📡Narrative Radio Unit 7 – Investigative Audio Journalism & Narratives

Key Concepts in Investigative Audio Journalism

• Involves in-depth reporting to uncover hidden facts, corruption, or wrongdoing
• Requires extensive research, fact-checking, and verification of sources
• Often focuses on social justice issues, government accountability, and corporate misconduct
• Utilizes a variety of audio elements (interviews, ambient sound, narration) to create compelling stories
• Aims to expose the truth and promote public awareness and change
• Demands high ethical standards, including accuracy, fairness, and minimizing harm to sources
• Frequently employs a narrative structure to engage listeners and maintain interest throughout the story

Research Techniques and Ethics

• Thorough background research is essential to understand the context and identify potential sources
• Utilize public records (court documents, government reports) to gather initial information
• Conduct interviews with a wide range of sources, including whistleblowers, experts, and those directly affected by the issue
• Verify information through multiple sources and corroborating evidence
• Maintain detailed documentation of research process and findings
• Adhere to ethical principles, such as protecting confidential sources and avoiding deception or misrepresentation
  • Obtain informed consent from interviewees and clarify the purpose and intended use of the information
  • Be transparent about the journalist's identity and affiliation

Narrative Structure in Audio Storytelling

• Employs a clear beginning, middle, and end to guide listeners through the story
• Starts with a strong hook to capture attention and establish the central conflict or question
• Develops characters and their motivations to create an emotional connection with the audience
• Uses a combination of narration, interviews, and sound elements to advance the plot and provide context
• Incorporates moments of tension, surprise, and resolution to maintain engagement
• Concludes with a satisfying ending that addresses the central question and provides closure or a call to action
• May utilize non-linear storytelling techniques (flashbacks, parallel narratives) to add depth and complexity

Interview Skills and Techniques

• Conduct pre-interview research to develop informed and targeted questions
• Establish rapport and trust with interviewees to encourage open and honest responses
• Use open-ended questions to elicit detailed and nuanced answers
• Listen actively and follow up on interesting points or inconsistencies
• Be prepared to adapt questioning based on the interviewee's responses and demeanor
• Record interviews in high-quality audio for later use in the story
• Obtain necessary releases and permissions from interviewees
  • Clarify the intended use of the interview and any potential risks or consequences of participation

Sound Design and Audio Production

• Utilize a variety of audio elements (interviews, ambient sound, music) to create a rich and immersive listening experience
• Record high-quality audio in the field using professional equipment (microphones, recorders)
• Gather ambient sound to establish a sense of place and provide context for the story
• Use music and sound effects sparingly to enhance emotional impact and transitions
• Edit audio for clarity, pacing, and narrative flow
• Mix audio elements to create a balanced and cohesive final product
• Ensure consistent volume levels and sound quality throughout the story

Scripting and Storytelling for Radio

• Write scripts that are concise, conversational, and easy to understand when heard
• Use active voice and vivid language to paint a mental picture for listeners
• Structure scripts with a clear beginning, middle, and end to guide the narrative
• Incorporate natural transitions between segments and audio elements
• Use repetition and signposting to reinforce key points and help listeners follow the story
• Read scripts aloud to check for flow, pacing, and clarity
• Revise and refine scripts based on feedback and editorial input
  • Ensure scripts align with the overall narrative arc and intended message of the story

Fact-Checking and Verification Methods

• Verify the accuracy of all information included in the story, including names, dates, and statistics
• Consult multiple sources to corroborate facts and identify inconsistencies
• Use reputable databases and fact-checking resources (Snopes, PolitiFact) to verify claims
• Contact sources directly to confirm quotes and information attributed to them
• Maintain detailed records of fact-checking process and sources consulted
• Correct errors promptly and transparently if they are discovered after publication
• Foster a culture of accuracy and accountability within the journalism organization
  • Encourage open communication and collaboration among team members to identify and address potential errors

Legal and Ethical Considerations

• Understand and adhere to libel, slander, and defamation laws to avoid legal action
• Respect privacy rights and obtain necessary permissions before using personal information or recordings
• Protect confidential sources and honor promises of anonymity
• Avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential biases or affiliations
• Minimize harm to sources and subjects, particularly vulnerable populations
• Consider the potential consequences and impact of the story on individuals and communities
• Adhere to professional codes of ethics (Society of Professional Journalists) and organizational standards
• Consult with legal experts when necessary to navigate complex legal issues
  • Maintain open communication with editors and management about legal and ethical concerns throughout the reporting process