
4.3.3 Sports Reporting

Worldwide different sports are popular. Sports news is highly demanded. The
reporting has to be very fast and accurate. Sports venues are fully packed, so
required arrangements for the journalist are to be made before hand only. A
sports reporter has to be vigilant at all times. Small moments should not be
missed as they can be changing the course of game. The names of players,
the rules and regulations of the game, the coaching staff, the game conditions
are very important to be understood by the reporter. A sports reporter can talk
to players and also take public opinion for the game. The reporting must also
contain information about any records been broken, any new rule been
implemented, any future impact that game is holding etc. A sports reporter
can also compare current game with any other game as per the situation.
Sometimes a game is not been publically noticed as team has not achieved
much in that particular game but a good sports reporter will keep an eye on it.
While reporting sports, without knowing the rules or observing the game, it
will be difficult to write a good news report on it. It is necessary to highlight
the key moments to give a better understanding of that game to the audience.
4.3.4 Political Reporting

The reporting of important political events, press conferences, changes in
power, political rallies etc is done under this category. India is a democratic
nation and there are different political scenarios that take place and makes
news. The style of political reporting changes with the course of time. At the
times of election, opinion surveys and exit polls are conducted by several
media channels. Many news channels broadcast important speeches and print
media prepares report covering most of important points of speeches.
Political reporter should be in touch with spokespersons of political parties,
maintain contact with prominent leaders and have the ability to connect
undefined threads of two associated issues. There are estimations done by
political gurus or leaders which are also covered many a times. But one has to
be very careful about reporting the facts and figures and while mentioning the
opinion of a person, journalist should clearly mention that it is an opinion.
4.3.5 Religious Reporting

Reporting of important religious events is very important especially in a
country like India. India is a religious country and there are many religions
which are practiced in different parts of the country. Religious reporting is a
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Reporting: Types very crucial task. The sanctity of the event is to be maintained, the respect
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and regard of everyone has to be taken care of, and the feeling of the event is
also to be maintained in the news piece. Sometimes people give misleading
statements to hurt the sentiments of a particular religion or caste. In such
scenario reporter must act with utmost care. One wrong statement can make
the situation worse and can result into property damages or riots as well. The
words should be humble and unbiased. Personal practices or mentality of the
reporter should not impact the report.
4.3.6 Entertainment Reporting

Entertainment industry is growing day by day. With the growth of digital
media platforms and social media influencers, entertainment industry is no
longer limited to a few stars or actors. In such scenario entertainment
reporting is highly in demand. People are curios of what is happening in the
entertainment world.
Areas of art, theatre, cinema, TV, OTT and cultural activities are fields,
which stimulate the mass fantasy and thus become the domain of wide public
interest. All the news from this segment caters to readers from all the sections
of the society. There are segments in the newspapers, TV news channels,
news websites or the entire magazines that deal with this segment. Reporting
in this segment, needs a good connectivity of contacts with celebrities and an
ability to raise some good questions of mass appeal.
4.3.7 Parliamentary Reporting

Parliamentary Reporting in India is reporting from the premises of Parliament
at central level or from the premises of Assemblies at State Level and Union
Territories. Parliamentary Reporting is a specialisation that requires in-depth
knowledge of the constitution, parliamentary proceedings and familiarity
with the political, cultural, social and economic history of the region. The
reporter should be aware of local regulations for access, privilege and use of
cameras, recorders and so on in the premises. Also, reporters must need to
recognize faces of members of the house, they are reporting. The reporter,
accredited to the press gallery of the house is eligible to report for a given
session of the house. The parliamentary reporter must possess the quality of
fast grasping of speeches made my members and he or she should have
capability of interpreting debates and reports presented on the desk of the
house.
4.3.8 Conflict Zone Reporting

Reporting from a conflict zone is most challenging kind of reporting. Conflict
zones are regions; which are either under a war, riot, mutiny, civil war or
under other kinds of conflict, which have accelerated the prevalence of mass
violence on regular basis. A conflict zone remains under the control of two or
more violent groups. A reporter has to go to this zone in person and report the
reality, without being influenced by any group. As the violence understands
no law, reporters while reporting in conflict zone, need to save their lives too.
Most of the times, reporter becomes part of a certain group in a conflict zone
and report news according to standpoint of an associated group. This group
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can be a military unit. This phenomenon is a special kind of reporting from News Reporting:
Different Types
conflict zone, termed as Embedded Journalism.
4.3.9 Investigative Reporting

Investigative reporting is a kind of reporting in which facts are not accessible
and a reporter needs to investigate in depth to uncover the secrets and bring
the accessible news to common acquaintance. The area of investigative
reporting may be serious crimes, political corruption, or corporate misdeeds.
This is a process of reporting facts of grave seriousness duly covered and put
out of the sight of the masses by the perpetrators. A reporter, in this case, is
expected to dig and present these hidden facts. The perpetrators of the crime
may belong to a powerful section of the society and an investigative reporter
may face danger while unraveling the complications of hidden realities and
facts that the society must know. A well trained and observant journalist can
do this. No impulsive decision should be taken. Everything must be planned
with safety protocols.
4.3.10 Judicial Reporting

Reporting from the various courts of law is called Judicial Reporting. One
should understand the court proceedings for judicial reporting. The Indian
judicial system works at different levels of district courts, High Courts and
the Supreme Court. There are different courts for the criminal cases and civil
cases. The reporter must ensure that there is no mixing of personal opinion,
comment or forecasts at the time of reporting any sub-judice case, as doing so
can be deemed as contempt of the court, which is an offense by law.
4.3.11 Crime and Accident Reporting

No society is free of crime and accidents. Reporting them may also be a kind
of news, the idea of which generates at the source of its origin, but most of
the times crimes and accidents are reported much later than their occurrence.
A reporter needs to visit the place of occurrence of crime and accident and he
or she should personally examine the places. He or should try to interview
eyewitnesses, asking them all the possible questions related to the incidence.
Viewpoints of all concerned persons or groups should be taken into account.
The reporter should also collect the required documentary and substantial
evidences, if available and cross verify all the facts.
4.3.12 Reporting Developmental Issues

Reporting developmental issues is an important type of reporting at least in
developing countries. It can include different types of development activities
in various fields such as farming, infrastructure, social welfare schemes and
their implementation, development of marginalized sections, etc.
4.4 REPORTING FROM GOVERNMENT

ESTABLISHMENTS
Government Establishments like collectorates, police stations, hospitals,
schools, academies, municipal corporations, transport authorities, railway
stations, fire brigades, and many other departments work according to a 49
Reporting: Types definite set of rules and regulations and they have their fixed system of
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maintaining information. The reporter needs to develop and maintain contacts
in the departments of the news beat, one is covering. Also, one must know
the exact procedure, by which one can fetch authentic information. A reporter
can dig up a pool of crime news from premises of a police station. He or she
can find a round of news related to health issues from hospitals. Also, as
hospitals are home to many crime and accident victims, so the premises may
be the source of crime and accident news as well. Likewise other government
establishments are confirmed sources of various types of news. Apart from
digging up the news, a reporter should be in touch with Public Relation (PR)
personnel of these establishments, so that they can provide regular news
inputs. But the reporter must verify the news inputs received from PR
personnel.
4.5 REPORTING FROM NON -GOVERNMENT

ESTABLISHMENTS
Non-Government establishment are broadly categorized as business or
corporate organizations and not for profit organizations. Academies and
hospitals may also be non – government establishments and as discussed
earlier, they are also rich source of news. In both these establishments, there
is a Public Relations department, which regularly channelizes news of their
achievements to the reporters. This is a good source of news, but a reporter
should be alert for not becoming a part of their PR cycle. For this, he or she
should always try to smell anything undue News should concern the mass on
a larger scale and should always be reported after a detailed investigation.
Activity – 1
Take one English and one Hindi newspaper for a week. Search development
news in them. Make a comparison table and write your observations after the
comparison.
Check Your Progress 1

