I do not believe that the growing convergence of technology will allow us to continue to maintain two First Amendments- one for broadcasting and one for everyone else. (Michael K. Powell, member, Federal Communications Commission).
Newspapers and news broadcasts both inform their audiences, but they do so in different ways. Print news is written for readers scanning a page with their eyes. Broadcast news is written for audiences tuning in with their ears. Another difference is that the printed word is permanent and can be reread. Broadcast words, once spoken, are gone forever; audiences cannot hear them again if their attention wanders or if they need to clarify a fact or issue. Furthermore, most people like the newspaper for its detailed information but enjoy broadcast news for quick, up-to-date information. Thus, the story organization and writing style of broadcast news differ from those of print because of the nature of the medium and how people use it.
Although the writing style for each medium is different, the types of stories chosen are not. The best stories in broadcast are similar to the best stories in print. They involve the audience and the viewer both. Compelling themes draw them into a story or involve them in the story in some way.
In addition to emphasizing similar news elements, print and broadcast journalists must do the same type of reporting work. Both reporters must identify a central point. They must research their topic to find the best angle, conduct background research on their sources to ask the best questions and employ good interviewing skills to obtain interesting quotes. Furthermore, they must be good writers and spellers so their copy flows easily for both the announcer as well as the viewer.
