Bachelor of Science in Journalism (BSJ) Comprehensive Assessment — Questions and Answers

Question 1: Which of the following best illustrates the ethical duty of 'accountability' as outlined in the SPJ Code of Ethics?

Verifying all facts with at least two independent sources before publication
Acknowledging errors promptly and correcting them publicly (Correct answer)
Protecting the identity of confidential sources under all circumstances
Refusing to publish information obtained through deceptive means

Correct answer: Acknowledging errors promptly and correcting them publicly

Accountability in the SPJ Code requires journalists to admit mistakes, correct them expeditiously, and explain their news decisions to the public.

Question 2: Is it true or false that ethics and morals are the same thing?

Maybe
TRUE
None of these
FALSE (Correct answer)

Correct answer: FALSE

Ethics and morals are related but distinct concepts. Morals are typically personal principles of right and wrong, often derived from individual beliefs, upbringing, or religion. Ethics, on the other hand, are a system of principles or rules adopted by a group, profession, or society to govern collective behavior, such as journalistic ethics. Therefore, they are not the same thing.

Question 3: In broadcast newswriting, which of the following should be written in full (spelled out)?

459
$ (Correct answer)
DEA
ISI

Correct answer: $

In broadcast newswriting, symbols like '$' are typically spelled out as 'dollars' or 'bucks' to ensure clarity and natural pronunciation for the announcer. Acronyms like DEA and ISI are usually written as such and pronounced letter by letter, while numbers like 459 are written numerically but often pronounced as 'four-fifty-nine' or 'four hundred fifty-nine.' Spelling out currency symbols helps avoid misinterpretation and ensures smooth delivery.

Question 4: Which step is included in the Pre-Production phase for creating a digital story?

Applause
Putting it all together
Making the voiceover
Planning the project (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Planning the project

The Pre-Production phase is the initial and crucial stage of any digital storytelling project, focusing entirely on preparation and planning. This includes defining the story's purpose, outlining the narrative, identifying the target audience, gathering resources, and storyboarding. Thorough planning ensures a clear direction and efficient execution in subsequent production stages.

Question 5: Which ethical standard involves weighing the public's need for information against the possibility of causing harm or discomfort?

Be Accountable and Transparent
Act Independently
Minimize Harm (Correct answer)
Seek Truth and Report It

Correct answer: Minimize Harm

The 'Minimize Harm' ethical standard requires journalists to weigh the potential negative impact of their reporting against the public's need for information. This involves considering the privacy, welfare, and sensitivity of individuals involved in a story, especially vulnerable sources, while still fulfilling their duty to inform. It's about being compassionate and responsible in reporting.

Question 6: What does ISO measure in digital photography?

The focal length of a lens
The sensor's sensitivity to light (Correct answer)
The aperture opening
The shutter speed range

Correct answer: The sensor's sensitivity to light

ISO measures the camera sensor's sensitivity to light; higher ISO allows shooting in low light but introduces digital noise.

Question 7: Which social media phenomenon involves rapidly spreading false or misleading information, often faster than corrections can be issued?

Viral misinformation (Correct answer)
Astroturfing
Sock puppeting
Digital libel

Correct answer: Viral misinformation

Viral misinformation spreads through social networks at a speed that outpaces fact-checking, making corrections less likely to reach the same audience as the original falsehood.

Question 8: In the United States, photojournalists shooting on public property generally have the legal right to photograph whom?

Only events covered by press credentials
Only people who have given written consent
Anyone visible from a public space (Correct answer)
Only public officials

Correct answer: Anyone visible from a public space

U.S. law generally permits photography of anything visible from a public vantage point, including people, without consent.

Question 9: What is a 'podcast' in journalism and why has it grown in popularity?

A scripted TV news segment archived online
An audio program distributed digitally via RSS or streaming for on-demand listening (Correct answer)
A type of live radio broadcast archived digitally
A video series hosted on news websites

Correct answer: An audio program distributed digitally via RSS or streaming for on-demand listening

Podcasts are digital audio programs distributed via RSS or streaming platforms, growing popular because listeners can consume them on demand at their own pace.

Question 10: What is a 'newsletter' strategy in digital journalism?

A social media post summarizing the day's top stories
A print supplement mailed to subscribers weekly
A curated email publication sent directly to subscribers to build audience loyalty (Correct answer)
A push notification sent to mobile app users

Correct answer: A curated email publication sent directly to subscribers to build audience loyalty

Newsletters are curated email publications sent directly to subscribers, used by news organizations to build a direct, loyal audience relationship independent of social platforms.

Question 11: Under U.S. copyright law, when a journalist wants to quote extensively from a copyrighted book for a news article, the primary defense available is:

Fair use (Correct answer)
Public domain
Creative Commons licensing
The Freedom of Information Act

Correct answer: Fair use

Fair use permits limited use of copyrighted material for purposes such as news reporting, criticism, and commentary without requiring permission.

Question 12: What is 'reputation management' in public relations?

A legal strategy for removing negative court records
The process of responding only to negative reviews online
The ongoing effort to shape and maintain a positive public perception of a person or organization (Correct answer)
A software tool for flagging negative social media comments

Correct answer: The ongoing effort to shape and maintain a positive public perception of a person or organization

Reputation management is the proactive and reactive practice of shaping public perception through communications, media relations, and crisis response strategies.