Note: 1) Use the space given below for your answer
2) Compare your answer with those given at the end of this Unit.
1. Explain any three types of news reporting.
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4.6 REPORTING BASED ON NATURE OF ITS

CONTENT PRESENTATION
News reports may be written down in different formats and on the basis of its
content presentation, there needs to be a slight change in approach of
50 reporting.
4.6.1 Objective Reporting News Reporting:
Different Types
When a news report has to be presented as the fact is, it is called objective or
factual reporting. In this case, the reporter only reports the facts which he or
she experiences through sensory organs like eyes and ears or when some
documentary evidence is available. In objective reporting, the reporter does
not mix up personal views with the news reported. One is not allowed to
share one’s logical interpretation. The reporter abstains from any kind of
value judgment and he or she should also not show empathy or hostility. In
the process of objective reporting, a reporter very smartly withdraws oneself
from the piece of news. This is the purest form of news reporting.
4.6.2 Interpretative and Analytical Reporting

Apart from the purest form of reporting, i.e. objective or factual reporting,
there are other forms of reporting which are not so pure, because they are an
amalgamation of news and feature. When a reporter takes the liberty of
expressing his or her own explanations, interpretations and analysis while
reporting a piece of news, it is called interpretative or analytical reporting. In
Contrary to the principles of pure reporting, analytical reporting is the art of
presenting the analysis of known facts in order to interpret and find out the
most logical conclusion for any unknown or hidden truth. The process may
include investigation and research.
Interpretative reporting has many variants. This is also called featurised

reporting, in which a reporter gathers news, makes interpretations and
presents the story as a blend of news and feature. This may include making a
word-sketch of an historical event or it may be just a backgrounder of any
other factual story.

1. Explain Imperative/ Analytical reporting.
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4.7 PROCESS OF NEWS REPORTING

Reporting news includes various steps of which a news reporter should
follow. These steps are as follows:
4.7.1 Identifying Story Ideas

Before starting reporting it is important to ascertain the exact storyline.
Storyline is a basic idea, around which a reporter reports a piece of news. For
this, either the reporter should go to regular sources of news origin or pursue
instructions of the editor, but before starting, one must know the storyline 51
Reporting: Types on which the whole reporting process has to be carried out. One should feel
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free to ask around, especially PROs and concerned officials for story ideas.
Story idea can also be generated by studying earlier published news items.
Social Media and websites may also lead a reporter to a brilliant story idea.
Press Releases and Press Conferences are also regular source of news idea.
4.7.2 Managing Contacts

Second step is to decide which contacts can be used for the particular story
you are doing. Contacts, in the field of journalism, are the most precious
asset. From the very first day of being in the profession, a reporter must start
various exercises to create a large network of useful contacts, which may
convert to potential sources of news, when required. Internet and Social
Media can also be used as a link to create a resourceful contact, which can
lead to competent news ideas.
4.7.3 Personally Visiting the Location

Whenever a newsworthy event happens a reporter needs to visit the location
of its occurrence to have a first hand and most authentic short of information.
He/ she should meet the concerned persons and try to know, what actually
happened from the persons. He/she must talk to the eye witnesses or people
associated with the occurrence in any way. A reporter should try to record
verbal evidences, copy documentary evidences and take some photographs of
the locality, if required.
4.7.4 Taking Bytes and Interviews

As per the requirement any Interview with connected persons is an important
way to gather information required to file a news report. A reporter should try
to get interviews from all concerned parties without being biased. It is the
duty of the reporter to show both sides of the coin. For example after
knowing the opinions of all concerned parties, a reporter doing objective
reporting, should only present the actual views of parties. But, when doing a
piece of interpretative reporting, a reporter has the liberty to examine the in-
depth authenticity of the opinions gathered from various interviews.
4.7.5 Collecting Information from Secondary Sources

Secondary sources are the sources, which a reporter has not personally met or
gathered information from. Secondary sources includes the information,
gathered by others. This information may be in the form of earlier news
reports, research findings, answers to RTI queries and facts or information
collected from archives, libraries or from internet.
4.7.6 Research and Reports

There are various government departments which release research and survey
data under various fields on regular basis. Annual Reports of Various
Ministries, Census Records and Data from National Crime Records Bureau
(NCRB) are secondary sources of information, which can be used in news
reporting. Reports from international agencies also publish research and
survey data with plenty of analysis. A reporter should be familiar with the
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language of these reports and use their concerned findings selectively in a News Reporting:
Different Types
related news report.
4.7.7 Exploring Library or Archive or Internet

As and when information is needed, a reporter can take help from Library,
Archive and Internet. These sources have plentiful information and a reporter
must have capability to search out the required piece of information required
for supplementing a news item. Also one can start a story on revisiting and
rechecking the kind of information as one would find a wide scope for stories
in the such vast information pool.
4.7.8 Writing the News Report

The news report is filed. According to the word limit and placement of news
piece, the reporter writes the news. Continuity of the article is to be
maintained properly. The reader should feel like reading a factual news piece.
Differrent news-papers, magazines, digital websites have their own style of
writing. News reporter would follow the style on firm they are working in.
News ethics should be the priority. The vocabulary, the spellings have to be
double checked specially the names mentioned in the story. If the person is at
authoritative position or if it is considered disrespectful then one spelling
mistake can have major consequences.
4.7.9 Following Up the News Chain

The job of reporting does not end after filing a news report. There are follow-
ups of each news item. A dutiful reporter keeps his or her eyes on every new
developments of news, he had earlier reported. When any significant
development takes place and reporter understands that the development will
be of the interest to the reader, he or she keeps providing follow-ups.
4.8 RIGHT TO INFORMATION (RTI)

According to Right to Information Act, 2005 every Indian citizen has right to
ask questions and have information in written form from all the constitutional
authorities, including the executive, legislature and judiciary; any institution
or body established or constituted by an act of Parliament or state legislature,
by submitting an application and the requisite fee. An Indian reporter may
also use this act to gather information from all the government set-ups,
controlled by either central or state governments.
4.9 ETHICS
When you become a news reporter, you play a crucial part in development
and awareness of fellow countrymen. Media is said to be the fourth pillar of
democracy. So remember that news reporting has its code of ethics which
you need to follow at all costs. Accuracy is most important among these
ethical standards. A reporter must not file inaccurate, misleading or distorted
information, data, facts or images. One should neither misquote anyone nor
distort the statement by deleting lines. A reporter should publish only the
facts that the sources reveal on record, a reporter should never report off the
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Reporting: Types record statements.
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The reporter should protect the privacy of the source if it is not done than
there is chance you put your source in danger. It may have serious
consequences. The news reported should not be meant to harass in any way.
It should not evoke communal violence or should not hurt the sentiments of
particular social group or class. It is very important to remember that you
cannot name a sexual victim or publish their photograph or video. While
reporting, a reporter should not intrude into someone’s grief or sorrow.
Asking a victim, how is s/he feeling, is just a kind of insensitive behavior and
thus an unethical approach of reporting. Interrogating minors, without the
guardian’s permission, is also unethical. A reporter should always avoid these
unethical approaches.
Check Your Progress - 3

1. What is RTI ?
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4.10 LET US SUM UP

In this unit, we have discussed what is news reporting and what are the
various types of it. We talked about business reporting, sports reporting,
political reporting, investigative reporting and many more. The entire process
of news reporting has been discussed in detail. Apart from it, use of RTI in
reporting has also been included in this unit. And at the end, you learnt about
journalistic ethics applicable in news reporting.
4.11 FURTHER READINGS

