Preserving the fundamentals of good journalism

Media Helping Media (MHM) works to safeguard the core principles of accurate and impartial public-service journalism. We provide free training resources designed to be downloaded, adapted, and used worldwide.

Free resources to meeting multiple training needs

Graphic for journalism training exercisesOne-hour self-teaching exercises for journalism students working alone.
Graphic for training workshopsTwo-hour and four-hour workshops for smaller group training.
Graphic for adaptable lessonsOne-day lesson outlines for trainers to adapt to specific training needs
Graphic for journalism training modulesSix-week course modules created from MHM lessons.
Graphic for journalism refreshersOne-day refresher courses based on MHM modules.
Graphic for newsroom and management toolsFree tools for introducing effective and efficient newsroom and management systems.

Radio production training in Jaffna, Sri LankaFind out how to make the best use of the training material on Media Helping Media.

Journalism training in Serbia - image by David BrewerTry our introduction to journalism curriculum then take the MHM news professionalism test.

Interviewing for video journalists

Tips about the steps a video journalist can take to enhance the quality of filmed interviews.

Lateral reading

When it comes to fact-checking and adding context to news articles, journalists need to apply ‘lateral reading’ in order to broaden their knowledge.

Grammar for journalists

In this, the third module in the series about language and style from The News Manual, we look at some of the most important grammatical rules for news writing, at some common mistakes and how to correct them.

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.

Photojournalism and ethics

The following are commonly accepted ethical guidelines for photojournalists adopted by most mainstream media.

Integrity and journalism

Without integrity your journalism is untrustworthy and suspect. Integrity is essential if a journalist wants to investigate issues, shine a light in dark places, and to dig where others don't.

Editorial independence during elections

Election coverage is one of the most critical responsibilities of the media. It shapes public discourse, informs voters, and plays a vital role in safeguarding democracy.

Engaging viewers and listeners

TV and radio presenters need to connect with the audience, building trust and respect. Here Riz Khan shares some tips for engaging viewers and listeners.

Tool: The Content Value Matrix

In this article we look at the 'content value matrix, a tool designed to help media managers prioritise effort and resources on the stories that really matter to the target audience.

Investigating corruption

A journalist investigating corruption faces many risks and challenges. Investigative journalist Don Ray shares his experience.

Why would anyone want to talk to a journalist?

An investigative journalist has to encourage people to share information that they had previously withheld.

Tips for investigative journalism

This article looks at some of the main points to consider when producing a piece of investigative journalism.

Community radio running order

The following is a 24-hour daily schedule for a community radio station, balancing core programming elements with listener engagement and local relevance.

In-depth proactive journalism

Proactive journalism is an approach to newsgathering where reporters take the initiative in seeking out stories.

Creating a vibrant newsroom culture

The output of a news organisation is determined by how well the newsroom is run. A well-managed newsroom is more likely to produce compelling and engaging content focused on audience need.

Developing a media sales strategy

Sales is one of the most important elements of a media company's commercial strategy. The sustainability of the business relies on its ability to generate income.

Establishing a market differential

This article sets out the process for producing original, in-depth, issue-led journalism designed to inform the public debate.

Creating a current affairs programme

In this article we look at the steps involved in creating a news and current affairs programme based on the needs of the target audience.

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.

Testing boundaries – scenario

In this scenario we look at a situation where an editor faces breaking protocol because of the strength of a story.

Right of reply – scenario

When should journalists offer a right of reply? All the time, sometimes, never? Try our ethical scenario and add your comments.

Developing the potential of your staff

Media training is about investing in people - your staff. They are your most precious resource.

Tool: Gap analysis in media training

'Gap analysis' is an essential part of any 'training of trainers' (ToT) programme because it helps identify the specific needs of participants.

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. 

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