Assignment Code: MJM-023/ASST/July23

Course Code: MJM-023

Assignment Name: Broadcast & Online Journalism

Year: 2023

Verification Status: Verified by Professor

Q1) Discuss the different characteristics of online journalism with examples.

Ans) Journalism that is conducted online has brought about a transformation in the landscape of news transmission by introducing a number of qualities that set it apart from traditional journalism that is published or broadcast.

Some Key Characteristics of Online Journalism Along with Examples

a) Interactivity:

Journalism that is conducted online encourages communication in both directions between journalists and readers, thereby increasing engagement through the use of comments, surveys, and interactions on social media.

Example: The Guardian's live blogs during major events allow readers to interact by asking questions, providing updates, and engaging in discussions, creating a dynamic and real-time experience.

b) Multimedia Elements:

Online journalism integrates multimedia elements like videos, infographics, interactive maps, and photo galleries to complement written content, offering a more immersive storytelling experience.

Example: BBC's online articles often include multimedia components such as embedded videos, audio clips, and interactive graphics to enhance the audience's understanding of complex stories.

c) Immediate and Continuous Updates:

Online news outlets provide real-time updates and continuous coverage, ensuring audiences have access to the latest information as events unfold.

Example: CNN's breaking news alerts and continuous updates on their website and social media platforms keep audiences informed about evolving stories, providing instant updates.

d) Customization and Personalization:

Online journalism allows readers to personalize their news consumption, enabling customization based on preferences, interests, and location through personalized news feeds or newsletters.

Example: The Washington Post's "My Post" feature allows users to personalize their news feeds, selecting topics and sections they want to follow, delivering a tailored news experience.

e) Audience Engagement and Feedback:

Online platforms facilitate direct audience feedback, enabling journalists to receive immediate reactions, opinions, and corrections from readers.

Example: The New York Times incorporates reader comments and corrections into their articles, allowing for an interactive dialogue between journalists and readers.

f) Global Reach and Accessibility:

Online journalism transcends geographical barriers, providing global access to news content anytime, anywhere, catering to a diverse and international audience.

Example: Al Jazeera English's website delivers news stories in multiple languages, making their content accessible to a global audience, irrespective of geographical boundaries.

g) Data Journalism and Visualization:

Online journalism leverages data visualization techniques to present complex data in an understandable and visually appealing manner, facilitating a deeper understanding of information.

Example: The Financial Times uses interactive charts and infographics to break down economic data, allowing readers to explore and interpret the information at their own pace.

h) Citizen Journalism and User-Generated Content:

Online platforms empower citizens to contribute news content, photos, and videos, enabling diverse perspectives and firsthand accounts.

Example: During major events or crises, platforms like Twitter become hubs for citizen journalists, providing real-time updates and on-the-ground perspectives.

i) Metrics and Analytics:

Online journalism enables the tracking of metrics and analytics to measure user engagement, popular content, and audience demographics.

Example: News organizations use tools like Google Analytics to assess the performance of their digital content, refining strategies based on data-driven insights.

j) Perpetual Archives:

Online articles are typically archived and easily accessible, allowing users to revisit or share content long after its initial publication.

Example: Online news archives provide a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and the general public to access past news articles and track the evolution of stories over time.

Q2) Describe the different categories of presenters in radio.

Ans) In radio broadcasting, presenters play a pivotal role in engaging audiences, delivering content, and shaping the overall listening experience. Presenters come in various styles and personalities, each catering to different audience preferences. Here are different categories of presenters in radio:

a) The Host or DJ:

1) Characteristics: The primary face of the radio station, hosting shows and presenting music, news, or talk segments.

2) Role: They set the tone for the program, interact with listeners, introduce music tracks, and often conduct interviews or discussions.

3) Example: Morning show hosts like Howard Stern or Ryan Seacrest, known for their engaging banter and diverse content mix.

b) The Music Specialist:

1) Characteristics: Experts in specific music genres or eras, often known as music programmers or curators.

