News coverage has been an important part of our society since ancient times. People have transported news from place to place through oral transmission, written reports and, in more recent times, radio, television and the Internet. Technological developments such as rapid communication and espionage networks have increased the speed of news dissemination and influenced its content.
When people read or watch news, they are looking for information about the who, what, where, when and why of an event. They want to know if it is worth paying attention to and whether it will affect their lives. They also look for opinions and explanations from experts.
Some participants felt that it is important for their identities and values to be reflected in the news they consume. This was particularly true for those who said that their political affiliations or values influenced their choice of news sources.
In order to be trusted, news outlets should make it clear when they are reporting facts and when they are providing interpretations of events. Reputable sources clearly label these distinctions. For example, a newspaper or website may use a pull-out box or note alongside a story to explain which type of content it is. Television and radio stations may have on-air cues to help viewers understand if they are watching a news program or talk show.
For example, a news report about homelessness might use an episodic frame to create sympathy and evoke empathy for homeless individuals. Alternatively, it could use a thematic frame that looks at the overall issue of homelessness and the challenges cities face in trying to address it.
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