BSJ Bachelor of Journalism: Journalistic Arts Skills 5

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

An editor or producer who decides which stories reach the public

Answer

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

Question 2

When a journalist uses the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), they are seeking to:

Accepted Answer

Obtain access to federal agency records

Answer

FOIA allows journalists and the public to request disclosure of previously unreleased information held by US federal government agencies.

Question 3

A broadcast reporter recording a 'stand-up' is doing which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Appearing on camera to deliver part of the story

Answer

A stand-up is when a TV reporter appears on camera, typically at the scene, delivering narrative content that bridges parts of the story.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Decides whether to name a sexual assault victim in a story

Answer

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

Question 5

What distinguishes 'solutions journalism' from traditional reporting?

Accepted Answer

It focuses on responses to problems, not just the problems themselves

Answer

Solutions journalism rigorously covers how people and organizations are responding to social problems, complementing traditional problem-focused reporting with evidence of what works.

BSJ - Bachelor of Journalism Practice Test

BSJ - Bachelor of Journalism Practice Test

BSJ Bachelor of Journalism: Journalistic Arts Skills 5