Understanding Journalism - Paperback

by Lynette Sheridan Burns (Author), Benjamin J. Matthews (Author)

This bestselling, approachable textbook begins from the assertion that the practice of journalism should be driven by a commitment to service the public interest. With this goal in sight, Understanding Journalism explains in a clear and engaging manner both the principles and techniques required to become a successful - and valued - journalist.

This new edition:

• Includes expanded coverage of digital and social media platforms and visual storytelling
• Contains a brand new chapter on data journalism which gives students the knowledge and skills required to navigate, interpret and present data effectively
• Encourages students to confront the everyday decisions involved in journalistic practice through a series of scenarios and discussion questions
• Features a fresh, easy-to-navigate text design to enable easy progress through the book

By presenting the theoretical foundations of the profession alongside practical, step-by-step guidance, this book gives students everything they need to become effective and responsible journalists.

Author Biography

Lynette Sheridan Burns has been a journalist for 25 years first in Sydney, then regional new South Wales, where she won three consecutive journalism awards. In 1989 she moved to the University of Newcastle, Australia, where she established its journalism program in 1992. Today she combines teaching with freelance journalism and award-wining research into problem-based curriculum design.