J-Source

A look at investigative journalism

The robo-calls scoop highlights the value of investigative journalism in today’s newsrooms. Technology has brought new dilemmas, like the ethics of hacker-assisted reporting. An online discussion of the law and ethics of investigative journalism raises some interesting debates. But the basics remain the same. Solid investigative reporting is equal parts looking under rocks and looking…

The robo-calls scoop highlights the value of investigative journalism in today’s newsrooms. Technology has brought new dilemmas, like the ethics of hacker-assisted reporting. An online discussion of the law and ethics of investigative journalism raises some interesting debates. But the basics remain the same. Solid investigative reporting is equal parts looking under rocks and looking at the stories staring us in the face, according to this interview with Julian Sher, a JournalismNet founder. Former Yukon News editor Richard Mostyn argues we should stop calling it investigative journalism, and simply call it good journalism – the way it’s supposed to be done. The Canadian Centre for Investigative Reporting is doing its part to support investigative work, such as this report on substandard shelters for Haiti. Other ideas for promoting more investigation have cropped up in recent years, some more successful than others. This video interview with the Toronto Star’s investigative editor suggests the simplest solution is to simply get out and do it. Visit our Investigative Journalism J-Topic to read more about this topic.     

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Patricia W. Elliott is a magazine journalist and assistant professor at the School of Journalism, University of Regina. You can visit her at patriciaelliott.ca.