2.2 Research methods and fact-finding techniques

Journalists rely on a variety of research methods to gather information for their stories. From conducting interviews and observing events to analyzing public records and databases, these techniques help reporters uncover facts and provide context for their reporting.

Fact-checking is crucial in ensuring accuracy and credibility. Journalists verify information through multiple sources, cross-reference details, and identify potential biases. These methods, combined with ethical interviewing practices, form the foundation of reliable news gathering.

Research methods for news gathering

Primary research methods

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• Interviews conducted in person, over the phone, or through digital communication channels
  • Informational interviews gather background information and context
  • Investigative interviews seek to uncover new facts or evidence
  • Personality profiles focus on the life and experiences of an individual
• Observational research involves directly witnessing and documenting events, environments, and behaviors
  • Attending public meetings (town halls, city council sessions)
  • Observing court proceedings
  • Covering community events (festivals, protests, rallies)
• Surveys and polls gather data and opinions from a larger sample of people
  • Designing clear, unbiased questions
  • Ensuring a representative sample of respondents
  • Analyzing and interpreting survey results

Secondary research methods

• Gathering information from existing sources
  • Public records (property records, court documents, financial disclosures)
  • Databases (academic journals, news archives)
  • Reputable news outlets
• Providing background information, context, and supporting evidence for the story
• Fact-checking and verifying information from secondary sources against primary sources

Fact-checking techniques

Verifying information accuracy

• Confirming details with multiple sources
• Cross-referencing information
• Seeking out primary sources (eyewitnesses, official documents, expert opinions)
• Using secondary sources to support primary sources
• Verifying information with at least two independent sources
• Using anonymous sources sparingly and only when necessary

Identifying potential biases

• Being aware of potential biases and conflicts of interest in sources
• Striving to present a balanced and objective perspective in reporting
• Confirming the identity and credibility of sources
• Verifying dates, locations, and other specific details
• Checking the authenticity of documents and multimedia evidence

Public records and databases

Accessing public records

• Documents and information maintained by government agencies available to the public
  • Property records
  • Court documents
  • Financial disclosures
  • Government meeting minutes
• Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests for federal agency records
• State and local agency public records laws and request procedures

Utilizing online databases

• LexisNexis, ProQuest, and JSTOR for news archives, academic journals, and other information sources
• Evaluating the credibility and accuracy of online sources
• Using social media platforms and search engines to gather information and leads
• Applying data journalism techniques
  • Statistical analysis and visualization
  • Collecting, cleaning, and analyzing large datasets
  • Using spreadsheets, databases, and programming languages

Interviewing for information

Preparing for interviews

• Researching the topic
• Identifying potential sources
• Preparing questions and talking points
• Asking open-ended questions to encourage detailed responses
• Using follow-up questions to clarify or expand on important points

Building rapport with sources

• Applying active listening skills (maintaining eye contact, nodding, summarizing key points)
• Conducting interviews in a neutral, professional manner
• Avoiding leading questions or personal opinions that could bias responses
• Obtaining informed consent
• Respecting the source's privacy and confidentiality
• Accurately representing statements in the final story

Incorporating expert opinions

• Selecting experts based on relevant qualifications, experience, and communication skills
• Using expert opinions to provide credibility and context to a story
• Ensuring experts can communicate complex information clearly