Mid-term elections had us searching through debates, blogs, and articles in attempt to inform ourselves on this year’s current issues and candidates. Through my own investigations online I stumbled upon CNN’s iReport, an interactive or “live” blog where CNN’s audience has a chance to take part in the news. iReport is like any quintessential news blog, but with a twist. Posts by CNN staff are combined with unedited photos, videos, and quotes from people all over the country who want to share their stories about what is important to them.
What especially caught my eye was the number of posts from the 18-25 age range.
All over the country young voters, sent in photos of their “I Voted” stickers while others shared their excitement at being a first time voter. Many students wrote about how they voted, why they voted, and what was most important in this year’s race. Even underage high school students got involved by sharing their opinions and stories.
For a demographic that is notorious for their inactivity at the polls, I found this very intriguing.
This demographic is especially crucial in elections. If we want to get our youth involved (and keep them involved) with politics and current issues, this is the way to do it.
Being a student in the 18-25 age range myself, I can vouch for the fact that growing up with technology has lead us to become internet addicts, heavily relying on it as an information source. I believe however, that live blogging such as iReport has many notable benefits.
We are already online, so why not encourage and connect will us in a way we relate to?
Live blogging rids one-way communication with its audience and creates a forum for conversation. By reaching out to their audience, it encourages youth to stay active in current events, relate news to what is going on around them, and to express their own opinions.
It also allows the audience to comment on the news, saying what they think is important and what they would like to see from CNN.
The multi-media nature of this blog allows the audience to see first hand what is going on and what people have to say about it.
What better way to get people active and excited about the election then by literally showing people’s excitement and activity at the polls?
And during larger events, elections in particular, you want people talking.
It also provides tremendous value for the network itself. When people feel more engaged, they are more likely to read that networks news and receive their message. The two-way communication they have built also allows them to receive feedback on the stories they are covering and tips on what they could cover.
If live blogging is getting people excited and talking, I say it’s a step in a positive direction.
Caitlin Jagodzinski
University of Minnesota
Jour 3279
Blog Assignment
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