7 Citizen Journalism Websites For Crowdsourced News

The Rise of Citizen Journalism

Citizen journalism represents a potentially transformative force in news dissemination, though its alignment with traditional journalistic standards is often debated. Its core principle aligns closely with the 'open source' model, mirroring the collaborative spirit of the internet.

Essentially, citizen journalism involves the gathering and online publication of news by individuals who are not professional journalists. These platforms offer a venue for interested parties to share observations and perspectives.

The Appeal of Unfiltered Reporting

This form of reporting embodies a largely uncensored expression of free speech. It provides a direct channel for information sharing, bypassing traditional editorial gatekeepers.

The value of citizen journalism has increased due to its capacity to deliver firsthand accounts and even secondary reports through various media outlets. Ordinary individuals can often access and report on events that may be inaccessible to conventional journalists.

Exploring Citizen Journalism Platforms

The following seven social news websites offer a glimpse into the world of news as compiled by citizen journalists. Consider exploring these resources for a week to gain a broader understanding of this evolving landscape.

• These platforms provide alternative perspectives on current events.
• They showcase the power of collective reporting.
• Citizen journalism offers unique insights often unavailable through mainstream media.

The increasing credibility of first-hand accounts and second-hand reporting, facilitated by numerous media channels, underscores the growing importance of this movement.

Now Public: A Citizen Journalism Platform

A multimedia news platform, boasting a readership of 5 million, positions itself among the leading sources for citizen journalism. NowPublic.com reports receiving contributions from approximately 6,000 cities spanning 160 nations worldwide.

Crowdsourced Content

This platform operates on a crowdsourced model, welcoming news reports, opinions, photographic content, and video submissions from a vast network of contributors. The submitted news pieces typically range in length from 250 to 600 words.

Comparison to Examiner.com

Readers may also find Examiner.com of interest. It is a related site that employs a more curated approach to news selection. However, its compensation structure, currently limited to North America, doesn't quite match the features found on NowPublic.com.

While Examiner.com offers a payment system, it is geographically restricted. NowPublic.com maintains a broader accessibility for its contributors and readers.

NowPublic.com distinguishes itself through its extensive global reach and open submission policy, fostering a diverse range of perspectives.

CNN iReport

CNN iReport represents a significant instance of a major news organization leveraging the potential of citizen journalism. According to CNN, the content featured within this section is published without prior editorial review, fact-checking, or screening processes.

Only reports distinguished by an 'CNN iReport' badge have undergone verification by CNN’s editorial staff. Contributors to the platform are recognized with honor badges for their submissions.

Recognition and Visibility

Certain contributors achieve recognition on the "˜Superstar' list, highlighting exceptional contributions. Being integrated within the CNN network ensures substantial viewership for this user-generated news content.

The platform allows for a broad range of perspectives to be shared, though it's important to note the varying levels of editorial oversight. Content without the official badge is presented as submitted.

CNN’s iReport demonstrates a commitment to incorporating diverse voices into its news coverage, while also clearly delineating between verified and unverified reports.

Digital Journal

Opportunities exist to work as a Digital Journalist, earning compensation through a share of advertising revenue generated by your contributions.

Having contributed to the platform personally, I can attest to the consistently high standards of professionalism maintained.

Origins and Focus

Digital Journal originated in Canada and initially focused on delivering technology-related news coverage.

The site allows users to register, contribute news articles, and establish personal blogs.

A Pioneer in Citizen Journalism

Digital Journal stands as one of the earliest platforms dedicated to citizen journalism on the internet.

Community Engagement

Like other community-driven websites, Digital Journal actively fosters interaction and collaboration among its registered members.

The platform prioritizes building a connected community around news and information sharing.

All Voices

Allvoices.com distinguishes itself as a crowdsourced news platform with the unique addition of a cartoon section.

Generally, the site operates similarly to other user-generated content news websites, relying on contributions from its community.

Content Sources

Beyond user submissions, Allvoices.com also incorporates news from RSS feeds, which are identified as Mainstream News.

This integration provides a blend of citizen journalism and conventionally sourced reporting.

The platform effectively combines contributions from individuals with automatically updated content from established news sources.

Newsvine

Newsvine operates as a collaborative platform for news, utilizing crowdsourcing and is currently owned by MSNBC.

It is widely recognized as a leading website for user-generated news content.

Content and Revenue Model

The platform’s news coverage is comprised of both contributions from users – including links and in-depth articles – and mainstream reporting from the Associated Press.

Newsvine implements a revenue-sharing model, compensating contributors with a portion of the generated ad revenue.

Community Features

A leaderboard is maintained on the site, displaying the ranking of contributors based on their popularity within the community.

Upon registration, new users are introduced to the existing community through a dedicated area known as the Greenhouse.

This feature facilitates the welcoming of new members and their integration into the Newsvine ecosystem.

Wikinews: A Platform for Citizen Journalism

Wikinews presents an excellent opportunity for individuals seeking to practice and develop their journalistic abilities. This project, affiliated with Wikipedia, prioritizes the delivery of news reporting that is impartial and objective.

Focus on Neutral Reporting

A core principle of Wikinews is its commitment to neutrality. Articles presenting a biased or opinionated perspective are not permitted.

Content Guidelines and Collaboration

Like all wikis, Wikinews operates under a defined set of content guidelines that contributors must adhere to. These guidelines ensure the quality and consistency of the information presented.

Global Reach and Accessibility

With just an internet connection and a keen interest in current events, anyone can contribute to Wikinews and potentially reach a worldwide readership.

Community Discussion

Beyond news reporting, Wikinews offers a "Water Cooler" forum. This space facilitates discussions on a variety of topics related to news and current affairs.

Wikinews provides a unique environment for aspiring journalists to gain experience and contribute to a collaborative news source.

Demotix

Demotix offers an opportunity for individuals to become published writers by providing a platform to license contributed news stories to a wide network of media outlets – over 200 in total.

Based in the U.K., Demotix functions as both a citizen journalism website and a photo agency.

A Global Community of Journalists

The platform boasts a community of more than 17,000 "street journalists" representing 190 countries worldwide.

The Wikipedia entry dedicated to Demotix provides valuable insights and illustrates the potential impact of amateur journalism.

Consider whether these platforms could empower you to contribute to the news cycle.

Exploring Further

Beyond these seven websites, numerous other crowdsourced news sites feature citizen journalism content.

We encourage you to share the news sources you regularly consult.

For those considering a career in citizen journalism, exploring the Top 5 Online Resources for the Citizen Journalist is highly recommended.

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