Bits, Bites, and Words

In one minute, tell me today's top news story. I'll wait while you go look.

Where did you find the top story? How quick were you able to find it? I am willing to guess that the information included either a photo, video, or audio component. I am also sure that we could find that same news story on another platform equally as fast.

Convergence Journalism

There is no denying technology has changed the speed in which we receive information. It's as simple as asking the smart speaker next to your night stand today's weather, or picking up a smartphone to find watch a live stream. Not only is the information provided when and how we want it, it uses all the tools available to deliver it (Kolodzy, 2012).

Today's television news often gives bits of a story and refers to their website for the rest of it. That story most likely has extra video bites or photos. It's likely to be tweeted and posted on Facebook. Tomorrow it may be available in a podcast. Doing so allows journalists to reach all audiences where they are at.

Aside from television, each platform used allows you to choose to be part of the conversation. Thanks to technology, convergence journalism is here. Locally and globally it brings more voices into the conversation.

References

Kolodzy, J. (2012). Practicing Convergence Journalism. Taylor & Francis. https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9781136222825