Bill Kovach & Tom Rosenstiel (2014, 3rd Ed.): The Elements of Journalism:
What Newspeople Should Know and the Public Should Expect, Crown
Publishers, New York
David Spark & Geoffrey Harris (2012, 4th Ed.): Practical Newspaper
Reporting, Sage Publications India Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi
Jorgen Westertahl, “Objective News Reporting: General Premises”

Communication Research, 10, no. 3 (1983) p. 403-405
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News Reporting:
4.12 CHECK YOUR PROGRESS: POSSIBLE Different Types
ANSWERS
1. Sports Reporting : Sports news is highly demanded. The reporting has
to be very fast and accurate. Sports venues are fully packed, so required
arrangements for the journalist are to be made before hand only. A sports
reporter has to be vigilant at all times. Small moments should not be
missed as they can be changing the course of game. The names of
players, the rules and regulations of the game, the coaching staff, the
game conditions are very important to be understood by the reporter. A
sports reporter can talk to players and also take public opinion for the
game. The reporting must also contain information about any records
been broken, any new rule been implemented, any future impact that
game is holding etc.
Political Reporting : The reporting of important political events, press
conferences , changes in power ,political rallies etc is done under this
category. India is a democratic nation and there are different political
scenarios that take place and makes news. The style of political reporting
changes with the course of time. At the times of election, exit polls are
conducted by several media channels. Many news channels broadcast
important speeches and print media prepares report covering most of
important points of speeches. Political reporter should be in touch with
spokespersons of political parties, maintain contact with prominent
leaders and have the ability to connect undefined threads of two
associated issues.
Religious Reporting : Reporting of important religious events is very
important especially in a country like India. India is a religious country
and there are many religions which are practiced in different parts of the
country. Religious reporting is a very crucial task. The sanctity of the
event is to be maintained, the respect and regard of everyone has to be
taken care of and the feeling of the event is also to be maintained in the
news piece.
1. When a reporter takes the liberty of expressing his or her own
explanations, interpretations and analysis while reporting a piece of
news, it is called interpretative or analytical reporting. In Contrary to the
principles of pure reporting, analytical reporting is the art of presenting
the analysis of known facts in order to interpret and find out the most
logical conclusion for any unknown or hidden truth. The process may
include investigation and research.
1. According to Right to Information Act, 2005 every Indian citizen has
right to ask questions and have information in written form from all the
constitutional authorities, including the executive, legislature and
judiciary; any institution or body established or constituted by an act of
Parliament or state legislature, by submitting an application and the
requisite fee.
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Reporting: Types
and Tools UNIT 5 RESEARCH FOR JOURNALISTIC
WRITINGS
Structure
5.0 Introduction
5.2 What is Research ?
5.3 Importance of Research
5.4 Types of Research
5.4.1 Qualitative Research
5.4.2 Quantitative Research
5.5 Need of Research in Media Industry and Its Use
5.5.1 The Need of Media Research
5.5.2 Benefits of Research
5.5.3 Research and Journalism
5.6 Scope of Research in Journalism
5.7 Let Us Sum Up
5.8 Keywords
5.9 Further Readings
5.1 INTRODUCTION
Research is described as the systematic way of enquiry intended to find truth
that includes various sequential steps . Research supports and approves or
denies a claim or statement based on a specific idea. It generates answers of
some questions and paves way for further researches to be conducted.
Research essentially provides new insights and fresh directions to the
problems undertaken by researcher. It is an unbiased and logical approach
which leads to formulation of theories/laws, establishment of facts, finding
numerous answers or finding different dimensions of truth.
Journalists have been using research to generate various stories and such
stories have grabbed public attention. A journalist seeks truth without
personal bias. A good research assists any story to serve the purpose and
intent .You can mention investigative stories as one of the best examples of
effective use of research in journalism. After identification of the story, a
good journalist opts for a suitable research method/methods to explore
various aspects associated with the story than siding with one. Journalistic
research is purpose-oriented and by adding value judgement, a journalist
often provides unique and appropriate solutions to the existing problems.
56 After studying this unit, you will be able to:

• describe meaning and importance of research for journalists; Research for
Journalistic
• use various methods and tools of research used by journalists for Writings
presenting a story;
• indentify various aspects of research in media industry; and
• differentiate between academic and journalistic research.
5.2 WHAT IS RESEARCH?

Many scholars, institutions, reports, encyclopedia, dictionaries have defined
research with different description but establishes the same meaning. If we
conclude we can say that research in systematic and logical manner tries to
discover truth. Research finds answer of the questions with the help of
scientific methods and in this process new theories and principles are
formulated, existing theories are re-evaluated to be upgraded and modified,
or can be completely rejected.
5.3 IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH

Research is important for human society as a it brings in new knowledge. It
happens by putting forward an entirely original idea or theory and by
exploring new horizons of knowledge. It gives new insight to the subject and
new direction to human thinking and action. Research defines and explores
interrelationships between different variables and thus establishes new
theories and principles. These theories and principles work as the foundation
and influence the development of society. Research makes meaningful
contributions by resolving contradictions in the field of knowledge. This is
also true for mass communication. Different paradigms of understanding and
explaining mass communication have been established, challenged, modified
and replaced by great research works. Research is the foundation for all
disciplines, development and structural changes and logical answers to
questions which are raised in the quest of knowledge.
5.4 TYPES OF RESEARCH

Research is the foundation of every field. Many companies have their own
research and development departments. Research is not limited to studies but
it enhances the horizons of studying. Let us understand the types of research:
5.4.1 Qualitative Research

Research that explores the variables subjectively and may use methods like
observation, In-depth Interviews etc to find answers. It includes patiently
studying of subject though different angles and requires deep knowledge of
the concerned matter.
5.4.2 Quantitative Research

It requires the facts and figures to be held with utmost sincerity. It may deal
with one or more than one variable and study its co-relation. More calculative
measure are used in this kind of research. The subject can be quantified in
numbers or any other unit of measure.
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Reporting: Types Research can be further divided into different types on the basis of various
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factors.
5.5 NEED OF RESEARCH IN MEDIA INDUSTRY

Media is a holistic term comprising of print media, electronic media, cinema,
traditional folk media and new media or digital media. Media has influenced
the thinking, opinion and perception of human society and is considered as
one of the vital institutions in democratic structures. It performs the functions
of a watchdog and agenda setter.
Since it is an important discipline to study, media research has become

indispensable for all academics, society and the industry itself. Besides
communication scholars, scholars from Sociology, Political Science and
Psychology are also interested in media and communication research.
Research is essential for journalistic practices too. Now a days screen
presentations, lay-out and design of media products are finalized after
receiving research based inputs from marketing sections. So many good
stories need research support for logical and objective presentation of facts.
You might have seen numerous news items based on facts, figures and data.
These stories analyse some of the important issues which need research
inputs to get meaningful and interesting shapes.
5.5.1 The Need of Media Research

Advertising and promotion is an integral part of media. The reach of
newspapers, TV channels, radio channels and these days several OTT
platforms is been checked from time to time. To be more accurate the
receptivity of particular shows on air and the time slots are been monitored as
well. There are various agencies that measure the reach of different media.
For e.g. Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) is an industry body
founded by stakeholders of advertisers, broadcasters and advertising and
media agencies. It is set up for measuring the TV audience in India.
Similarly, Media Research Users Council (MRUC) which was set up in 1994
is yet another not-for profit industry body that brings out many research
reports regularly. These include the Indian Readership Survey (IRS) which
studies and brings out reach and readership of various print media
publications. Indian Outdoor Survey which is a measurement system on
outdoor media and Indian Listenership track which is a day after recall study
of radio listenership. Various marketing research methods are used by media
houses to analyse their market presence and develop, change or modify
marketing and sales strategies.
5.5.2 Benefits of Research