2) Role: They specialize in selecting and presenting music playlists, providing insights into the artists, history, and trends within a particular music genre.

3) Example: Jazz aficionados like Marian McPartland or classic rock specialists like Bob Stroud, celebrated for their deep knowledge and passion for music.

c) The News Anchor:

1) Characteristics: Seasoned journalists or reporters delivering news updates and current affairs segments.

2) Role: They present news bulletins, provide analysis, and conduct interviews on pressing issues, maintaining objectivity and credibility.

3) Example: Renowned news anchors like Diane Sawyer or Brian Williams, recognized for their authoritative delivery and journalistic integrity.

d) The Talk Show Host:

1) Characteristics: Conversationalists leading discussions on various topics, often in interview-style formats.

2) Role: They facilitate dialogue, invite guests, and engage listeners in thought-provoking conversations on subjects like politics, lifestyle, or entertainment.

3) Example: Oprah Winfrey or Terry Gross, revered for their ability to conduct in-depth interviews and delve into diverse topics.

e) The Voice-over Artist:

1) Characteristics: Talented professionals specializing in voice acting, often lending their voices for commercials, station IDs, or promotions.

2) Role: They provide narration, advertisement voice-overs, and station identification, adding a polished and engaging touch to radio productions.

3) Example: Don LaFontaine or Nancy Cartwright, renowned for their distinct and versatile vocal talents.

f) The Comedian or Entertainer:

1) Characteristics: Personalities known for their humour, wit, and entertainment value, hosting comedy or variety shows.

2) Role: They deliver comedic content, sketches, or improv, aiming to entertain and lighten the mood of listeners.

3) Example: Comedic hosts like Jimmy Fallon or Ellen DeGeneres, celebrated for their comedic timing and entertaining personas.

g) The Sports Presenter:

1) Characteristics: Sports enthusiasts or former athletes covering sports news, matches, and analysis.

2) Role: They provide live commentary, post-match analysis, and updates on sporting events, catering to sports-loving audiences.

3) Example: Sportscasters like Jim Nantz or Bob Costas, respected for their extensive sports knowledge and engaging commentary.

h) The Community or Local Presenter:

1) Characteristics: Personalities deeply connected to the local community, hosting programs highlighting local news, events, and interests.

2) Role: They promote local talent, community events, and issues relevant to the area, fostering a sense of community among listeners.

3) Example: Local radio hosts like Tom Joyner or Casey Kasem, revered for their connection to their local audience and communities.

Q3) Write a script for a television news package of 90 seconds duration on any news story of your choice.

Ans) The story considered here is about the Ram mandir in Ayodhya.

[INTRO VISUAL: Aerial view of Ayodhya, with the Ram Janmabhoomi complex in focus. The skyline of the city shows a mix of ancient and modern structures.]

ANCHOR:

"Good evening. Our top story tonight takes us to Ayodhya, where a momentous event has unfolded. After decades of legal and social debates, the Ram Janmabhoomi complex witnesses a historic day with the inauguration of the Ram Mandir."

[VISUAL: Footage of the Ram Mandir complex, bustling with devotees and adorned with floral decorations.]

REPORTER (Voiceover):

"Today marks a significant milestone in India's history as Ayodhya witnesses the long-awaited foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Ram Mandir. The event, attended by key dignitaries and spiritual leaders, marks a turning point in the socio-cultural fabric of the nation."

[VISUAL: Footage of devotees gathering at the site, performing rituals, and offering prayers.]

REPORTER (Voiceover):

"The atmosphere here is filled with devotion and reverence, as devotees from across the country have converged to witness this historic event. The ceremonious rituals and Vedic chants resonate in the air, signifying the spiritual importance attached to this occasion."

[VISUAL: A montage of people expressing their emotions - joy, tears, and a sense of fulfilment.]

REPORTER (Voiceover):

"The sentiments of millions find expression in tears of joy and heartfelt prayers. For many, this day is not just about the construction of a physical structure but the fulfilment of a centuries-old aspiration, a symbol of faith, unity, and cultural heritage."

