Virtual Journalism Summit

Virtual Journalist Wagner James Au, author of The Making of Second Life, spoke today at CUB Auditorium as part of the inaugural Virtual Journalism Summit at Washington State University.

Detailing his use of avatars, Au explained that he uses his own avatar, named Hamlet Au, to report news in Second Life; some of which has been syndicated by various media outlets (i.e. The Washington Post).

Au explained his coverage of a number of strange stories in SL; a widow developed an avatar modeled to resemble her late husband on the second anniversary of his death, another woman changed her avatar’s complexion from Caucasian to African American and noted discrimination because of it, etc.

Providing several tips for students interested in virtual journalism, Au explained his incorporation of screen shots, chat histories, and audio/video to make a more compelling story and be a more effective journalist. Warning the audience of the real-world journalistic laws that apply in the virtual world as well, Au encouraged writers to identify themselves as reporters and seek appropriate approval to quote and release photos.

Al Jazeera and International News on Livestation

Available on Livestation

I previewed a number of the channels but thought that Russian Today, Al Jazeera (English), and BBC World News were worth mentioning. I thought that Russian Today resembled most stereotypical American news shows; the news is primarily focused on events occuring within Russia’s borders, not global news.Following the same concept, American news is also framed for its audience in the same manner. Americans receive their daily fill of international news through a regrettably one-sided and limited filter, the overwhelming majority of the news media Americans are exposed to is regarding domestic North American issues.

I thought that BBC World News and Al Jazeera had a more global format for delivering news. Both had local news, but mostly dedicated the largest segments of their broadcasts to foreign news. “We The People,” a segment on the increasing water crisis in America aired by Al Jazeera illustrates an even balance between domestic and international news.

I was shocked by Al Jazeera – it was nothing like what I expected the channel to be. I think the Internet could prove to be an incredibly beneficial tool for Al Jazeera News in breaking into the North American market. Many Americans have internet access and are becoming increasingly reliant on it for news media. As consumers grow too suspicious of worn-out biases evident in traditional American news (Fox News), they may turn to online media for alternative resources.

I wish Al Jazeera was permitted to broadcast in the US. I think that the channel would help provide a much needed balance in the marketplace that could spark a new look at typical American news while increasing awareness of and drawing greater attention to international affairs.

I think that Al Jazeera has without doubt stuck to its code of ethics. The broadcast I viewed seemed to respectively cover every term listed. I would like the Internet to serve as the necessary platform for this network to take off and gain acceptance in the North American market.