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Mixed methods approaches in empirical social research combine quantitative and qualitative research methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding of a research problem. Here are some ways mixed methods approaches can be used in empirical social research:
Convergence design: In this approach, quantitative and qualitative data are collected and analyzed separately, and the results are merged at the end. For example, a quantitative survey could be conducted to identify general trends and patterns in a particular social phenomenon. Qualitative interviews could then be conducted to gain deeper insights and contextual information. Finally, the results of both methods are combined to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.
Explanation design: A qualitative method is used here to explain or deepen the results of a quantitative investigation. For example, quantitative data might show that there is a significant association between two variables, but the exact mechanisms or reasons for this association remain unclear. In this case, a qualitative method, such as focus groups or one-on-one interviews, can be used to get more in-depth explanations and improve understanding of the underlying processes.
Exploration Design: Here, a qualitative method is used to explore a specific phenomenon or research area, followed by a quantitative method to generalize the results. The qualitative phase can be used to generate hypotheses, identify constructs, or gather contextual information. The quantitative phase can then be used to apply the knowledge gained in the qualitative phase to a larger sample and to make statistically significant statements about the population.
Triangulation design: This approach involves the simultaneous use of quantitative and qualitative methods to improve the validity of the results. The different methods are applied independently and the results are compared to identify matches or discrepancies. This approach can help identify potential biases or limitations of a single method and increase the reliability and validity of the results.
These examples illustrate how mixed methods approaches can be used in empirical social research. Selecting the appropriate approach depends on the specific research question, the resources available, and the goals of the study.
Embargoment in the journalistic context refers to an agreement between a news source (e.g. a government agency, company or individual) and the media (newspapers, television, radio or online news) that authorizes the publication of information or regulates messages at a specific time. During the embargo period, the media is not allowed to publish or disseminate the information or news received until the specified time has expired.
Blocking periods are agreed for various reasons:
Coordination: In some cases, a blackout period is agreed to ensure that all media outlets report on an important news story at the same time. This allows the news source to coordinate publication and ensure that no information is leaked prematurely.
Research time: Members of the media can use the embargo period to gather more information, check facts and conduct background research before publishing a story.
Exclusivity: News sources may provide media outlets with exclusive insights or interviews provided they do not publish the information until the embargo period expires.
Fairness: embargo periods are intended to ensure that media companies report fairly and responsibly, rather than publishing information prematurely or with errors.
Control: News sources have the ability to control the publication of information and ensure that it is presented in a specific context.
Sensitivity: In cases where information is sensitive or confidential, an embargo period can help prevent it from becoming public prematurely.
It is important to note that embargo periods are typically based on trust and agreement between news sources and the media. Failure to comply with an embargo period may result in legal consequences or loss of trust from the news source. Journalists and media organizations therefore typically strive to respect and adhere to embargo periods in order to maintain their credibility and access to information.
A newsdesk is a central facility or department in a news organisation that coordinates, organises and supervises news reporting and publishing. The newsdesk plays a critical role in the newsroom and is often the heart of news production. Here are some of the main functions and tasks of a newsdesk:
News gathering: the newsdesk is responsible for the ongoing gathering of news sources. This may include tracking news outlets, social media, official press releases, interviews and other sources of information:
News selection: Based on the information gathered, the newsdesk decides which news items are relevant for reporting and which should be published in the organisation's media channels.
Planning and assignment: The newsdesk plans which stories or reports should appear in upcoming newscasts, articles or programmes. It assigns journalists and reporters to the respective tasks.
Coordination: The newsdesk coordinates the work of reporters, editors, cameramen and other staff to ensure that news is produced and published in a timely and efficient manner.
Editing: Journalists submit their reports to the newsdesk, which checks and edits them to ensure they meet journalistic standards and are accurate.
Breaking news: The newsdesk is particularly important when it comes to breaking news. It ensures that such news is handled and published immediately in order to inform the public quickly.
Communication: The newsdesk often acts as an interface between newsrooms and other departments within the news organisation, including the technology department, the graphics department and the online editorial department.
News distribution: The newsdesk is responsible for distributing news content to various platforms, including television, radio, print, online websites and social media.
Crisis management: In the event of an emergency or crisis, the newsdesk monitors the news situation and ensures that relevant information is communicated in real time.
Research and background information: The newsdesk may also be responsible for providing background information and research to journalists to enable informed reporting.
The newsdesk may also be responsible for providing background information and research to journalists to enable informed reporting.
The newsdesk is a key player in the news industry and plays a crucial role in organising, prioritising and publishing news. The effective functioning of the newsdesk is critical to providing high quality and timely news to the public.
A fact check, also referred to as "fact-checking", is a journalistic process in which information, claims or statements are checked for their correctness and accuracy. The aim of fact-checking is to ensure that information published in news articles, reports, interviews or other media is accurate and based on reliable sources and evidence.
Here are some important aspects of the fact check:
Research: Fact checkers conduct intensive research to verify facts and information. This may include searching databases, archives, scientific studies, government documents and other reliable sources.
Verification: Fact checkers seek to confirm the accuracy of claims by finding evidence and proof. They may use original documents, expert opinions or official statements to verify accuracy.
Source evaluation: Fact checkers also evaluate the credibility of the sources from which the information comes. Trustworthy, independent and well-established sources usually carry more weight.
Context: The fact checker takes into account the context in which a claim was made. Sometimes a statement can be taken out of context or distorted to promote a particular agenda.
Transparency: In reputable fact checks, the methodology and basis for the check is explained in detail. This allows readers to evaluate and comprehend the fact check themselves.
Correction: If a statement is found to be inaccurate or erroneous, the results of the fact check are often published to inform readers of the correction.
Fact checks are an important part of journalism, especially in an age when false information, rumours and misinformation are easily spread, particularly on social media. Fact checks help maintain the integrity and trustworthiness of news sources and protect the public from misleading information. Organisations that specialise in fact-checking work independently and are committed to objective, accurate and factual reporting.
Local media is an important channel for raising public awareness of local events, businesses, organizations or happenings. Here are some ways to use local media for PR purposes:
Press Releases: Write professional press releases to publicize relevant local news or events. Make sure your press release contains interesting and relevant information that will matter to local media readers:
Local news contacts: cultivate good relationships with local media journalists and editors. Research who is responsible for specific topics or sections and contact them directly with relevant information or press releases.
Local events: Use local events to increase your presence in the media. Actively participate in events in your community and let local media know about them. For example, this could mean sponsoring, organizing an expert panel, or hosting a charity run.
Local expert position: Offer yourself as an expert on relevant topics of interest to the local community. Journalists are often looking for experts who can give interviews or write guest articles. By providing quality content, you can build your credibility and reputation as an expert in your community.
Local Stories: Identify local stories that could pique the interest of local media. These could be success stories of people in your community, unique initiatives or innovative projects. Share these stories with the media and, if appropriate, offer to provide interviews or background information.
Social media and online presence: use social media and your online presence to target local media. Share press releases, articles or announcements through your social media channels, linking to local media outlets. This can help increase your reach and improve your chances of getting media coverage.
It's important to note that local media relies heavily on relevant and interesting information. Make sure your PR efforts add value and are tailored to the interests of the local community.