Week 1: Discussion Questions

Correspondents,
I hope you have enjoyed reading the learning materials for the first week.

I'd like to take this opportunity to talk further about the "concept" of journalism and how it impacts our lives and communities.

In the learning material this week, we defined Journalism as -- a discipline of collecting, verifying, reporting and analyzing information gathered regarding current events, including trends, issues and people. Those who practice journalism are known as journalists. Journalism is a profession that requires serious personal and professional discipline and adherence to a strict ethical code.

Let's think about journalism in a larger context for a moment. It's not just interviewing and writing. There is a deep purpose and strong meaning to our work. In the letter I wrote to you earlier this week, I said, "In no other line of work does an individual have the ability to ask bold questions, seek hard truths, and speak for those who cannot speak for themselves. Only a journalist can seek to highlight injustice, provoke change, inspire community and provide access to information so that people everywhere can live freer, fuller lives. In short, journalists change the world everyday."

Using those ideas as a platform, combined with your own insights and experiences please take some time to think about the following questions and formulate some ideas.

Why do we need journalism?
a. Why does the World need journalism?
b. Why does your community need journalism?
c. Why do you need journalism?

I look forward to a dynamic and thoughtful discussion!

Cristi