Jeff Jarvis

Definition

Jeff Jarvis is a prominent journalist, author, and educator known for his insights into the evolution of journalism in the digital age. He advocates for new forms of media and the importance of audience engagement, shaping the discourse around online journalism's transformation and its role in society. His work emphasizes the shift from traditional journalism to a more participatory, interactive model fueled by technology and social media.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jarvis is a professor at the City University of New York's Graduate School of Journalism, where he teaches students about digital journalism and its impact on media.
2. He authored the book 'What Would Google Do?', which discusses how traditional businesses can adapt to the challenges posed by the digital landscape.
3. Jarvis is known for coining the phrase 'Do not be boring' as a guiding principle for journalists, urging them to engage with their audience meaningfully.
4. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration between journalists and their audience to create richer, more relevant stories that resonate with readers.
5. Through his blog and public speaking, Jarvis has influenced many discussions about how news organizations can innovate and thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Review Questions

• How does Jeff Jarvis define the role of audience engagement in online journalism?
  • Jeff Jarvis believes that audience engagement is central to modern journalism. He argues that journalists should not only report news but also actively involve their audience in the storytelling process. This approach transforms readers from passive consumers into active participants who can provide valuable insights and feedback, ultimately leading to more relevant and compelling journalism.
• In what ways does Jarvis suggest that traditional media can adapt to the challenges presented by digital platforms?
  • Jarvis suggests that traditional media must embrace new technologies and platforms to remain relevant in a rapidly changing environment. This includes adopting principles of transparency, engaging with audiences through social media, and exploring innovative content formats that leverage user-generated contributions. By doing so, media organizations can foster deeper connections with their audiences and stay competitive in the digital age.
• Evaluate Jarvis's impact on the discussion around online journalism and its future, particularly regarding participatory media.
  • Jeff Jarvis has significantly shaped conversations about online journalism by advocating for participatory media where audiences play an active role in content creation and dissemination. His emphasis on collaboration and transparency has prompted many journalists and news organizations to rethink their approaches. By highlighting the potential of technology to enhance storytelling, Jarvis has encouraged a shift towards more interactive and community-driven journalism, influencing both current practices and future developments in the field.

Related terms

Web 2.0: A term used to describe the second generation of the World Wide Web, characterized by the shift towards user-generated content, usability, and interoperability.

Crowdsourcing: The practice of obtaining information or services by soliciting contributions from a large group of people, often through online platforms.

Transparency in Journalism: The concept that journalists should be open about their sources, methods, and potential biases to build trust with their audience.