1st Edition

Professional News Reporting

By Bruce Garrison Copyright 1992

    Because reporting is changing, this volume offers readers a thorough introduction to the rapidly evolving world of gathering information for local news organizations. This easy-to-read text is filled with contemporary examples and solid advice for the beginning reporting student. Designed for students with a foundation in news writing, it provides chapters on such basics as news research, interviewing, and observation skills. It further offers a chapter on the use of personal computers as research and reporting tools. Readers will find useful tips and examples written by award-winning professional journalists that reflect the numerous changes in the art and science of information gathering in the past decade.

    Contents: M. Foley, Foreword. Preface Part I: Introduction to Reporting. Life in the Newsroom. General Assignment and Beat Reporting. Developing and Using Sources. Part II: Reporting Techniques. Background: Researching News Stories. Computer Databases and Document Searching. Interviewing Basics. Interviewing for Television and Radio. Observation Skills. Press Conferences, Hearings, Meetings, Conventions. Part III: Reporting Regulation and Controls. Law Affecting Reporting. News Reporting Ethics. Appendices: Confidential Sources and Anonymity. Public Information Policy. A Writer's Bookshelf From the Orlando Sentinel. Code of Ethics of the Society of Professional Journalists. Code of Broadcast News Ethics of the Radio-Television News Directors Association.

    Biography

    Bruce Garrison

    "...he covers his topic quite well....The text is well-documented and makes liberal use of citations, as well as anecdotes and supporting material provided by media professionals....Garrison has filled a need..."
    Journalism Educator

    "Good journalism is possible only if good journalists are committing it...if you like the idea of getting to the bottom of things, of knowing stuff first and enjoy telling other people about it; if you can stand a little heat when the truth you find and pass along isn't pretty, then read on. The profession might be able to find a spot for you. This book will help you get there."
    Mike Foley
    St. Petersburg Times, from the Foreword

    "This comprehensive yet concise text uses eleven chapters and 300 pages to arm the beginning print and broadcast journalist with the essential tools for covering the news....Even the veteran journalism professor will find some gems and surprises here."
    F. Dennis Hale
    School of Mass Communication, Bowling Green State University