Research being the basis of decision making requires prolonged and
dedicated efforts. Let us understand the benefits of doing a research:
a) It provides a certain level of accuracy which cannot be achieved by any

other method.
b) It strengthen any viewpoint and gives sustenance to a given statement
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c) It leads to new resolutions to old problems. Research for
Journalistic
d) It creates a new thought process that can have major impact in different Writings
areas of life
e) It helps in development of technology and makes life easier.
f) It helps in establishment of new facts.
g) It serves as basis of formulation of new laws.
h) It also raises questions on previously established patterns and provide a
fresh intake on concerned topics.
i) It helps replicating the needed result at other places too. Many researches
are used as an example for other places. Like a medical drug is
developed for curing a deadly virus, now the same researched formula
can be used to replicate the result in other labs.
j) It helps solving crimes, mysteries and other unsolved problems of
different areas. There are forensic teams who analyse the data at any
crime scene. Also some of world’s greatest mysteries lies in the universe.
Many scientists have dedicated their lives to finding out the truth.
k) It helps to identify mass patterns and access the need, likes or deslikes of
public. Many product manufacturing or marketing firms perform
researches and then sell their product accordingly.
5.5.3 Research and Journalism

New age journalism has grown with strong base of principles and availability
of modern research tools and techniques. A Journalist today has been
exposed to a situation with multi facets and requires an approach that
connects to truth.
A journalist collects first hand information which is known as ‘Primary data’
and also uses information related to the story which was previously available
in form of any photographs, videos, texts or any other means. That data is
called ‘Secondary data’ in the field of research. For example a journalist
going and asking members of an area about municipal corporation work
makes authorities answerable and can have an practical impact on lives of
people. Another example of research can be a sports journalist analysing past
games to give insight of otherwise gone unnoticed actions or scenarios.
Although ethics should never be compromised while doing a research for any
story. Data should be collected in a legal and harmless manner. Research
makes story more descript, interesting and meaningful. A well researched
piece also catches more eye balls and sometimes may result into bringing big
changes in society. Sometimes Journalists uses other’s research to generate a
much needed story. In such cases it is important to cite the author and
organization who has conducted the research, for example of special days
like ‘World diabetes day’ or ‘World Mental Health day’ researches done by
World Health Organization, Indian Council of Medical Research etc are
published. It provides meaning and larger perspective to any current
happening or in general lets people see the larger picture of an issue.
Powerful words integrated with a strong research helps build up a good story.
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Reporting: Types In the world of Digital media. A lot of data is available on single click. This
and Tools
has made a journalist work easy and difficult at the same time. The access to
data is undeniably a strong force but a journalist has to vigilant about the
usage of sources. Many websites even visuals are manipulated and supply
wrong information. Without cross verification, no information should be
used. One wrong judgement of a journalist can defame people or even disturb
harmony at large. Journalists mostly use the tool of survey. In such cases
right ‘sampling’ is required. One has to select the participants that would
correctively represent the audience. For example if a story is done on mental
health of married women. Then the sample must include housemakers,
working women, city women, rural women etc. To get an unbiased and
effective result.
You can often find special or short interval volumes of magazines publishing
lead stories which are outcome of research. During the time of elections
opinion poll based stories get popularity. Such stories are examples of well-
planned research work specifically conducted by journalists and research
teams of the channel or newspaper. Popular taglines are highlighted and
comparison approach is used to present the story. Audience prioritizes these
stories when they get to read or see who all stand in the race for prime
ministership or which party is predicted to perform well or poorly in which
area. General elections are celebrated components of our democracy which
are awaited by media industry eagerly. You can observe the increasing
presence of these survey based stories in news media well ahead of the actual
election.
Another kind of research based story published during election time is exit
poll survey. Exit poll is conducted on the election day and mostly just after
the electorate has casted the vote. The preferred place to conduct exit poll is
the polling station area. Exit polls have helped newspapers and other news
organisations to gain viewership/readership and revenue through
advertisements. Exit poll is conducted in most countries where democratic
election process takes place. News stories based on the exit poll results and
associated analysis sometimes influences the voter’s decision. This is
considered as unethical manipulation by Election Commission of India and
they have imposed ban on publishing such analysis unless the last vote is
casted. Now a days most of the exit poll survey researches are conducted by
professional organisations in collaboration with media houses.
Research is used by journalists to develop stories for the subject of lifestyle

journalism too. These stories dealing with subjects like satisfaction with
married life, fashion, tour and travel, voting for favourite destinations and
role models, etc. Most of these stories are based on survey research and
findings are interpreted as per requirement of the media houses. You might
have seen famous survey based stories on lifestyle component in some
popular magazines of our country. Started with a view to give variety to the
readers, these stories and issues have become a regular part of the
publication.
You will find a number of news items in news media based on research
works done by researchers, scientists, research institutions and labs. These
60
research works are of vital importance for society as well as help journalists Research for
Journalistic
to write stories which are mature and complete. Research findings on health, Writings
sanitation, medicines, technological advancements, agriculture and other
issues of public interest help journalists to cover these issues more
significantly and full of relevant information.
Environmental issues are now top concern for everybody. You must have
observed many stories on subjects like climate change, pollution,
deforestation, biodiversity, waste management frequently appearing in news.
People carefully read these stories and make their opinion for contributions or
corrective actions. Most of these stories are developed on research finding
and journalists convert or interpret these findings into interesting pieces of
writing. Since last few years we have been witnessing lead stories on the
pollution index and ranking of most polluted cities of our country. This is a
fine example of research based story where figures are turned into interesting,
thought provoking journalistic writings. Such findings provide ample scope
to journalists to use statistical tools like graph, diagrams, animations, tables
and make story understandable, interesting and graspable.
Development journalism is that area of journalism where research helps
journalists to present meaningful reports. Research in development
journalism is used for both telling the readers latest developments as well as
investigating and presenting clear picture on the credibility and usefulness of
the development measures. True development journalism is not limited to
describing the happening or narrating the version of others with journalistic
flair. It includes researching the elements of story including background,
exposing if anything unusual or odd is happening and decode the meaning,
motives and perspectives of the communication. Research is the key
component to present a meaningful and substantial report on the subject.

1. Explain usage of Research in Journalism.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
2. What is the most popular research tool used in journalism ?
.....................................................................................................................
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5.5 SCOPE OF RESEARCH IN JOURNALISM