Question 13: What forms the basis for ethics?

if it is legal or not
a gut feeling
personal standards of right and wrong
a group standards of right and wrong (Correct answer)

Correct answer: a group standards of right and wrong

Ethics refers to a set of principles or rules that govern the conduct of a particular group, profession, or society. Unlike personal morals, ethics are often formalized and shared, providing a framework for collective behavior and decision-making within a specific context, such as a professional code of ethics. They represent a group's consensus on right and wrong.

Question 14: What is a 'paywall' in the context of digital news publishing?

A firewall protecting newsroom computer systems
A system that restricts access to content unless the reader pays or subscribes (Correct answer)
A legal barrier preventing publication of certain stories
A tool for blocking web scrapers from copying articles

Correct answer: A system that restricts access to content unless the reader pays or subscribes

A paywall limits free access to digital content, requiring readers to pay a subscription or per-article fee to read full stories.

Question 15: Which of the following best describes the role of a 'gatekeeper' in traditional mass media theory?

A government regulator overseeing broadcast licenses
A legal advisor who reviews content before publication
An editor or producer who decides which stories reach the public (Correct answer)
A fact-checker who verifies sources before stories run

Correct answer: An editor or producer who decides which stories reach the public

In media theory, gatekeepers are editors, producers, or executives who control the flow of news by selecting which stories are published or broadcast.

Question 16: Which technique helps journalists avoid confirmation bias when investigating a story?

Publishing before all perspectives are gathered to maintain speed
Only interviewing sources who support the working hypothesis
Relying primarily on official government statements
Actively seeking sources and evidence that challenge or contradict the working thesis (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Actively seeking sources and evidence that challenge or contradict the working thesis

Deliberately seeking disconfirming evidence forces journalists to test their assumptions and produce more accurate reporting.

Question 17: What is 'document-driven journalism'?

Writing that focuses on historical events only
Journalism that avoids using anonymous sources
Journalism that relies solely on press releases for story leads
Reporting that centers on obtaining and analyzing primary source documents to verify claims (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Reporting that centers on obtaining and analyzing primary source documents to verify claims

Document-driven journalism uses primary source records—contracts, emails, court filings—as the evidentiary backbone of a story rather than relying on verbal accounts alone.

Question 18: What is a 'decisive moment' in photojournalism, as described by Henri Cartier-Bresson?

The moment when a photographer adjusts camera settings
The moment an editor selects the best photo
The instant when visual elements align to tell the story most powerfully (Correct answer)
The split second before the shutter is pressed

Correct answer: The instant when visual elements align to tell the story most powerfully

Cartier-Bresson's 'decisive moment' is when all visual and narrative elements peak simultaneously, creating the perfect photographic composition.

Question 19: Which of the following rights are safeguarded by the First Amendment?

Freedom of Speech
Freedom of Press
All of the above (Correct answer)
Freedom of Religion

Correct answer: All of the above

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution safeguards several fundamental freedoms, including freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and freedom of religion. It also protects the right to assemble peacefully and to petition the government. Therefore, all the listed rights are protected by this amendment.

Question 20: The 'spiral of silence' theory predicts that people will suppress their opinions when they believe their views are in what position?

Academic consensus
Majority
Minority (Correct answer)
Neutral

Correct answer: Minority

Elisabeth Noelle-Neumann's spiral of silence theory holds that individuals fear social isolation and stay quiet when they perceive their opinion to be in the minority.

Question 21: What is a CMS in online journalism?

Content Management System (Correct answer)
Copy Markup Standard
Circulation Metrics Summary
Chief Media Strategist

Correct answer: Content Management System

A Content Management System (CMS) is software used to create, edit, publish, and manage digital content on news websites.

Question 22: What is 'immersive journalism' and which technology most commonly enables it?

Embedding reporters in military units, enabled by satellite phones
Long-form writing with no visual elements, enabled by text-to-speech
A form of storytelling that places audiences inside a story experience, often using virtual reality (VR) (Correct answer)
Live coverage of natural disasters using weather drones

Correct answer: A form of storytelling that places audiences inside a story experience, often using virtual reality (VR)

Immersive journalism uses VR and 360-degree video to create first-person story experiences, pioneered by journalists like Nonny de la Peña.

Question 23: What is the primary function of a 'nut graf' in a feature story?

To explain why the story matters to the reader (Correct answer)
To summarize the story's ending
To introduce the main source
To provide statistical evidence

Correct answer: To explain why the story matters to the reader

The nut graf, typically placed after an anecdotal opening, explains the story's significance and tells readers why they should care.

Question 24: What is 'visual bias' in photojournalism?

Choosing the best-lit subject to photograph
Adjusting white balance for accuracy
Using a polarizing filter to enhance colors
When photo selection or framing presents a skewed or unfair portrayal (Correct answer)

Correct answer: When photo selection or framing presents a skewed or unfair portrayal

Visual bias occurs when photo choices, angles, or cropping present one group or viewpoint more favorably, distorting the audience's perception.

Question 25: What is a 'conflict of interest' in journalism and why must it be disclosed?

A story that covers two competing political parties
A personal or financial relationship that could compromise a journalist's objectivity (Correct answer)
A disagreement between two journalists on the same story
A legal dispute between a reporter and a source

Correct answer: A personal or financial relationship that could compromise a journalist's objectivity

A conflict of interest is any personal, financial, or relational connection that could bias a journalist's reporting, requiring disclosure to maintain credibility and trust.

Question 26: What did the Core Skills for the Future of Journalism report come up with?

Educators and professionals have similar opinions on core journalism skills.
There is a wide gap between professionals and educators in their thinking on core journalism skills. (Correct answer)
Journalists value multimedia and digital skills highly.
Professionals rate the importance of multimedia skills higher than educators.

