SciDev.Net published a Global Science Journalism Report for its 20th anniversary. The survey asked journalists from many countries about their work during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Many respondents said work has become more intense and they now handle more projects. Women were more likely to have several assignments at once. Journalists reported using pre-print research material in their COVID-19 stories and often found stories in peer-reviewed journals, official institutions and from scientists themselves. Several said press releases and newsroom budget cuts can lower reporting standards.
Difficult words
- survey — a set of questions for many people
- respondent — a person who answers questions in a studyrespondents
- pre-print — a research paper shared before formal review
- peer-reviewed — checked by other experts before publication
- press release — an official news statement from an organizationpress releases
- assignment — a piece of work given to a personassignments
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever had to work on several projects at the same time? How did you manage it?
- Which of the sources mentioned (peer-reviewed journals, official institutions, scientists, press releases) do you trust most for news? Why?
- Do you think newsroom budget cuts can change news quality? Why or why not?
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