The world of media is growing at a fast pace. Public and private broadcasters
are expanding the horizons. Print media is revolutionizing and digital media
has took over with its speed and accessibility. In such scenario need of
research is explicit. Let us take a look at its future prospects.
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Reporting: Types There has always been a research and reference section in newspaper offices
and Tools
where important information and references are stored. When required, such
data base is used by journalists to make their story effective and complete.
Normally developing a story starts with collection of information. This
collected information is analysed and deduced by journalist according to need
and then communicated to the audiences. This process of developing a story
is similar to the process of doing research in social and behavioral sciences.
In the age of digital technology and availability of huge data, the use of
research techniques in journalistic writings has re-emerged. Philip Meyer in
his work Precision Journalism coined the same term (Precision Journalism) to
describe the use of social science tools and techniques to present in-depth and
accurate stories. Digital media has enabled journalists to gather information
with the help of digital media tools. Use of digital technologies to analyse
huge data and explore socio- cultural, demographic, political and
geographical perspectives behind the issue has increased the quality, intensity
and effectiveness of the reports presented to the public. The use of social
science techniques to gather and analyze data has transformed the
investigative journalism by making it more concrete, precise and
comprehensive.
With increasing presence of multiple digital platforms of news dissemination,
journalism has turned to be more analytical in nature hence research has
become an important tool to develop stories which are fresh, meaningful and
exposing new dimensions of the issue. The process of globalization and
economic liberalization has also asserted the need to use research in
journalistic practices. Segmentation and customization strategies also refer to
use of research inputs to develop news stories which are suitable for niche
audiences.
Now a days, in the age of big data and internet based information platforms
the term ‘Data Journalism’ has also become prevalent which indicates a
process of developing stories with the help of technology by monitoring,
compiling, analyzing data through software and journalistic creativity. The
journalistic ability of storytelling interestingly is used to visualize and
illustrate the findings and perspectives of data. This blend of technological
sharpness and journalistic skills have transformed the numbers, and statistical
findings into certifiable, reliable, relevant and interesting news stories.
Research is not a new component of journalism. If you ask your parents, they
will tell you about analytical stories which have been published in the
newspapers since decades. On city page of the newspaper you might have
seen news reports narrating rise in the graph of crime in the city. The reporter
collects data for the crime reported in a specific period. This crime data is a
further divided into categories such as murder, attempt to murder, robbery,
crime against women etc. and often shown with the help of graphics or table.
The numbers are analysed qualitatively and the reporter ends the story with
remarks. The same pattern of developing a story can be seen on many other
subjects like pollution level, weather news, economic news, sports news etc.
The research tools and procedure followed are almost the same as applied by
any researcher to find answer of his or her research question.
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Research for
Activity – 1 Journalistic
Read one English and one Hindi newspaper/news website. Find and compare Writings
survey or data based news stories in them. Write your observations.

1. What is the need of research in media?
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5.7 LET US SUM UP

Research plays an important role in journalism. In this unit we have mainly
discussed research in the context of journalism. What is the use of research in
journalism? How do journalists use various research tools to increase the
impact and credibility of their news stories? How is data based news gaining
more importance? And how will research get more relevance in journalism in
the days to come? We talked about the answers to all these relevant questions
in this unit.
5.8 KEY WORDS

Sample: Sample is sub-set of the population. It is unit of the study chosen
from the study area.
Hypothesis: Hypothesis is the tentative generalization or assumption of
relationship between variables which has got to be tested.
Variables: Variable is any quantity which have different values. Research
basically defines correlation between different variables.
5.9 FURTHER READINGS

Klaus Bruhn Jensen (2003). A Handbook of Media and Communication
Research. Routledge. New Delhi.
Arthur Asa Berger (2012). Media Analysis Techniques. Sage, New Delhi.
5.10 CHECK YOUR PROGRESS: POSSIBLE

ANSWERS
Check Your Progress – 1
1. Research is the key component to present a meaningful and substantial
report on any issue. A journalist collects first-hand information which is
known as ‘Primary data’ and also uses information related to the story
which was previously available in form of any photographs, videos, texts
or any other means. That data is called ‘Secondary data’ in the field of
research.
63
Reporting: Types Research makes story more descript, interesting and meaningful. A well-
and Tools
researched piece also catches more eye balls and sometimes may result into
bringing big changes in society. Sometimes Journalists uses other’s research
to generate a much needed story.
Journalists mostly use the tool of survey and in-depth interviews. You can
often find special or short interval volumes of magazines publishing lead
stories which are outcome of research. During the time of elections opinion
poll based stories get popularity. Such stories are examples of well-planned
research work specifically conducted by journalists and research teams of the
channel or newspaper.
Another kind of research based story published during election time is exit
poll survey. Exit poll is conducted on the election day and mostly just after
the electorate has casted the vote.
Research is used by journalists to develop stories for the subject of lifestyle
journalism too. These stories dealing with subjects like satisfaction with
married life, fashion, tour and travel, voting for favourite destinations and
role models, etc. Most of these stories are based on survey research and
findings are interpreted as per requirement of the media houses.
You will find a number of news items in news media based on research
works done by researchers, scientists, research institutions and labs. These
research works are of vital importance for society as well as help journalists
to write stories which are mature and complete. Research findings on health,
sanitation, medicines, technological advancements, agriculture and other
issues of public interest help journalists to cover these issues more
significantly and full of relevant information.
Most of these stories are developed on research finding and journalists
convert or interpret these findings into interesting pieces of writing. Since last
few years we have been witnessing lead stories on the pollution index and
ranking of most polluted cities of our country. This is a fine example of
research based story where figures are turned into interesting, thought
provoking journalistic writings. Such findings provide ample scope to
journalists to use statistical tools like graph, diagrams, animations, tables and
make story understandable, interesting and graspable.
All the above points establish that research is very useful in journalism.
2. Survey
1. Media research has become indispensable for all academics, society and
the industry itself. Besides communication scholars, scholars from
Sociology, Political Science and Psychology are also interested in media
and communication research.
Research is essential for journalistic practices too. Now a days screen
presentations, lay-out and design of media products are finalized after
receiving research based inputs from marketing sections. So many good
stories need research support for logical and objective presentation of
facts. You might have seen numerous news items based on facts, figures
and data. These stories analyze some of the important issues which need
research inputs to get meaningful and interesting shapes.
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Interview: A
UNIT 6 INTERVIEW: A JOURNALISTIC Journalistic Tool
TOOL
Structure
6.0 Introduction
6.2 Requirements of Interview
6.2.1 Knowing the Interviewee
6.2.2 Getting an Appointment
6.2.3 Background Preparation of an Interview
6.2.4 Research for Interview
6.2.5 Things to Remember in any Interview
6.3 The Process of Interview and Skills Required
6.3.1 Phase 1: Preparation for Interview
6.3.2 Phase 2: Conducting an Interview
6.3.3 Phase 3: Concluding an Interview
6.3.4 Phase 4: Editing and Presentation
6.4 Ethical Practices in Interview
6.5 Let Us Sum Up
6.6 Further Reading
6.7 Key Words
6.0 INTRODUCTION
One of the most authentic source of information in journalism in Interview.
Whether it is a one day event or a life time success story, interview format
delivers its credibility. It is a one to one interaction that takes place between
and interviewer and interviewee. It can take place face to face personally or
by phone or even though video calls. With technological advancements the
techniques of interviewing have evolved too. Interviewee is a respondent and
he or she may be a celebrity or a news source or an expert of any field or a
victim of crime/disaster or an official of any organization or a distinguished
personality. it is important to mention that interview is a conversation
between two persons only. If the dialogue is not one- to-one, it is not an
interview
Information obtained in an interview is regarded as the most authentic and

reliable piece of journalistic content, as far as the personal opinion, views and
perception of an interviewee is concerned. The interviewer is a representative
of the target audience. S/he ask questions on audience behalf. So if you are
taking an interview please remember to put yourself at your target audience’s
place and then frame the questions. For example you are interviewing a
doctor and your target audience is general public who is not highly educated.
You might know many things about medicine but you would not use 65
Reporting: Types technical terminologies or ask questions beyond general understanding. But
and Tools
the questions will be restricted to the benefit of your audience. You are also
not allowed to impose one’s own opinion, views and perception to the final
output at the end.