Correct answer: There is a wide gap between professionals and educators in their thinking on core journalism skills.

The 'Core Skills for the Future of Journalism' report likely found a significant disparity between what journalism educators prioritize and what industry professionals value as core skills. This gap often arises from the rapid evolution of the media landscape, where practical industry demands shift faster than academic curricula can always adapt.

Question 27: Which type of microphone pickup pattern is most appropriate for a one-on-one broadcast news interview in a noisy outdoor environment?

Cardioid or hypercardioid (Correct answer)
Figure-eight (bidirectional)
Boundary microphone
Omnidirectional

Correct answer: Cardioid or hypercardioid

Cardioid and hypercardioid patterns reject sound from the sides and rear, isolating the interviewee's voice in noisy outdoor settings.

Question 28: In what phenomenon is global media believed to have played a significant role in initiating, sustaining, or disseminating the message of human rights and democracy?

The American Summer
The European Winter
The Arab Spring (Correct answer)
The Asian Fall

Correct answer: The Arab Spring

The Arab Spring uprisings, which began in late 2010, are widely recognized as a period where global media, particularly social media platforms, played a crucial role. These platforms facilitated the organization of protests, disseminated information about human rights abuses, and spread messages of democracy and dissent across various Middle Eastern and North African countries. They allowed activists to bypass state-controlled media and reach a global audience.

Question 29: Which frame rate is the US broadcast standard for television news production?

25fps
60fps
24fps
29.97fps (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 29.97fps

NTSC-based US broadcast television operates at 29.97 frames per second, which is the standard for news production and transmission.

Question 30: In a television news studio, what is the function of a 'prompter operator' during a live broadcast?

Operating the studio camera closest to the anchor desk
Managing the speed and scrolling of the teleprompter script for the anchor (Correct answer)
Cueing live guests when to begin speaking
Controlling the on-air graphics and lower thirds

Correct answer: Managing the speed and scrolling of the teleprompter script for the anchor

The prompter operator adjusts the teleprompter scroll speed in real time to match the anchor's reading pace, ensuring smooth delivery.

Question 31: What is the primary purpose of a 'kicker' in a news story?

To introduce a new source in the final paragraphs
To transition between two unrelated topics
To correct errors from earlier in the story
To provide a memorable or ironic closing that resonates with readers (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To provide a memorable or ironic closing that resonates with readers

A kicker is a closing quote or observation that gives the story a satisfying, often thought-provoking ending.

Question 32: What does 'engagement rate' measure on a digital news platform?

The speed at which a news site loads
The number of journalists employed by an outlet
The ratio of ads to editorial content
How actively readers interact with content through clicks, shares, and comments (Correct answer)

Correct answer: How actively readers interact with content through clicks, shares, and comments

Engagement rate measures the degree of reader interaction with content, including page views, shares, comments, and time spent on page.

Question 33: What are the key features or attributes associated with "writing for the ear"?

All of the above (Correct answer)
Uses short sentences
Writing to be heard, not read.
Values active voice over passive voice.

Correct answer: All of the above

'Writing for the ear' is a crucial skill in broadcast journalism, focusing on clarity, conciseness, and natural speech patterns. It involves using short, simple sentences, prioritizing the active voice for directness, and crafting language that sounds conversational and easily understood when spoken aloud. The goal is to ensure the audience can comprehend the information quickly and effortlessly without needing to re-read.

Question 34: What is 'source diversification' in investigative journalism?

Rotating anonymous sources to protect their identities
Consulting a variety of sources with different perspectives and access levels to form a complete picture (Correct answer)
Using sources from multiple countries
Limiting reliance on any one media database

Correct answer: Consulting a variety of sources with different perspectives and access levels to form a complete picture

Source diversification means relying on a range of sources—insiders, external experts, documents, and affected parties—to build a well-rounded and verifiable story.

Question 35: What is 'live blogging' in online journalism?

Updating a single web post in real time as a news event unfolds (Correct answer)
Using AI to auto-generate breaking news summaries
Publishing a recorded video of a news briefing
Scheduling multiple articles to publish throughout the day

Correct answer: Updating a single web post in real time as a news event unfolds

Live blogging involves continuously updating a single web page with new information, quotes, and updates as a news event happens in real time.

Question 36: Why did some respondents rate the ability to "work with HTML or other computer language" as less important?

The importance of coding and programming varies among individuals. (Correct answer)
Educators do not prioritize teaching computer languages.
It is not necessary for modern journalism.
The skill is irrelevant in the digital age.

Correct answer: The importance of coding and programming varies among individuals.

The importance of coding and programming skills like HTML varies significantly depending on the specific journalistic role and individual career path. While some journalists benefit greatly from these technical skills for data visualization or interactive storytelling, not all roles require deep programming knowledge, leading to differing perceptions of its criticality among respondents.

Question 37: What are 'public records' commonly used in U.S. investigative journalism?

Interview transcripts approved for public release
Published academic research used as background material
Government-held documents accessible to the public under sunshine laws, such as court filings, property records, and budgets (Correct answer)
Only federal documents obtained through FOIA requests

Correct answer: Government-held documents accessible to the public under sunshine laws, such as court filings, property records, and budgets

Public records include court documents, property deeds, budget filings, campaign finance reports, and other government documents accessible under state and federal open records laws.

Question 38: What is an 'IRE' and what resource does it provide to U.S. investigative journalists?

