Assessment of the Use of Eyewitness Reports by Channels Television
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Date
2024
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Media and Communication Currents
Abstract
Ethical concerns surrounding eyewitness materials from citizens often necessitate structured guidelines for integrating them into television productions. This study assessed Channels Television’s use of eyewitness reports in the Eyewitness Report programme. The objectives the study sought to achieve were to identify reasons for Channels Television‘s Eyewitness Report; to examine the mode of sourcing and utilising eyewitness reports; to examine procedures for making eyewitness reports conform to the station’s policies/ethical guidelines and to examine the mode of authenticating eyewitness materials from audience members. This was premised on the gatekeeping theory. The study adopted a qualitative research design, with the key informant interview method to garner insights from News and Current Affairs department personnel involved with the Eyewitness Report programme. A purposive sampling technique was used to select four key informants based on access, availability and knowledge of the subject. Data from the interviews were analysed thematically. The study found reasons behind the use of eyewitness reports to include that of addressing gaps in news coverage. In sourcing and utilising eyewitness reports, the programme actively engaged with the public through various platforms, emphasising credibility and quality checks Furthermore, the study uncovered that meticulous verification processes, follow-up and collaborative decision-making were employed in utilising citizen eyewitness reports. The study concluded that adherence to journalistic guidelines in the context of the Eyewitness Report demonstrates a commendable approach to incorporating citizen voices into the news agenda. The study therefore recommended that Channels Television provide clear guidelines for citizen contributors and communicate the same to the public in addition to its message soliciting eyewitness contributions.
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Shaibu, A.J. & Udende, P. (2024). Assessment of the use of citizen eyewitness reports by Channels Television. Media and Communication Currents, 8 (2).