Editors Have Mixed Feelings on User-Generated Content

Abstract

This qualitative study of user-generated content (UGC) in Michigan community newspapers found that reader comments were the most widely used form of UGC, accepted by 80 percent of the 33 newspapers, but editors share concern about publishing unedited comments.

Virtual Vitriol

“…A primary concern of editors regarding comment forums is their content, tone, and potential negative effects (Brost, 2013). But what is it about the online environment that lends itself to potentially harmful language and expression?…”

“…Incivility within comment forums is of particular interest to news outlets and their editors who have expressed mixed opinions (Nielsen, 2012). On one hand, user-generated content can enhance journalism by adding supplemental information, giving stories a human interest angle, and even providing story tips for reporters (Brost, 2013; Gardiner et al, 2016; Paskin, 2010). But in what has been described as “the dark side” (Gardiner et al, 2016) of comments, there are concerns about the accuracy, tone, and professionalism of user-generated content and its impact on the outlet’s brand and reputation (Brossard & Scheufele, 2013; Singer & Ashman, 2009b; Singer et al, 2011).…”

Periodismo de datos

“…Y no son pocos los casos en que, lejos de hacerlo, los profesionales se oponen a su presencia y a su influencia en el trabajo de los periodistas. Hay muchos casos documentados de esta resistencia (Lewis et col. 2010;Brost, 2013;García de Torres (2010).…”