Independent Reporting Ethics board — oversees journalism conduct
Investigative Reporters and Editors — provides training, tipsheets, and a story database (Correct answer)
Internal Revenue Enforcement — provides tax records
Internet Research Engine — a specialized search tool for journalists

Correct answer: Investigative Reporters and Editors — provides training, tipsheets, and a story database

Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) is a U.S.-based nonprofit that provides training, conferences, tipsheets, and a database of award-winning investigative stories.

Question 39: What ethical issue arises when a PR professional offers journalists gifts, trips, or payments in exchange for coverage?

It is only an issue if the gift exceeds a certain dollar value
It is acceptable as long as it is disclosed in the article
It is a standard industry practice known as courtesy marketing
It compromises journalistic independence and constitutes a bribe, violating ethics codes (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It compromises journalistic independence and constitutes a bribe, violating ethics codes

Offering or accepting gifts or payments in exchange for favorable coverage is considered a bribe that corrupts editorial independence and violates both PR and journalism ethics codes.

Question 40: What is a 'media pitch' in public relations?

A formal complaint filed with a media ethics board
A sports broadcast segment sponsored by a company
A financial proposal from a news outlet to advertisers
A brief, targeted message sent to a journalist to suggest a story idea (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A brief, targeted message sent to a journalist to suggest a story idea

A media pitch is a concise, targeted communication from a PR professional to a journalist suggesting a story idea and explaining why it is newsworthy and relevant.

Question 41: Which of the following best defines 'intrusion' as a privacy tort relevant to journalism?

Creating a false impression about a person through selective facts
Misappropriating a person's name or likeness for commercial purposes
Unauthorized physical or electronic invasion of a person's private space to gather information (Correct answer)
Publishing embarrassing true facts about a person's private life

Correct answer: Unauthorized physical or electronic invasion of a person's private space to gather information

Intrusion involves invading someone's private space or affairs without consent, such as trespassing or using surveillance devices illegally.

Question 42: Which of the following best describes the concept of 'actual malice' as defined in New York Times Co. v. Sullivan (1964)?

Publishing a story out of personal hatred for the subject
Publishing with knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for the truth (Correct answer)
Publishing embarrassing information about a public figure
Publishing without editorial review

Correct answer: Publishing with knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for the truth

Actual malice requires proof that the defendant knew the statement was false or acted with reckless disregard of its truth or falsity.

Question 43: What is 'audience analytics' used for in digital newsrooms?

Editing raw video footage for broadcast
Managing a newsroom's social media accounts
Measuring reader behavior to inform editorial and distribution decisions (Correct answer)
Fact-checking stories before publication

Correct answer: Measuring reader behavior to inform editorial and distribution decisions

Audience analytics tools track metrics like page views, scroll depth, and referral sources to help editors understand what content resonates with readers.

Question 44: What does 'media monitoring' mean in a public relations context?

The FCC's oversight of broadcast license holders
Watching competitor organizations' press conferences live
Systematically tracking news coverage to measure an organization's media presence and public narrative (Correct answer)
Monitoring employee use of social media during work hours

Correct answer: Systematically tracking news coverage to measure an organization's media presence and public narrative

Media monitoring involves tracking news articles, broadcasts, and social media posts that mention an organization to evaluate coverage tone, reach, and narrative.

Question 45: What is 'open-source intelligence' (OSINT) in investigative journalism?

Sharing story tips with other news organizations
Using only publicly licensed photos in articles
Accessing sealed court documents through legal channels
Gathering information from publicly available sources such as social media, court records, and satellite images (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Gathering information from publicly available sources such as social media, court records, and satellite images

OSINT involves collecting and analyzing information from publicly accessible sources—social media, public filings, maps, images—to develop investigative leads and verify facts.

Question 46: Which U.S. federal law gives citizens the right to request and obtain records from federal government agencies?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (Correct answer)
The Privacy Act of 1974
The Sunshine Act
The Federal Records Act

Correct answer: The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)

FOIA, enacted in 1966, grants the public the right to request access to records held by federal executive branch agencies.

Question 47: What is 'misinformation' as distinguished from 'disinformation' in digital media?

They are interchangeable terms for false news
Misinformation is false content shared without intent to deceive; disinformation is deliberately false content (Correct answer)
Misinformation is deliberately false; disinformation is accidental
Misinformation applies to images; disinformation applies to text

Correct answer: Misinformation is false content shared without intent to deceive; disinformation is deliberately false content

Misinformation is false or inaccurate information spread without deliberate intent, while disinformation is false information deliberately created to deceive.

Question 48: What does 'media relations' mean in a professional context?

The study of how media companies are related to each other
The strategic management of communication between an organization and journalists or media outlets (Correct answer)
The process of producing advertisements for news programs
The legal relationship between a publisher and its employees

Correct answer: The strategic management of communication between an organization and journalists or media outlets

Media relations is the practice of building and maintaining relationships with journalists to facilitate accurate and favorable coverage of an organization.

Question 49: What does SEO stand for in the context of online journalism?

Social Engagement Output
Syndicated Editorial Operations
Search Engine Optimization (Correct answer)
Story Editorial Overview

Correct answer: Search Engine Optimization

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) refers to techniques used to improve a webpage's visibility and ranking in search engine results.

Question 50: What is an 'embargo' in the context of press releases?

An agreement that journalists will not publish information before a specified date and time (Correct answer)
A restriction on foreign journalists attending a press conference
A government order blocking coverage of a sensitive topic
A legal ban on publishing a story

Correct answer: An agreement that journalists will not publish information before a specified date and time

An embargo is a mutual agreement between a source and journalists that information can be prepared in advance but will not be published until the agreed release time.

