I would like to talk more about citizen journalists, which was covered in the earlier presentation by Frederick and Nicole. I think citizen journalism is becoming increasingly popular to many. Such is possible with increasing media platforms, whether social networking ones or various websites that allow people to express their inner thoughts and views of a certain topic and issue. Some though might not consider blogs as being citizen journalists.
Well, to me, I would not consider a blog a platform of citizen journalism because it is not a "proper" platform. It also can be said that it might not seem credible enough for people to look at and take seriously. There are some interesting media platforms that have been used for some time already to gain the interests of netizens. This would include a Singapore-created STOMP, where all kinds of issues can be discussed, from more serious topics such as politics, to more light hearted topics that can relate to normal everyday life issues. I particularly like to see the section of Ugly Commuters, showing the ugly and negligent side of Singaporeans, in particular on public transport like buses and the MRT.
Personally, I think that being a citizen journalist is a good thing because people get to express what is really on their mind. However, there are certain issues that should not be discussed as they are deemed to be sensitive issues and might result in conflict if further pursued. As more people are getting bolder because of more opportunities given to them to express themselves,we all must be mindful that we have to be responsible for what views we put up on the web.
References
1. Lim, W., 2007. We, the Citizen Journalists of Singapore. http://coolinsights.blogspot.com/2007/03/we-citizen-journalists-of-singapore.html (Accessed on 26 May 2011).
2. May, 2011. Ugly Commuters. http://singaporeseen.stomp.com.sg/stomp/sgseen/ugly_commuters/639182/another_woman_does_the_octopus_with_bf_on_mrt_train.html (Accessed on 26 May 2011).
Heya Gwen,
ReplyDeleteGotta agree that the Ugly Commuters section on Stomp is pretty interesting and funny! I agree with the point you made that citizen journalism allows anyone to post basically anything. One of the main issue that arises due to this is that there are no moderators or 'authority' to read and check through these posts or articles before they are posted online. So there can be personal attacks, allegations and 'online hate' generated online due to the lack of an 'authority' to moderate such comments or posts. Therefore, I personally feel that we all need to be responsible citizens first before becoming a citizen journalist.
Anyways, YAY to the rise of citizen journalism! :P
Yes Shasi, I love the idea that citizens like us can post things to express our opinions. It is very entertaining to see many funny characters in Singapore showing their idiotic or ugly side. Well I love to visit STOMP because of these posts!
ReplyDeleteHey Gwen,
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that everyone has to be mindful of what they say. If everyone is allowed to say whatever they want without being sensitive to certain issues, I think we can just say goodbye to our stability. Also STOMP is a great way to allow people to express themselves. It also keeps people on their toes as they have to be mindful of what they say in public or how they behave in public.
xoxo
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