[VISUAL: Aerial view showing the grandeur of the temple complex and the layout of the construction site.]

REPORTER (Voiceover):

"The Ram Mandir, envisioned as a magnificent architectural marvel, is set to stand as a symbol of India's rich heritage and spiritual ethos. The temple design, a blend of traditional and modern architecture, embodies the grandeur of the kingdom of Lord Ram."

[VISUAL: Architectural renderings and sketches of the proposed temple design.]

REPORTER (Voiceover):

"Architectural renderings portray a stunning structure adorned with intricate carvings and majestic domes. The temple, to be constructed using ancient techniques and modern technology, is expected to attract pilgrims and tourists from around the world."

[VISUAL: Interviews with key dignitaries, spiritual leaders, and local residents expressing their views.]

REPORTER (Voiceover):

"The event witnesses the presence of eminent personalities, political leaders, and spiritual gurus, all lauding this historic moment. Their messages echo unity, peace, and the spirit of communal harmony."

[VISUAL: A moment of silence as the stone-laying ceremony commences.]

REPORTER (Voiceover):

"As the auspicious ceremony begins with the laying of the foundation stone, the nation pauses in anticipation, marking a new chapter in the history of Ayodhya and the nation at large."

[VISUAL: Footage of the foundation stone-laying ceremony, with religious rituals and dignitaries participating.]

ANCHOR:

"As the sun sets on this historic day, the Ram Mandir stands as a symbol of hope, unity, and cultural richness, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of our nation. Stay tuned for more updates on this landmark event. Back to the studio."

[VISUAL: Return to the news studio with the anchor.]

ANCHOR:

"That's all for now. Thank you for joining us. Good night."

[FADE OUT.]

Q4) Explain the pre-production stage for a television documentary production.

Ans) The pre-production stage of a television documentary is a crucial phase that lays the groundwork for the entire production process. It involves meticulous planning, research, and logistical arrangements to ensure a successful execution. Here's an overview of the key aspects of pre-production:

a) Idea Generation and Concept Development:

1) Research and Brainstorming: The process begins with brainstorming sessions to generate ideas and concepts for the documentary. Research is conducted to explore potential topics, themes, and narratives.

2) Pitching and Concept Approval: Once a compelling concept is developed, it's pitched to stakeholders, broadcasters, or production companies for approval and funding.

b) Scriptwriting and Storyboarding:

1) Script Development: A script is crafted, outlining the narrative structure, content flow, key points, and interview questions. The script serves as a blueprint for the documentary.

2) Storyboard Creation: Visual elements, shot compositions, and sequences are mapped out through storyboarding, aiding in visualizing the documentary's progression.

c) Budgeting and Scheduling:

1) Budget Allocation: Determining the project's financial requirements, including equipment, crew, travel, permits, and post-production costs.

2) Scheduling: Creating a detailed production schedule outlining shooting dates, locations, interviews, and other logistical aspects.

d) Casting and Location Scouting:

1) Casting Interviews or Subjects: Identifying and reaching out to potential interviewees, contributors, or experts who will feature in the documentary.

2) Location Scouting: Researching and scouting suitable filming locations, ensuring they align with the documentary's theme and requirements.

e) Crew Recruitment and Equipment Arrangements:

1) Hiring Crew: Recruiting the necessary production crew, including directors, cinematographers, sound engineers, and production assistants.

2) Equipment Acquisition: Arranging and testing filming equipment, cameras, lighting, sound gear, and other technical tools required for shooting.

f) Legal and Permissions:

1) Legal Clearances: Obtaining necessary legal permissions, contracts, and releases for filming at specific locations, using copyrighted materials, and obtaining rights for music or archival footage.

2) Insurance: Securing production insurance for the crew, equipment, and liability coverage during filming.

g) Logistics Planning:

1) Travel Arrangements: Organizing transportation and accommodations for the crew during filming at various locations.