Question 51: What AP Style rule applies to the first reference to a person in a news story?

Use the person's title and full name (Correct answer)
Use first name only
Use full name with age and hometown
Use last name only with a title if applicable

Correct answer: Use the person's title and full name

AP Style requires using a person's courtesy title (if applicable) and full name on first reference, then last name only on subsequent references.

Question 52: What is 'metadata' in the context of online news articles?

The reporter's byline and contact information
The comment section attached to an article
The photographs embedded within a news story
Descriptive information about an article such as title tags, keywords, and publish date used by search engines (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Descriptive information about an article such as title tags, keywords, and publish date used by search engines

Metadata includes title tags, meta descriptions, keywords, and publish dates that help search engines index and rank news articles appropriately.

Question 53: Why might a photojournalist choose to use a telephoto lens?

To get a fish-eye distortion effect
To photograph subjects from a distance without intruding on a scene (Correct answer)
To shoot in very low light conditions
To capture wider environmental context

Correct answer: To photograph subjects from a distance without intruding on a scene

Telephoto lenses allow photographers to shoot from a distance, minimizing disruption to subjects and capturing candid moments safely.

Question 54: What does 'A/B testing' mean in the context of digital headline writing?

Editing a headline in two rounds of revisions
Comparing two reporters' writing styles for a single story
Publishing two different headlines to different audience segments to see which performs better (Correct answer)
Testing headlines for AP Style compliance

Correct answer: Publishing two different headlines to different audience segments to see which performs better

A/B testing involves publishing two versions of a headline to separate audience samples to measure which version drives more clicks or engagement.

Question 55: What is 'native advertising' in digital journalism?

Classified listings embedded in sports sections
Advertising sold only to local businesses
Banner ads displayed alongside news articles
Paid content designed to match the editorial look and feel of a news site (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Paid content designed to match the editorial look and feel of a news site

Native advertising is paid promotional content formatted to resemble editorial content, which raises transparency and labeling concerns.

Question 56: What characteristics or actions would lead to something being classified as obscene?

makes your grandma blush
makes someone mad
offends local standards (Correct answer)
is said in front of children

Correct answer: offends local standards

Obscenity is legally defined by the Miller test, which includes whether the average person, applying contemporary community standards, would find that the work, taken as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest. Therefore, offending local or community standards is a key characteristic in determining if something is legally obscene. The other options are subjective or not legally precise.

Question 57: What were the effects on the political system when candidates started appearing on television in the 1970s?

The political parties became more polarized
Gridlock quickly enveloped both houses of Congress
Voters began placing a higher value on a candidate's stand on issues
Voters began placing a higher value on a candidate's personality (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Voters began placing a higher value on a candidate's personality

The advent of television brought political candidates directly into people's homes, shifting the focus from purely policy-based debates to a more personal connection. Voters could now see and hear candidates, leading them to evaluate factors like charisma, appearance, and perceived trustworthiness more heavily. This emphasized personality and image over detailed policy positions in political campaigns.

Question 58: A journalist receives a leaked classified government document revealing waste of public funds. Publishing it is most directly governed by ethical tension between:

The public's right to know versus potential harm from unauthorized disclosure (Correct answer)
Copyright law and the work-for-hire doctrine
Accuracy and attribution standards
Shield laws and confidentiality agreements

Correct answer: The public's right to know versus potential harm from unauthorized disclosure

Publishing leaked classified information requires weighing the public benefit of transparency against risks of harm to national security or individuals.

Question 59: What does 'spokesperson training' typically involve in media relations?

Preparing organizational representatives to communicate effectively and on-message in media interviews (Correct answer)
Training PR professionals to monitor social media
Training journalists on how to conduct interviews
Teaching executives to write their own press releases

Correct answer: Preparing organizational representatives to communicate effectively and on-message in media interviews

Spokesperson training prepares executives and officials to deliver key messages clearly, handle difficult questions, and avoid miscommunication during media interviews.

Question 60: A reporter is covering a fatal car accident and wants to interview a visibly distressed eyewitness. What ethical obligation must come first?

Obtaining the witness's full legal name for the chyron
Securing exclusive footage before competitors arrive
Recording the interview before asking permission to use it
Assessing whether the witness is in a state to give informed consent (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Assessing whether the witness is in a state to give informed consent

Journalistic ethics require that reporters assess a subject's emotional state and ensure they can provide meaningful informed consent before conducting an interview.

Question 61: What is 'follow the money' as an investigative journalism strategy?

Examining a newsroom's budget to find editorial bias
Tracing financial transactions to reveal corruption, conflicts of interest, or illegal activity (Correct answer)
Tracking a story's potential advertising revenue before assigning it
Monitoring the stock prices of companies in a news story

Correct answer: Tracing financial transactions to reveal corruption, conflicts of interest, or illegal activity

'Follow the money' means tracing financial flows—payments, contracts, donations—to uncover corruption, bribes, or hidden conflicts of interest.

Question 62: What is a 'press conference' and when do organizations typically hold one?

A private briefing held for a newsroom's editorial board only
A formal event where an organization addresses multiple journalists simultaneously to announce major news (Correct answer)
A scheduled one-on-one interview between a CEO and a reporter
A legal proceeding where journalists testify about a story

Correct answer: A formal event where an organization addresses multiple journalists simultaneously to announce major news

A press conference is an organized event where an organization or official presents news to assembled journalists and takes questions, typically used for major announcements.

