Award-Winning Investigative Journalist Stresses the Power of Data-Driven Storytelling in Digital Journalism Landscape
October 16, 2023. Adabraka, ACCRA: In an era dominated by data, journalists have the profound responsibility of transforming complex information into accessible narratives that resonate with their audiences. Seth J. Bokpe, award-winning investigative journalist, shared these insights with journalism students at African University College of Communication s Monday October 16, 2023.
Speaking at MediaTalk on the topic “Data Journalism and Visualization: Presenting Complex Data”, organized by the Ama Ata Aidoo Centre for Creative Writing at AUCC, he emphasized the pivotal role of data-driven storytelling in today’s digital journalism landscape.
Mr. Bokpe, senior reporter of The Fourth Estate, pointed out that the evolving world demands a fresh perspective from the journalism industry.
“Journalists are now expected to not only gather and report news, but to also possess insight to navigate intricate datasets and present them in a way that sparks understanding and engagement. The essence lies in using numbers as a means to tell specific, impactful stories”, he charged.
He explained that data journalism is crucial due to its capacity to enhance transparency and accountability through fact-based reporting, empowering the public to make informed decisions and fostering a more engaged and discerning society.
Mr. Bokpe said by contextualizing complex issues, combatting misinformation, and identifying trends through data analysis, it enables journalists to unravel hidden patterns and correlations, driving innovation and promoting a deeper understanding of critical societal, economic, and political developments.
He then shared online resources to assist students in their bid to make sense from vast amounts of numbers and statistics.
Harnessing Data
So, how can journalists effectively harness data to craft compelling narratives? Following are points garnered from Mr. Bokpe’s presentation.
In this data-driven age, journalists stand as the gatekeepers of information. Armed with the proficiency to transform intricate data into accessible narratives, they hold the key to informing, engaging, and inspiring their readership in ways that resonate in our digital world.
The future of journalism, Mr. Bokpe said, lies in the hands of those who can navigate the sea of data and emerge with stories that captivate and enlighten.
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