2) Resource Management: Planning for essential resources, such as food, water, and medical supplies, especially for shoots in remote areas.

h) Pre-Interviews and Research:

1) Pre-Interviews: Conducting preliminary interviews or meetings with potential contributors to gather background information and refine interview questions.

2) In-depth Research: Furthering research on the chosen subject, gathering historical context, statistics, and additional information to enrich the documentary's content.

i) Production Briefings and Rehearsals:

1) Production Meetings: Conducting briefings with the crew, discussing roles, responsibilities, and ensuring everyone is aligned with the project's objectives.

2) Rehearsals (if applicable): Rehearsing specific sequences or interviews to ensure smooth execution during filming.

The pre-production stage serves as the backbone of a television documentary, setting the tone, vision, and roadmap for the entire production. A thorough and well-executed pre-production phase lays the groundwork for a successful and compelling documentary.

Q5) Explain any two of the following terms:

Q5 i) Hyper-textuality

Ans) Hypertextuality is a foundational concept in the realm of digital communication and information organization. It refers to the interconnectedness of information within digital documents or systems, allowing non-linear navigation and linking between different pieces of content. This concept fundamentally changed the way information is accessed, shared, and processed, especially in the context of the internet and digital documents.

At its core, hypertextuality enables users to move beyond the traditional linear reading or viewing experience. Instead of following a predetermined sequence, hypertextual systems offer multiple paths for exploration. It allows users to navigate through interconnected nodes of information, often represented as hyperlinks, which connect one piece of content to another.

The concept was famously introduced by computer scientist Ted Nelson in the 1960s, envisioning a network of linked documents called "hypertext." This laid the groundwork for the creation of the World Wide Web, where hyperlinks enable users to jump from one webpage to another, following their interests or information needs. For instance, a single webpage might contain embedded links that lead to related articles, references, or multimedia content, offering a rich and interconnected experience.

Hypertextuality promotes a non-linear, associative way of information access, fostering a web of connections between diverse topics, ideas, and resources. It empowers users to navigate information based on their interests, enabling them to explore content in a manner that suits their preferences rather than following a predetermined sequence.

In summary, hypertextuality revolutionized information dissemination and retrieval by introducing the concept of interconnectedness and non-linearity, enabling users to navigate a vast web of information seamlessly and explore diverse content through hyperlinks, fundamentally shaping how we interact with digital information.

Q5 ii) Content Management System (CMS)

Ans) A Content Management System (CMS) is a software application that enables the creation, modification, organization, and publication of digital content on websites or other digital platforms. It provides a user-friendly interface that allows individuals, even without extensive technical knowledge, to manage and control the content of their websites efficiently. CMS platforms have become integral tools for businesses, organizations, and individuals seeking to establish and maintain an online presence.

Core Components of a CMS

a) Content Creation and Editing: CMS platforms offer tools for creating, editing, and formatting various types of content such as text, images, videos, and documents within a unified environment.

b) Content Organization: They facilitate the organization and categorization of content, often using taxonomies, tags, or folders, making it easier to locate and manage different pieces of information.

c) Workflow Management: CMS systems often include workflow functionalities that enable collaborative content creation, review, approval, and publishing processes among multiple users or teams.

d) User Management: They provide user authentication and access control features, allowing administrators to assign roles and permissions to different users based on their responsibilities.

e) Template and Design Management: CMS platforms often offer templates or themes that users can customize to create visually appealing websites without extensive coding knowledge.

f) Publishing and Version Control: They allow content to be published, scheduled for publication, or archived. Version control features help track changes and revisions made to content.

Examples of CMS Platforms:

a) WordPress: Widely used for blogs, websites, and e-commerce due to its user-friendly interface and extensive plugin ecosystem.

b) Drupal: Known for its flexibility and scalability, suitable for building complex websites requiring customizations.

c) Joomla: Offers a balance between ease of use and extensibility, suitable for various types of websites.