Question 63: A social media platform's algorithm promotes content that generates strong emotional reactions, leading to increased exposure to outrage-inducing news. This illustrates:

Algorithmic amplification of emotional content (Correct answer)
The marketplace of ideas
Objective journalism principles
The watchdog function of media

Correct answer: Algorithmic amplification of emotional content

Algorithmic amplification of emotional content occurs when platform recommendation systems favor high-engagement posts, often those triggering anger or fear, shaping what users see.

Question 64: The ethical principle of 'independence' in journalism primarily means:

Publishing stories without corroboration
Working without an editor's supervision
Avoiding conflicts of interest and resisting pressure from advertisers, government, or sources (Correct answer)
Operating as a freelance journalist rather than for a news organization

Correct answer: Avoiding conflicts of interest and resisting pressure from advertisers, government, or sources

Editorial independence requires journalists to report without undue influence from commercial, political, or personal interests.

Question 65: What is 'social listening' as practiced in digital journalism?

Analyzing audience demographics for ad targeting
Tracking social media conversations to identify trending stories and sources (Correct answer)
Using social platforms to broadcast live news segments
Monitoring audio streams on social media platforms

Correct answer: Tracking social media conversations to identify trending stories and sources

Social listening involves monitoring social media platforms to spot emerging stories, identify potential sources, and gauge public reaction to news events.

Question 66: What is 'data journalism'?

Using AI tools to fact-check stories
Journalism that reports exclusively on technology companies
Storing digital articles in a newsroom database
Using data analysis and visualization to uncover and tell news stories (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Using data analysis and visualization to uncover and tell news stories

Data journalism involves gathering, analyzing, and visualizing large data sets to find and illustrate news stories in compelling ways.

Question 67: What is 'white balance' and why is it critical in broadcast news camera operation?

A legal standard requiring equal race representation in on-air talent
A post-production color grade applied uniformly across a news package
A microphone calibration setting that filters ambient white noise
A camera setting that adjusts color temperature so whites appear neutral under different lighting conditions (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A camera setting that adjusts color temperature so whites appear neutral under different lighting conditions

White balance calibrates the camera to interpret true white correctly under a given light source, preventing color casts that make skin tones and backgrounds appear unnatural.

Question 68: What is the primary purpose of a 'storyboard' in video journalism production?

To log tape-recorded audio interviews
To list all sources interviewed for a story
To write the final script word-for-word
To visually plan shot sequences and transitions before filming (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To visually plan shot sequences and transitions before filming

A storyboard is a pre-production tool that sketches out planned shots and their sequence, helping journalists organize visual storytelling before going to the field.

Question 69: What is a 'press kit' or 'media kit'?

A collection of photography equipment loaned to journalists
A legal document granting press access to an event
A software subscription for media monitoring
A package of background materials, fact sheets, bios, and press releases provided to media (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A package of background materials, fact sheets, bios, and press releases provided to media

A press or media kit is a pre-packaged collection of informational materials—fact sheets, executive bios, press releases, and images—provided to journalists to assist coverage.

Question 70: What is the primary concern with using anonymous social media accounts as sources in online journalism?

They are difficult to embed in articles
They require special software to access
They violate platform terms of service
Their identity and credibility cannot be independently verified (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Their identity and credibility cannot be independently verified

Anonymous accounts cannot be verified, making it impossible to confirm the source's identity, expertise, or potential conflicts of interest.

Question 71: Which video compression codec is most widely used for broadcast-quality HD news delivery over IP networks?

H.264 (AVC) (Correct answer)
MJPEG
WMV9
DivX

Correct answer: H.264 (AVC)

H.264 (AVC) offers an optimal balance of compression efficiency and image quality, making it the broadcast industry standard for HD IP delivery.

Question 72: What is a wide-angle lens best suited for in photojournalism?

Isolating distant subjects from backgrounds
Compressing perspective between foreground and background
Capturing environmental context and sweeping scenes (Correct answer)
Shooting wildlife from a safe distance

Correct answer: Capturing environmental context and sweeping scenes

Wide-angle lenses have a short focal length that captures a broad field of view, ideal for environmental portraits and crowd scenes.

Question 73: A reporter writes a story claiming a restaurateur 'probably' committed health code violations based on anonymous tips alone. The restaurateur sues for defamation. The reporter's weakest defense is likely:

The story was based on single-source anonymous tips without verification (Correct answer)
The restaurateur is a limited-purpose public figure
The statement was clearly labeled as opinion
The publication added a correction

Correct answer: The story was based on single-source anonymous tips without verification

Relying solely on unverified anonymous tips to publish a damaging claim demonstrates reckless disregard for the truth, undermining a falsity defense.

Question 74: A journalist embedded with military forces is told by commanders not to report on troop movements for security reasons. This represents a conflict between press freedom and:

The journalist's editorial independence from advertisers
National security and operational security (OPSEC) concerns (Correct answer)
The First Amendment's establishment clause
Copyright ownership of military footage

Correct answer: National security and operational security (OPSEC) concerns

Embedded journalists often agree to ground rules restricting certain information to prevent endangering military operations and personnel.

Question 75: What is a 'whistleblower' in the context of investigative journalism?

An insider who discloses misconduct, illegality, or wrongdoing within an organization (Correct answer)
A sports journalist covering referee misconduct
A source who contacts multiple news organizations simultaneously
An editor who alerts reporters to ethical violations

Correct answer: An insider who discloses misconduct, illegality, or wrongdoing within an organization

A whistleblower is an insider—employee, contractor, or official—who reveals confidential information about wrongdoing within an organization to journalists or authorities.