After going through this unit you will be able to:
• understand clear definition of interview;
• prepare for an interview;
• learn interviewing skills; and
• describe different formats of interview.
6.2 REQUIREMENTS OF AN INTERVIEW

First and foremost it is very important to understand the process of an
interview. The clarity of what result are you expecting from the interview is
required too. The interviewer must have proper information about the
interviewee and also should have a good grasp on the subject of interview. It
is very important to know your target audience for whom you are taking that
interview. Background preparation helps the interviewer to take a good
interview or else it may not solve the purpose. Now let us understand in detail
what preparations are to be done for taking a good interview.
6.2.1 Knowing the Interviewee

If a news reporter is interviewing a person then it means the guest is
connected with a relevant news. Identifying whom to interview is very
important. Wrong or irrelevant interviews may prove to be a waste of time
and other resources. You have to make sure that the interview will add
something valuable to the news item. To make the news more valuable and
newsworthy you must ask yourself what is the credibility of the interviewee
and how well are they connected to the news piece you are writing. For
example, in an event of child abuse, you can interview a child psychologist, a
witness, a POSCO act specialist etc. When you decide whom to interview,
make sure you introduce that expert to the audience clearly. Their opinions
should be mentioned without any biases. Selection of interviewee depends
on nature and temperament of the program (in electronic media) and nature
and temperament of magazine or page in a newspaper or news website. Apart
from news sources or victims of a crime/disaster or an official of any
organization, who are usually interviewed to enrich the news content, there is
also a wide range of interviewees from the fields of politics, social work, arts,
literature, sports, fashion, cinema, economics, commerce, industry and other
miscellaneous domains, which shares their due space in the feature section of
media. The audience connects with these types of distinguished personalities.
6.2.2 Getting an Appointment

It is an important task to meet your guest for the first time and making them
comfortable to talk to you about their views and feelings. The interviewer
66
should have a warm personality and welcoming nature to establish a Interview: A
Journalistic Tool
connection with the guest. Before that it is most important task to get him or
her ready to share his/her feelings and opinions with you as an interviewer.
In cases of interviewing interviewees from fields of politics, social workers,

arts, literature, sports, fashion, cinema, economics, commerce, industry and
other miscellaneous domains, getting an appointment of the distinguished
personality is a tough task, because these personalities have a busy schedule
of engagements and seriously lack the availability of free time to converse
with an interviewer. Confidence and reliance in the role and representation of
a journalist or Media organization makes the process of getting appointment
easier.
When you are a part of media world, you try to develop various links and
contacts to approach such distinguished personalities. Interviewees are
contacted through phone calls or e-mail to fix an appointment and venue of a
prearranged interview. Journalists keep in contact with various Public
Relation Organizations, who also help in arranging these appointments.
On the other hand, sometime, some celebrities approach a well-known

interviewer or media organization to offer his or her interview. This is done
as a part of a Public Relation Drill or a promotion of any product, endorsed
by these celebrities.
While taking appointment for interview, following points should be kept in

mind :
• An interviewer should clearly communicate his name and a brief
introduction to the interviewee. One should also make sure that the
interviewee gets your contact details, which can be used in case he or she
wants to call you back.
• The interviewee should be made aware of the media organisation and
medium, where the proposed interview will feature.
• The interviewer should explain the purpose of the interview, elaborating
the planned theme of the proposed interview.
• The appointment should be made formally through email or contacting
the representative of the guest.
• The interviewer should be clear and precise in communication.
• The deadline of the interview should also be conveyed, so that the
interviewee can give an appointment beforehand.
In a case of interviewing for a news report, a reporter has to record the first
hand experiences of guest. In case you are interviewing a victim many times
they choose to abstain from speaking. This can be due to trauma of
victimization or fear of someone who may have stopped him or her from
commenting or sharing their sufferings. Also, distrust on an interviewer and
lack of confidence can restrict a possible news source from being a part of the
interview process. In such cases you have to make extra efforts to establish
trust and might give some time and space to the victim. They must be treated
with utmost respect and care. The sensitivity of matter should also be
maintained. 67
Reporting: Types 6.2.3 Background Preparation of an Interview
and Tools
Following background preparations are required for an interview :
• In case, an interviewee asks for a brief, written introduction of the theme

of proposed interview, it should be communicated.
• Interviewer should research about the interviewee beforehand. Past

accomplishment should be noted and other useful information should be
known.
• Interviewer should prepare sample questions and may send it to the

interviewee as per the requirement.
• After getting the appointment, an interviewer should e-mail a tentative

planning of the interview. This planning should include date, time,
venue, theme and duration of the interview.
• The interviewee must be aware of the mode of transportation to the

venue. Who will arrange transportation of interviewee to the venue
should also be made clear.
• On the pre-determined date of the interview, the interviewer should send
a gentle reminder to the interviewee via a text message or e-mail,
reminding of the scheduled interview in the day.
• Always double check the recording devices for any technical issue and
do a sample recording for cross checking.
6.2.4 Research for Interview

Research is an integral part of taking a good interview. You must research
well, before conducting an interview. First of all an interviewer should go
through the recent works of the interviewee. Also, an interviewer should have
a vivid understanding of the nature and sensitivity of the issue to be discussed
and explored in prescribed span of the interview. An interviewer can go
through books, check archives, and consult online materials available. The
interviewee also feels more interested and get more satisfaction with
intriguing questions and confident anchor. The impact generated is also great
when the interviewer is prepared well.
Apart from researching subject matter, an interviewer should design and

structure a list of questions to be asked. Although, framing of some questions
in an interview may be extempore, but it is wiser to have a set of questions
prepared beforehand and serve them in an appropriate sequence during an
interview.
After due preparation and research on subject matter and interviewee, an

interviewer should learn to be free from all kind of prejudice and
preconceived notions. He or she should be aware of facts, but should not
implicate his or her personal views and ideology, while conducting an
interview.
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6.2.5 Things to Remember in any Interview Interview: A
Journalistic Tool
While conducting an interview, an interviewer should keep in mind following

Do’s -
• Interviewer should be well prepared with the content and organized with
technical setup.
• Interviewer should be vigilant. S/he must observe the body language of
the interviewee and be able to ask good impromptu questions too.
• Interviewer should be polite. S/he must give respect with words and
gestures. If they think interview is going out of context, they can use
creative methods and friendly gestures to turn things around.
• Interviewer should be precise. S/he must ask questions in short and
simple language.
• Interviewer should stay calm and composed and sensitive towards the
interviewee.
• Interviewer should follow all the protocols. S/he must stick to the
allotted time frame and give a proper conclusion within that.
• Interviewer should be well versed with the correct pronunciation of
interviewee’s name and other related things.
• Interviewer should frame good and unique questions to give that
interview an edge over others. But the uniqueness should get along with
the theme of the interview.
• Interviewer should be to the point and punctual.
While conducting an interview, an interviewer should keep in mind following

list of don’ts –
• Interviewer should not beat about the bush.
• Interviewer should not put his words in interviewee’s mouth.
• Interviewer should not deviate from a pre-defined subject of the

interview.
• Interviewer should not blame or charge an interviewee of any kind of
crime, corruption or controversy without physical availability of a valid
documentary proof in this context.
• Interviewer should not talk on personal issues of the interviewee, unless

he or she has taken permission beforehand.
• Interviewer should not misquote anyone to have an interviewee’s

comment to create a sensation.
• Interviewer should not ask a hypothetical question to an interviewee, as
these questions are meaningless and never leads to a decisive conclusion.
69
Reporting: Types Check Your Progress 1
and Tools
1. While taking appointment for interview, what points should be kept in
mind?
.....................................................................................................................
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2. Explain how to Research for the interview.
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6.3 THE PROCESS OF AN INTERVIEW AND

SKILLS REQUIRED
The interviewer is representing the target audience. Interviewing techniques
are learnt and achieved through continuous process of observing and getting
experiences through performance or by assisting others in conducting
interviews. The process of interview can be divided into following phases:
6.3.1 Phase 1: Just before the Start

