Readers Embedded at APME Conference
The APME Gazette, published at the Associated Press Managing Editors conference in Louisville, has a story about a handful of readers who participated in the APME’s Credibility Roundtables and are now “embedded” in this year’s APME conference.
Here is an excerpt from the story:
John Bates, a social worker from Newark, Del., said he now has a completely different view of journalists.
“I’ve developed a whole new, great respect for the work that they do,” Bates said. “I now know how hard they work and that they’re committed to their work. I have a deep appreciation for that.”
Also according to an APME press release, papers that have participated in the Credibility Roundtables have made changes based on citizen suggestions.
Here are some examples of actions the press release says were taken:
“We’re more sensitive to corrections. We decided to start putting corrections on the front of each section instead of in the middle.
“We are periodically auditing our news articles on content issues such as sensitivity to racial issues that were raised at the roundtable.”
“Trying to improve accuracy in headlines. We now have writers write a suggested headline for their stories since they know their story better than the desk editors.”
“Paper became much more aggressive and confident dealing with differences in ethnic conflict. Increased cultural awareness. Now have broader source index.”
“Adopted a policy regarding use of photos that are graphic in nature.”
“Adopted a new style and practice for covering suicides based on recommendations from the U.S. Surgeon General.”
“Expanded our contacts in the African American community which has broadened the range of perspectives found within our coverage.”
“More emphasis on stories being comprehensive and having depth. Story assignments and daily news budgets include more discussion about consequences of stories and their placement.”
“Ensure that any arrest we report is followed through to final disposition of the case.”