Question 76: Which theory argues that media do not tell people what to think but instead make certain attributes of issues more prominent, influencing judgments?

Framing
Uses and gratifications
Second-level agenda-setting (Correct answer)
Cultivation theory

Correct answer: Second-level agenda-setting

Second-level agenda-setting (attribute agenda-setting) holds that media influence not just what topics are salient but which attributes of those topics audiences focus on.

Question 77: What is the primary purpose of a caption in photojournalism?

To replace the need for a written article
To provide context and identify key details about the image (Correct answer)
To credit only the photographer's name
To describe the aesthetic qualities of the photo

Correct answer: To provide context and identify key details about the image

Captions give readers essential context—who, what, when, and where—that cannot be conveyed by the image alone.

Question 78: What is a 'tip' in investigative journalism and how should journalists evaluate one?

A press release from a government agency flagging a news story
A financial payment to a source for exclusive information
An unverified lead or piece of information suggesting a story worth investigating (Correct answer)
A formal complaint submitted to a newsroom's ethics board

Correct answer: An unverified lead or piece of information suggesting a story worth investigating

A tip is an initial unverified lead that a journalist must independently evaluate through document review, additional sourcing, and fact-checking before publishing.

Question 79: What is 'clickbait' and why is it criticized in journalism?

A technique to link related articles within a story
An interactive quiz embedded in a news story
Sensational or misleading headlines designed to maximize clicks over accuracy (Correct answer)
Sponsored content clearly labeled as advertising

Correct answer: Sensational or misleading headlines designed to maximize clicks over accuracy

Clickbait uses exaggerated or misleading headlines to attract clicks, prioritizing traffic over accuracy and undermining journalistic credibility.

Question 80: What is a 'libel suit' and how can strong investigative reporting help defend against one?

A lawsuit claiming a journalist stole intellectual property
A regulatory complaint about a journalist's broadcast license
A lawsuit claiming a published statement is false and damaging to someone's reputation (Correct answer)
A copyright claim filed by a source against a news outlet

Correct answer: A lawsuit claiming a published statement is false and damaging to someone's reputation

A libel suit alleges that a published false statement harmed someone's reputation; thorough documentation, multiple sources, and giving subjects a chance to respond are key defenses.

Question 81: What does 'SEO' mean in the context of digital multimedia journalism?

Social Engagement Optimization
Search Engine Optimization — improving content visibility in search results (Correct answer)
Secure Editorial Operations
Sequential Episode Output

Correct answer: Search Engine Optimization — improving content visibility in search results

SEO involves structuring headlines, metadata, and content to rank higher in search engine results, driving organic audience traffic to journalism pieces.

Question 82: What does 'service journalism' refer to?

Content that provides practical, actionable information to readers (Correct answer)
Journalism covering military and public service workers
News coverage of government social services
Charitable journalism produced for nonprofit organizations

Correct answer: Content that provides practical, actionable information to readers

Service journalism provides useful information readers can apply to their own lives, such as how-to guides and consumer advice.

Question 83: What does the AP Stylebook primarily govern in magazine and news writing?

Photography caption formatting and photo credit placement
Rules for advertisement placement relative to editorial content
Consistency in grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and word usage (Correct answer)
Story length requirements and narrative structure

Correct answer: Consistency in grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and word usage

The AP Stylebook provides standardized rules for grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and usage to ensure consistency across journalism publications.

Question 84: What does 'backtiming' mean in the context of a live news broadcast?

Replaying earlier footage to fill unexpected dead air
Recording a segment to air later rather than live
Editing a package from the end of the story to the beginning
Calculating when a segment must begin so it ends exactly at a fixed point (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Calculating when a segment must begin so it ends exactly at a fixed point

Backtiming is the process of counting backward from a fixed endpoint (like a commercial break) to determine the latest possible start time for a segment.

Question 85: A news editor discovers that a story was sourced from a fabricated document. The ethically and professionally correct immediate action is:

Publish the story anyway since the core narrative may be true
Publish a correction without removing the story
Replace the fabricated document with a paraphrase
Kill the story, investigate the lapse, and consider issuing a correction or retraction if the story ran (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Kill the story, investigate the lapse, and consider issuing a correction or retraction if the story ran

Journalistic integrity requires halting publication of material based on fabricated evidence and, if already published, issuing a full retraction.

Question 86: A news outlet publishes a story identifying a juvenile suspect in a violent crime. This practice is ethically problematic primarily because:

It may cause lasting harm to a minor whose identity is legally protected in court proceedings (Correct answer)
It conflicts with copyright law
The story lacks multiple sources
Juveniles cannot be newsworthy by law

Correct answer: It may cause lasting harm to a minor whose identity is legally protected in court proceedings

Publishing juvenile suspects' identities can cause irreversible harm and conflicts with legal protections designed to shield minors from public stigma.

Question 87: In audience analytics for digital journalism, what does a high 'bounce rate' typically indicate?

Many visitors leave the page quickly without engaging further with the site (Correct answer)
Articles are being shared widely across social platforms
The multimedia content is loading too slowly to measure
Returning readers are visiting the site multiple times per day

Correct answer: Many visitors leave the page quickly without engaging further with the site

A high bounce rate suggests visitors are not finding what they expected or that content isn't compelling enough to prompt further exploration of the site.

Question 88: What does 'source protection' mean in investigative journalism?