The first phase of an interview is mostly not visible by others. It consists of
mostly ground work and leads to starting of an interview. While conducting
an interview, a journalist should be polite, attentive, precise and to the point.
He or she should talk in a sensible and straight forward manner. Before
starting a formal interview, the journalist must check following things.
• There should be least distraction at the venue of the interview. The
atmosphere of the venue should be favaourable for one-to-one
conversation. Presence of any person or material, which can cause
distraction, should be kept away from the surroundings of the interview.
Mobile Phones should be switched off. If recording is being done on the
mobile phone, then fight mode should be turned on.
• Check the functioning of instruments of recording interview. The
conversation in an interview cannot be remembered by human brains.
Either it has to be noted down or recorded for future reference. The
interviewer must check that his pen is working well and s/he has enough
blank papers in case the interview is to be noted down. In the case of
interviews for television or radio, it is mandatory to check that the
required recording device are working properly.
• The rationale of the interview should be explained to the interviewee.
Before starting the talk, interviewer should briefly introduce and explain
the topics on which the interviewee has to respond. This prior
explanation, gives interviewee adequate time to prepare to respond in the
70 interview with accuracy.
• Interviewer should thank the interviewee for giving an appointment. This Interview: A
Journalistic Tool
makes the interviewee feel good. With a friendly start, he or she can
come forward with some new and fresh revelation, may be completely
unknown to the interviewer.
After checking and assuring about the abovementioned points, an interviewer

should start a formal conversation.
6.3.2 Phase 2: Conducting an Interview

Second phase or we can say the execution phase begins once all the
preparations are been completed. Now the interviewer has to make sure that
interview proceeds in accordance with the theme. The interviewer look to get
maximum response from the interviewee and also reveal some hidden facts.
For this purpose, the interviewer should keep in mind the following things –
• Interviewer should welcome the guest in a proper manner and then pose
the first question. The introduction part should be very crucial as it
establishes the context of the interview and also helps audience to
connect with the interview. It should be creatively executed.
• Interviewer should also highlight the importance of occasion of
interview. The style and feel of the interview should be according to the
theme and time. For example if it’s a sad or serious topic, the interviewee
should speak in that manner. Even if it is an interesting question, there
should not be over excitement in voice, gesture or words.
• Beginning of interview with friendly queries and comments builds trust
and a soothing environment. He or she expects a friendly conversation
that may not push him or her in an awkward situation. It engages
interviewee to the whole process of the interview, so that he or she starts
enjoying and contributing more to the interview. In this way the content
thus generated acquires better-off and more interesting substance.
• To reveal a hidden matter, an interviewer should outline the basic idea of
the subject and asks interviewee of his or her comment. But, the
interviewer should not start teaching or preaching.
• Many times, the journalist knows the details and truth of the subject
matter to be discussed and he or she needs only authentication,
affirmation and substantiation for the interviewee. In this type of
situation, one should not start with that one ‘desired question’. It may
happen that the interviewee cancels the talk to avoid answering any
uneasy question. At first an interviewer needs to attain a basic comfort
level with interviewee. Therefore, the conversation should start with easy
and relaxing questions. The interviewer should make interviewee feel
comfortable and confident.
• An interviewer should avoid types of question, which could possibly be
answered in terms of only ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Answer, in terms of only ‘yes’
or ‘no’, does not put significant value in the content of the interview.
• Interviewer should speak less and allow interviewee to speak more. After
asking a question, interviewer should remain silent and let interviewee to
speak as much as it suits the schedule and format of the interview. The 71
Reporting: Types interviewer should never interrupt an interviewee, unless the later is
and Tools
shifting from the basic theme of the conversation or misinterpreting the
question asked.
• Questions, asked by interviewers should be clear, precise and to the
point. An interviewer should not repeat the same questions and should
never complicate the talk. Questions should be such that demand to the
point answers and explanations in a polite manner. It should never be
baseless blaming, denouncing or indecent provocation by an interviewer.
Remember that an interview is a conversation and it should not become a
confrontation.
• It is responsibility of an interviewer to have full control over the
interview. Questions should remain around core theme of interview;
conversation should not deviate to other domain of issues and questions.
In process of having control over the interview an interviewer uses some
simple interviewing tools known as Bridge and Flag.
• Bridge is the tool through which an interviewer smoothly makes an
effective transition between topics. Like while walking one safety
crosses over a river through a bridge, in the same way an interviewer
tends to switch over from one topic to another. There are some proven
phases and sentences like – ‘You may be correct, but we need to
know…’, ‘In addition to what you said, our concern is…’ and ‘Very
politely, I need to mention that our study shows a different picture…’ –
work as a bridge in an interview.
• Other tool of controlling a conversation in an interview is to Flag.
Generally, an interviewer uses the technique of Flagging to highlight a
specific comment or instance, revealed in an interview. It can be done by
stressing on any specific note by verbally flagging it with phrases like
‘most important fact’ or ‘a critical point’ or ‘point to be remembered’.
• The interviewer should be attentive and show his or her full involvement
through the body language. He or she should be full of empathy, but
should also maintain a distance from the interviewee. Here, empathy
builds confidence for the interviewer, but on the other hand, maintaining
a distance helps him or her to raise questions as an indifferent entity.
• An interviewer should be aware of the time and accordingly should
schedule the questions and give appropriate time for their answers. He or
she should not be trapped in one issue. S/he should have the ability to
forgo an unnecessary discussion and turn the discussion to an interesting
and meaningful plane.
• In the case of Radio or Television interviews, an interviewer should
follow the instructions given by the program producer, who virtually
controls the programming of the interview and instructs the interviewer
from the control room with help of modern communication technology,
available at studio or OB Vans (Outside Broadcasting Vans).
• If an interviewer misses a name or quotation used by the interviewee, he
or she should ask and clarify it before the summation. In case, an
interviewer finds any inaccuracy or error in the interviewee’s
72
submission, one can point it out and confirm what the speaker actually Interview: A
Journalistic Tool
wanted to say.
• In cases of audio-visual interview, an interviewer should keep pace with
proceedings of the interview. It should neither to be too fast or too slow.
The pace of interview should be moderate and should be able to entertain
the audience.
• An audio-visual interviewer should be the perfect master of using voice
to draw attention and emphasize on a topic or transition from of a topic.
He or she should be aware of excellent use of pause, tone, words and
voice modulation in the interview. Interviewer should be full of energy,
but should never try to use jargons to draw undue attention.
• If an interview is being conducted for visual media, an interviewer
should also take care of his clothing and make-up. Background of the
studio or shooting spot should be soothing and there should be good
visual impact.
• In an interview for visual media, facial expression of an interviewer
should be polite and sober. One should smile at appropriate comment
only. Gestures should be gentle and an interviewer should not pose to
distract anyone. Shoulders should not be hunched and interviewer should
sit straight and not lean on one side.
6.3.3 Phase 3: Concluding an Interview

Conclusion is a very important step as it highlights the key points and attract
attention of the audience towards what this interview has given them
altogether. In this phase, an interviewer should clear any doubt that may
occurred in the ongoing talk and have clarification on any topic, that has not
been answered satisfactorily. Interviewer can also make an appeal to the
audience or stress on a social message connected to the topic.
When an interviewer thinks that he or she has finished the talk, one last
question may be asked. ‘Anything else you want to share with us and convey
to our readers/ audience?’ If the interviewer needs photographs of the
interview, he or she should either assign this task to a photographer or click it
him or herself after the end of formal interview conversation.
The interviewee should have contact details of interviewer and vice-versa. In

case of an important issue, if interviewee wants to update any information,
s/he should feel free to connect with the interviewer, so that there remains a
chance of updated interview till the deadline or closing for print of the edition
(In case of Print Media). In case of electronic media, exchange of contact
details of interviewer and interviewee can be manifested in future prospects
of obtaining any updates on the issue.
At last, it is courtesy to thank and convey parting salutation to the

interviewee.
6.3.4 Phase 4: Editing and Presentation

The final product that the audience will get to read, see or hear depends on
this last phase of editing. The final Presentation of an interview depends on 73
Reporting: Types the medium of its dissemination and format of the column (in print media)
and Tools
and the program (in electronic media).
• Let us remember a few points while editing the interview-Heading of the

