Check out our short guide setting out how to make the best use of the free training resources on Media Helping Media.
Media Helping Media (MHM)
Preserving and promoting the core principles of accurate, impartial, public-service journalism by offering free training materials in multiple formats to be downloaded, adapted, and used.
Essential Journalism Values
CHECK OUT MORE THAN 250 ARTICLES ON JOURNALISM BEST PRACTICEFree Journalism Learning Materials
DOWNLOAD AND ADAPT MORE THAN 140 ASSORTED TRAINING RESOURCESSpotting a news story
How does a journalist know when they are on the right track? What are the telltale signs that distinguish fact from fiction?
The power of quotes in journalism
Quotes can define an era, a person, or a story. Used thoughtfully, they transform reporting from factual to memorable, from clear to compelling.
The power of words
Journalists need to understand the power of using the right words when writing news stories
Impartiality in journalism
For journalists, being impartial means presenting information without demonstrating favouritism towards any specific viewpoint or party.
Photojournalism and ethics
The following are commonly accepted ethical guidelines for photojournalists adopted by most mainstream media.
Why editorial ethics are important
The Media Helping Media ethics section is designed to help journalists navigate some of the challenges they might face as they go about their work.
Fake news and trust chains
"Fake news" encompasses two distinct concepts: fabricated stories masquerading as truth and the dismissal of legitimate news as false.
The essential role of journalism
Journalism isn’t just reporting, it’s witnessing history, challenging power, amplifying unheard voices, and making sense of a chaotic world.
Brand values in news
All news organisations have values. They are the biggest part of the organisation’s brand. Journalists need to uphold these brand values at all times.
The investigative journalism mindset
The investigative mindset is responsible for solving more information mysteries than probably any other factor. If you haven’t started writing down your best strategies now might be the time to start.
The investigative journalism dossier
Discipline, order and a well thought out plan are essential for successful investigative journalism.
Why would anyone want to talk to a journalist?
An investigative journalist has to encourage people to share information that they had previously withheld.
Hiring and developing staff
Hiring the right journalists is one of the most critical decisions senior newsroom managers make. The following guide is designed to help editors choose the right candidates.
Setting up community radio
Launching a community radio station is about more than just broadcasting news, it’s about creating a hub for local voices, sharing vital information, and building community spirit.
When a ‘big story’ breaks
Big stories happen out of the blue. And when they do newsrooms have to spring into action immediately.
Convergence: transforming news production
Introducing a converged news operation is rarely easy. Those trying to introduce changes in workflows, roles and responsibilities are often met with resistance.
Establishing a market differential
This article sets out the process for producing original, in-depth, issue-led journalism designed to inform the public debate.
Female representation in news leadership and coverage
Is your news organisation and its output male dominated? Are women fairly represented in newsroom leadership roles and the stories covered?
Accuracy – scenario
In this scenario a reporter witnesses a mass walkout of workers from a factory affected by industrial action. The company claims it's business as usual; the union says all workers have downed tools.
Photo journalism – scenario
In this scenario a reporter tells the newsdesk that she has a strong news story only to find that the facts were not as they seemed.
Journalistic ethics – scenario
In this scenario a reporter feels ethically compromised after accepting hospitality from a developer who subsequently pressured them for favourable coverage.
Wanted, your media know-how
Have you got any journalism expertise that you are willing to share with others? If so, please get in touch.
Tool: Learning management systems
Learning Management Systems (LMS) are increasingly becoming the digital backbone of all media training, in particular Training of Trainers (ToT) courses.
International media training
Those invited to help the media overseas need to ensure that the training they offer is continually refreshed in order to stay relevant and useful.
Tool: Optimism index for media trainers
The 'Optimism Index' is a tool designed for trainers of group journalism sessions to gauge and ultimately improve the participants' hope for the future.
Tool: MHM Story Builder
The Media Helping Media’s Story Builder is a simple tool created to help those who are new to journalism write informative news articles.
Tool: News Meeting Manager
This tool is designed to help editors prepare for and run an effective news meeting that results in the production of original and informative journalism.
Media Helping Media has no political or financial backers – it’s just professional journalists sharing their knowlege. Find out more.
Media Helping Media is proud to be hosted by the Fojo Media Institute.
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The content on Media Helping Media (MHM) is released via Creative Commons BY NC SA 4.0.