Media School hosts international journalists, discusses investigative journalism and democracy
On June 12, The Media School welcomed nine visiting journalists from the Edward R. Murrow Program to discuss issues related to democracy, press, ethical journalism, and emerging trends in the journalistic landscape.
They were invited to the United States under the auspices of the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program, an initiative arranged by Mississippi Consortium for International Development.
The guests – who came from around the world including countries such as Brazil, Ghana, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe – were accompanied by interpreters to help them engage in efficient conversations without language barriers.
After initial greetings and a guided tour of The Media School, visitors joined the first session on “Smart Reporting: Data Tools for Investigative Journalism,” by Craig Lyons, managing editor of Arnolt Center for Investigative Journalism.
Lyons introduced the guests to new software tools for investigative reporting, graphic representation of data, and transcription devices. There were also discussions regarding the use of artificial intelligence prompt tools in creating stories that adhere to search engine optimization standards and ethical considerations.
The second session, titled “Opening Doors and Records: Public Transparency in Indiana and Beyond,” was conducted by associate professor Gerry Lanosga.
Participants discussed topics of transparency in politics, law, and governmental policies, followed by a brainstorming session about effective methods for public access to confidential data, ethical sourcing of information, and navigating the contemporary sociopolitical climate as emerging journalists.