interview should be precise and representing the most important
revelation in the interview. In case of electronic media the starting has to
be short and apt.
• Make sure that the interview start with a brief introduction of the
interviewee and appropriate description of the subject matter discussed.
• Highlights of interview can be offered as a box item. In case of

electronic media, important points highlighted by the anchor should not
be cut because of repetition. Although too much repetition causes
problem. So make sure highlight doesn’t sound boring.
• Transcription of recorded interview should be perfect and only
grammatical error should be corrected.
• Questions asked in real-time interview and their answers can be re-
arranged to make reading more interesting, smooth and flawless. But, in
this exercise meaning and sense of responses of the interviewee should
remain the same as said in real-time interview. Language of the question
asked may be made more catchy, but it should mean and sense exactly
the same as the question asked in the interview.
• While answering a question, it may happen that an interviewee starts
saying more than the answer of the asked question. If these points are
otherwise relevant and important, then they may be included in the
interview as an answer of a suitable question
• If the interviewee has made any mistakes or hurt sentiments of a
community/country then those parts should be edited. Repetitions or
extra talk should also be eliminated.
• Editor should not edit in such a way that changes or gives twist to what
the interview mean.
• The final interview should seem like a story from start to end. If
necessary the sequence of questions can be changed while editing.
There are 2 types of interviews in electronic media.

1. Live Interview : In live interview, interview gets broadcasted or
telecasted in real-time and there is no space for post-interview editing so
the anchor or the interviewer has to be more careful. By chance they
make any mistake, then they should be able to cover up instantly. The
anchor should be aware of cues given to him. For example start, wrap up,
there is a phone call etc.
2. Recorded or edited interview : In these types of interviews editing can be
done to present interview in a better than actual form. You should take
into consideration following points :
• An interview should start with a briefing of the interview package,
74
which should include introduction of the interviewee and subject Interview: A
Journalistic Tool
matter on which the conversation would take place. This
introduction package should be written in advance and should be
read out by the interviewer through teleprompter. Some experienced
interviewers choose to do this package extempore, but it depends on
his or her personal ability.
• Graphics for elaborating facts, figures, montage and backgrounders
etc should be well prepared in advance.
• An interviewer should follow instructions of program producer,
when camera starts rolling.

1. Explain the fourth phase (editing and presentation) of interview.
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
.....................................................................................................................
6.4 ETHICAL PRACTICES IN INTERVIEW

There are some ethical guidelines that an interviewer should follow while
conducting and presenting an interview. Following these guidelines would
help build the reputation of an interviewer into a more authentic and
dependable person:
• Procedures and schedule of the interview should be well documented and
handed over to the interviewee in hand or by e-mail before actual
commencement of the interview.
• Venue, time and duration should be decided in consultation with the
interviewee. Once decided, the interviewer should stick to it very
seriously.
• Interviewer should be punctual and if decided earlier, s/he should arrange
for a transport to bring interviewee to the venue before time, so that the
interviewee has reasonable time to relax and prepare for interview.
• The interviewee should not feel harassed or interrogated during the
interview. Remember that the interview is a conversation; it should not
be made a confrontation.
• The interviewer should not reveal anything said by interviewee off the
record.
• If the interviewer thinks that any revelation by interviewee can harm
anyone in any way, s/he should confirm with the interviewee by asking,
‘Are you saying this on record?’ or ‘Should I note this point as on
record?’
• The interviewer should not put words in mouth of interviewee. However,
s/he may suggest a better explanation only for later approval. 75
Reporting: Types Activity
and Tools
Conduct an interview of any local sportsperson/writer/artist/politician/social
worker and write it in the format for print media.
6.5 LET US SUM UP

Interview is a format which is covered through a conversation between
interviewer and interviewee. We can sum up this unit with the some
important points. There should be a sound preparation before the interview.
We must check equipment of recording before the interview. Interviewer
should speak less and let interviewee speak more. Interviewer should be
polite, but persistent in asking question. Questions asked should be clear,
precise and to the point. Interviewer should cross-check the data and
information provided by interviewee before preparing the final draft of the
interview. Interview should free from any bias and prejudice.
6.6 FURTHER READING

Gail Sedorkin (2011, 2nd Ed.) Interviewing: A Guide for Journalists and
Writers, Allen & Unwin, Auckland, New Zealand.
Lawrence Grobel (2004) The Art of the Interview: Lessons from a Master of
the Craft, Three Rivers Press, New York.
6.7 KEY WORDS

Interviewer : The Person, who conducts the interview
Interviewee : The Person, who is being interviewed
On the record : Remarks made by an interviewee, which s/he intends to be
disseminated through the interview
Off the record : Remarks made by an interviewee, which s/he does not
intend to be disseminated through the interview. The comment may be
informal, unofficial or confidential, which should not be revealed in public.
Bridge : A transitional statement, which is used for shifting from one topic to
another.
Montage: The technique of selecting, editing and piecing together separate
sections of film to form a continuous whole. This is used in a background of
shooting spot of an interview.
Preconceived Notions: Already formed opinion
6.8 CHECK YOUR PROGRESS: POSSIBLE

ANSWERS
1. Refer to 6.2.2
2. Refer to 6.2.4
1. Refer to 6.3.4
76

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News Room Set-Up

4.1 LEARNING OUTCOMES

4.2 NEWS REPORTING

4.3 TYPES OF NEWS REPORTING

4.3.1 General Reporting

4.3.3 Sports Reporting

4.3.4 Political Reporting

4.3.5 Religious Reporting

4.3.6 Entertainment Reporting

4.3.7 Parliamentary Reporting

4.3.8 Conflict Zone Reporting

4.3.9 Investigative Reporting

4.3.10 Judicial Reporting

4.3.11 Crime and Accident Reporting

4.3.12 Reporting Developmental Issues

4.4 REPORTING FROM GOVERNMENT

4.5 REPORTING FROM NON -GOVERNMENT

Check Your Progress 1

4.6 REPORTING BASED ON NATURE OF ITS

4.6.2 Interpretative and Analytical Reporting

Interpretative reporting has many variants. This is also called featurised

Check Your Progress 2

4.7 PROCESS OF NEWS REPORTING

4.7.1 Identifying Story Ideas

4.7.2 Managing Contacts

4.7.3 Personally Visiting the Location

4.7.4 Taking Bytes and Interviews

4.7.5 Collecting Information from Secondary Sources

4.7.6 Research and Reports

4.7.7 Exploring Library or Archive or Internet

4.7.8 Writing the News Report

4.7.9 Following Up the News Chain

4.8 RIGHT TO INFORMATION (RTI)

Check Your Progress - 3

4.10 LET US SUM UP

4.11 FURTHER READINGS

Jorgen Westertahl, “Objective News Reporting: General Premises”

5.1 LEARNING OUTCOMES

56 After studying this unit, you will be able to:

5.2 WHAT IS RESEARCH?

5.3 IMPORTANCE OF RESEARCH

5.4 TYPES OF RESEARCH

5.4.1 Qualitative Research

5.4.2 Quantitative Research

5.5 NEED OF RESEARCH IN MEDIA INDUSTRY

Since it is an important discipline to study, media research has become

5.5.1 The Need of Media Research

5.5.2 Benefits of Research

a) It provides a certain level of accuracy which cannot be achieved by any

5.5.3 Research and Journalism

Research is used by journalists to develop stories for the subject of lifestyle

Check Your Progress 1

5.5 SCOPE OF RESEARCH IN JOURNALISM

survey or data based news stories in them. Write your observations.

Check Your Progress 2

5.7 LET US SUM UP

5.8 KEY WORDS

5.9 FURTHER READINGS

5.10 CHECK YOUR PROGRESS: POSSIBLE

Information obtained in an interview is regarded as the most authentic and