Communication & Technology
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Under the guidance of our faculty, our team embarked on an exploration of the shifting boundaries between traditional journalism and the rapidly growing phenomenon of citizen journalism. We sought to understand the evolving role of gatekeeping—once the exclusive domain of professional editors and newsrooms—in today’s open, participatory media landscape. Our research investigated how ordinary citizens, empowered by smartphones, social media, and instant publishing tools, now play an active role in gathering, producing, and distributing news.
The project examined both the opportunities and challenges this shift presents, focusing on how citizen journalism can amplify diverse voices, fill gaps in mainstream coverage, and create a more inclusive public discourse—while also considering the ethical responsibilities and risks that arise when professional gatekeeping is bypassed. Using real-world incidents, such as the 2021 Durga Puja crisis in Comilla, we analyzed the power of unverified information to spark social unrest and the importance of responsible reporting in the digital era.
PROJECT JUSTIFICATION
The rise of citizen journalism marks one of the most significant changes in modern mass communication. No longer limited to trained journalists, the role of the newsmaker now belongs to anyone with a camera, internet access, and a story to tell. While this democratization of media fosters a richer, more diverse exchange of ideas, it also blurs the lines between credible reporting and misinformation.
In Bangladesh, the stakes are particularly high. The speed at which unverified news spreads on social platforms has, at times, fueled conflict, damaged reputations, and even incited violence—as seen during the Comilla incident. This project is crucial for understanding how citizen journalism can be harnessed as a force for transparency, accountability, and community engagement while respecting the ethical principles of gatekeeping. By studying the intersection of these two worlds, we aim to contribute to a media environment that is both inclusive and responsible.
LEARNINGS & OUTCOMES
Through this project, we gained valuable insights into the transformation of journalism in the digital age:
- Understanding Gatekeeping’s Evolution – We learned how traditional gatekeeping practices are being reshaped, and sometimes bypassed, in a world where news flows instantly and globally.
- Recognizing the Power & Peril of Citizen Journalism – We discovered how citizen journalists can be both catalysts for positive change and unintentional sources of harm when ethical standards are ignored.
- Case-Based Awareness – The Comilla incident served as a sobering example of how misinformation can escalate into national crises, underscoring the importance of verification before publication.
- Appreciating Media Ethics – We deepened our understanding of why ethical guidelines—such as accuracy, impartiality, and accountability—are vital, even in citizen-led reporting.
- Critical Thinking in News Consumption – The project strengthened our ability to critically evaluate news sources, assess credibility, and recognize bias.
- Communication Skills – Collaborating as a research team enhanced our ability to synthesize information, present findings clearly, and engage in thoughtful debate about complex social issues.