Using encryption to secure sources of advertising revenue
Backing up digital files to protect against data loss
Keeping a confidential source's identity secret to prevent retaliation (Correct answer)
Protecting a reporter from lawsuits filed by sources

Correct answer: Keeping a confidential source's identity secret to prevent retaliation

Source protection means safeguarding the identity of a confidential source who could face harm, job loss, or legal jeopardy if exposed.

Question 89: What does 'on background' mean in a journalist-source agreement?

The information cannot be used in any form
The source's full name and title must be published
The information is only usable in opinion pieces
The journalist can use the information but must not identify the source by name (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The journalist can use the information but must not identify the source by name

'On background' allows a journalist to use the information while keeping the source's identity confidential.

Question 90: A journalist is writing about a local school's declining test scores. Which source type provides the strongest factual foundation?

Comments from students on social media
A teacher's personal observations
Anecdotal accounts from parents
Official state education department data (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Official state education department data

Official government data provides verifiable, authoritative statistics that anchor factual claims in news stories.

Question 91: In photojournalism, what does 'establishing shot' refer to?

A portrait of the main news subject
The first photo taken to test exposure settings
A close-up that focuses on a key detail
A wide-angle image that shows the location and context of a story (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A wide-angle image that shows the location and context of a story

An establishing shot is typically a wide image that orients the viewer to the setting, providing context for the rest of the story's visual package.

Question 92: The ethical principle of 'minimizing harm' in the SPJ Code of Ethics would most directly apply when a journalist:

Negotiates deadlines with an editor
Chooses between two competing story angles
Decides whether to name a sexual assault victim in a story (Correct answer)
Calculates the length of a news package for broadcast

Correct answer: Decides whether to name a sexual assault victim in a story

Minimizing harm guides journalists to consider the potential damage to individuals — such as sexual assault victims — before publishing identifying information.

Question 93: What does 'on background' mean when a source agrees to speak to a journalist?

The source requires the journalist to submit questions in advance
The information can be used but the source cannot be identified by name (Correct answer)
The source will only discuss historical events
The journalist may not publish any part of the conversation

Correct answer: The information can be used but the source cannot be identified by name

'On background' means the journalist can use the information provided but must not identify the source by name, often attributing it to 'a senior official' or similar.

Question 94: Why do investigative journalists typically seek multiple independent sources to corroborate a claim?

To increase the number of named sources in a story
To reduce the risk of publishing false information based on a single biased or mistaken account (Correct answer)
To meet word count requirements for long-form articles
To satisfy legal requirements for print publication

Correct answer: To reduce the risk of publishing false information based on a single biased or mistaken account

Corroboration from multiple independent sources minimizes the risk that a single mistaken, biased, or deceptive source will cause inaccurate reporting.

Question 95: The legal concept of 'libel per se' refers to statements that:

Must be proven false by the plaintiff to succeed in court
Can only be made in written form
Are so inherently damaging that harm to reputation is presumed without proof of actual damages (Correct answer)
Are protected by absolute privilege

Correct answer: Are so inherently damaging that harm to reputation is presumed without proof of actual damages

Libel per se covers categories of statements—such as falsely accusing someone of a crime or loathsome disease—where reputational damage is presumed.

Question 96: What is a 'hyperlink' and why is it important in online journalism?

A form of digital advertising embedded in articles
A type of audio player used in multimedia packages
A clickable text or image that connects readers to related content or sources (Correct answer)
An embedded video player for news stories

Correct answer: A clickable text or image that connects readers to related content or sources

Hyperlinks allow journalists to connect readers to source documents, related stories, and supporting evidence, increasing transparency and depth.

Question 97: Which organization publishes widely respected ethics guidelines specifically for photojournalists in the U.S.?

Reuters
National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) (Correct answer)
Associated Press (AP)
Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ)

Correct answer: National Press Photographers Association (NPPA)

The NPPA maintains a Code of Ethics specifically tailored to photojournalists, covering manipulation, staging, and fair representation.

Question 98: Can a source, who was previously a gang member and is concerned about her safety, ethically receive ____ while keeping her identity confidential?

immunity
anonymity (Correct answer)
control of the story
the right to review

Correct answer: anonymity

Anonymity is the practice of concealing a source's identity, which is crucial when a source fears for their safety. Ethically, journalists grant anonymity to protect vulnerable individuals and encourage them to share important information without personal risk. Immunity, the right to review, or control of the story are different concepts not directly related to protecting a source's identity in this context.

Question 99: What is FOIA and why is it important to investigative journalists in the U.S.?

Federal Online Information Archive — a database of public records
Freedom of Intellectual and Opinion Acts — a Supreme Court ruling
Freedom of Information Act — gives journalists the right to request federal government records (Correct answer)
Foundation of Investigative and Open Access — an NGO supporting press freedom

Correct answer: Freedom of Information Act — gives journalists the right to request federal government records

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) gives the public, including journalists, the legal right to request access to records held by federal government agencies.

Question 100: What does 'responsive design' mean for a news website?

A web layout that adapts to display correctly on any device screen size (Correct answer)
A design that changes based on reader feedback
A CMS that alerts editors when corrections are needed
A site that automatically publishes breaking news alerts

Correct answer: A web layout that adapts to display correctly on any device screen size

Responsive design ensures a news website displays and functions properly across desktops, tablets, and smartphones by adapting its layout to screen size.

Bachelor of Science in Journalism (BSJ) Comprehensive Assessment

The BSJ comprehensive assessment evaluates undergraduate journalism students across core competencies including reporting, media law, digital media, investigative techniques, visual storytelling, and public relations as defined by ACEJMC accreditation standards.

100

Questions

150 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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