There are a number of differences between print journalism and television journalism. While neither could be considered the better, certain differences appeal to certain individuals. For instance, someone who enjoys being in the spotlight may gravitate toward television journalism more. Below are the most common differences between television journalism and print journalism. By understanding these differences, individuals can choose which suits them the best.
Style and Structure of Stories – Journalism Sensationalism
With print journalism, stories are researched and fact-checked in much the same way as they are with television journalism. However, what the public gets with the two is vastly different. Stories printed in newspapers or magazines have been edited for spelling errors, grammatical errors and clarity of point. By the time the story gets published, the wording is rich and easy to understand. Print journalists are able to be more descriptive and elegant with their wording than television journalists.
The stories that are reported on television are mostly checked for accuracy. The journalists speak in more conversational language that is more to the point. With less time and often no time to edit other than for facts, television journalism is often just like normal conversation – with an anchor asking questions and a correspondent answering from memory or quickly scrawled notes.
Differences in Impact on the Public – Journalism Activities Explained
Unless a newspaper is a fairly large one, such as the New York Times, it stands to reason that broadcast media reaches a larger audience. Stories can reach a larger percentage of the population, as stories from smaller stations are ran on larger stations depending upon interest.
However, research shows that print journalism often sticks with the readers more easily than television journalism. The theory is that while individuals may turn on the television to the news, it is easy to ignore it. However, an individual who purposely reads an article in the newspaper will retain the information better.
Another difference is that with television journalism, the public often gets a better view of a story – pictures and interviews with persons directly related to the case. They also get to hear the news rather than read it, and often receive more images that are related to a particular story.
While there are serious differences, the point is still the same – to deliver factual and fair news to the public. With this in mind, the choice of whether to focus on a career in print or television journalism depends upon an individual’s preference.
Kristi Carter - Kristi is an experienced journalist, internet marketing consultant and professional copywriter with over 11 years of professional writing ...
