Citizen journalismOpen Source PublishingWriting for news sources and blogs

What is journalism?the occupation of reporting, writing, editing, photographing, or broadcasting news.writing that reflects superficial thought and research, a popular slant, and hurried composition, conceived of as exemplifying topical newspaper or popular magazine writing as distinguished from scholarly writing:

What is journalism?Journalism is the first rough draft of history.Journalism is concerned with events, poetry with feelings. Journalism is concerned with the look of the world, poetry with the feel of the world.--Archibald MacLeishJournalism is the ability to meet the challenge of filling space. --Rebecca West

Characteristics of JournalismDate and time sensitiveUsually focused on reporting information(who, what, why, when, how)DisposableUsually short form, (1,200 words or less)Attempts to be balanced, but often has an editorial perspectiveOpinion allowed, but attributed

What is a blog?A blog (a contraction of the term "weblog") is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. Entries are commonly displayed in reverse-chronological order. "Blog" can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog.

Characteristics of a BlogPosts are connected to a particular date and time.Posts are typically shortReflects the perspective of editor / publisherNo rules, but “successful” blogs usually maintain a structure

What is a blog?A blog (a contraction of the term "weblog") is a type of website, usually maintained by an individual with regular entries of commentary, descriptions of events, or other material such as graphics or video. Entries are commonly displayed in reverse-chronological order. "Blog" can also be used as a verb, meaning to maintain or add content to a blog.

JournalismBlogs

Things you would have learned in journalism class if you had paid attention. Offer balanceBe accurateCite your sourcesDon’t plagarizeAvoid conflicts of interestMaintain a healthy skepticism (check facts)Keep good recordsUse the “inverted pyramid”

Inverted Pyramid

Arguments Against Inverted PyramidThe inverted pyramid, its critics say, is the anti-story. It tells the story backward and is at odds with the storytelling tradition that features a beginning, middle, and end. Rather than rewarding a reader with a satisfying conclusion, the pyramid loses steam and peters out, in a sense defying readers to stay awake, let alone read on.--Chip Scanlon via http://www.poynter.org/column.asp?id=52&aid=38693

Knowing Form Is ImportantPress ReleaseThe HeaderInverted PyramidQuotes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASECONTACT:Rev. Jay VoorheesAntioch United Methodist ChurchVoice: (615) 832-6248Cell: (615) 310-6530FAX: (615) 832-8723E-Mail: jay@antiochumc.netww.antiochumc.netAntioch, TN March 6, 2009

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A Quick Introductionto Internet Publishing

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Random Thoughts on Effective Internet PublishingThe blog is not dead, but changingThe rise of Facebook, Twitter, Friendfeed, has changed the way blogs are read and used. Whereas the focus in the early days was on short form, today blogs are reclaiming longer form articles and commentary.

Random Thoughts on Effective Internet PublishingThe focus is less on creating a page and more on creating a feed that is syndicated a variety of ways. Most blogging programs are in fact RSS feed generators, which allow folks to subscribe to your content. More people probably read your feed in some sort of reader than visit your page directly

Random Thoughts on Effective Internet PublishingInternet publishing is by nature a participatory media, so writing should allow space for questions and conversationComments are not an afterthought, but a chance to communicate with your audience. Don’t publish on the internet if you are uncomfortable receiving critique. Success in the Internet space isn’t necessarily about high traffic, but passionate participants.

Random Thoughts on Effective Internet PublishingSuccessful (high traffic) Internet sites are generally focused in a general topic area. Brand development requires placing one’s self in a particular category.Once one develops a reputation, there is more room for commentary on other areas. Readers generally like to have a sense of what to expect when they visit a site.

Random Thoughts on Effective Internet PublishingInternet Publishing requires one to be both writer and editorLearn how to edit on the fly But edit!!!

Random Thoughts on Effective Internet PublishingWrite regularly (daily if possible)

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