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 RESOURCESThe 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.
Pitching a news story to an editor
Whether you're a journalist or reporter, learn how to pitch stories effectively to ensure they are accepted by your editor every time.
Constructing a TV news package
This article sets out the basics for creating a news package for TV. It's been created for those starting out in TV journalism.
Is your journalism ethical?
Reliable journalism is based on applying strict editorial ethics to all we do so that we can examine the issues that have the most impact on the lives of our audience.
Unconscious bias and journalism
Bias is a prejudice for or against a group, often leading to unfair judgements. While it's a normal human trait, understanding our biases is vital for fairness.
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.
Self-censorship in journalism
To combat self-censorship - a major hurdle for robust, impartial journalism - journalists must first recognize why it happens and understand its root causes.
Covering climate change
Reporting on climate change presents journalists with major hurdles, as it's a topical, controversial subject rooted in complex scientific research.
Avoiding bias during election coverage
During elections politicians will often accuse media organisations and their journalists of bias. We look at the challenges of producing fair election coverage.
Dealing with suspects as news sources
Sources are one of the most valuable resources for a journalist. They need to be handled with care in order to build trust and gain knowledge.
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.
In-depth proactive journalism
Proactive journalism is an approach to newsgathering where reporters take the initiative in seeking out stories.
The role of the hands-on editor
A hands-on editor should lead by example, be present for breaking news, and communicate well. They must trust staff, praising publicly and correcting privately.
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.
Community radio project plan
Launching a community radio station is a complicated exercise with lots of overlapping elements. The most important thing to do, before you do anything else, is to stop and think.
A proven way to finance independent media
The Media Development Investment Fund (MDIF) offers a distinctive route to media sustainability, combining mission-driven financing with deep strategic support to strengthen independent journalism worldwide.
The value of audience research
Knowing your audience and understanding the issues they face are essential factors in developing a compelling editorial proposition.
Legal threats – scenario
In this scenario a local newspaper reporter faces legal threats for a factual planning application report that lacked the applicant's demanded "positive spin."
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.
Returning favours – scenario
In this scenario a naive reporter's early success with a government minister leads to an ethical dilemma when a 'favour' is demanded in return.
The qualities required for media training
A trainer must not shout at participants or get into loud arguments. They must not make those attending their courses feel small or humiliate them.
Designing a media training plan
A well-designed media training plan could make the difference between the success and the failure of a media business.
Build your own journalism training course
Editors who want to improve their news output and raise the professionalism of their staff now have access to free training materials.
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: The MHM reporter’s notebook
If you are starting out in journalism you might find our Media Helping Media Reporter's Notebook helpful when covering your first story.
Tool: Training of Trainers (ToT)
Training of Trainers (ToT) courses are designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to train others.
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The content on Media Helping Media (MHM) is released via Creative Commons BY NC SA 4.0.