Understanding Journalism

This 3rd edition of the classic text on understanding, thinking about and practising journalism hones the argument that, amid the chatter, reflective and ethical journalists are the upholders of journalism’s purpose in a rapidly transforming media environment. Understanding Journalism brings theory and practice together to provide a richly informed, scholarly, accessible, engaging and practical step-by-step guide to the decision making process that is public interest journalism. All journalism students and journalists should read and learn from it. (Bonita Mason)

Understanding Journalism is an injunction and a guide to students, journalists and others to think about journalism - what is is, how it is done, and what it means - at time when it has never been more important to do so. (Michael Bromley)

Sheridan Burns was among the first to apply a genuine 'reflective practice' approach to journalism education - teaching students how to report effectively within ethical boundaries. The latest edition of Understanding Journalism - co-written with Benjamin J Matthews - retains that mindful approach to the enterprise and applies it to a host of fresh situations -  including social media, false news and citizen journalism
- in the digital and geopolitical context. The authors reaffirm the importance of considered and research-based journalism practice in a troubled and divided world. This book continues to set the standard as the truly international primer for journalists. (Mark Pearson)

This bestselling, approachable textbook begins from the assertion that the practice of journalism should be driven by a commitment to service the public interest. With this goal in sight, Understanding Journalism explains in a clear and engaging manner both the principles and techniques required to become a successful – and valued – journalist.

This new edition:

• Includes expanded coverage of digital and social media platforms and visual storytelling
• Contains a brand new chapter on data journalism which gives students the knowledge and skills required to navigate, interpret and present data effectively
• Encourages students to confront the everyday decisions involved in journalistic practice through a series of scenarios and discussion questions
• Features a fresh, easy-to-navigate text design to enable easy progress through the book

By presenting the theoretical foundations of the profession alongside practical, step-by-step guidance, this book gives students everything they need to become effective and responsible journalists.