The Role of Training on New Media Technology in Boosting Arab Investigative Journalists’ professionalism

Abstract

The rapid development in the field of digital world has affected many disciplines. Media industry is one of the most affected fields. Hence, journalists need to cope with the ongoing technological evolution and its latest updates. Investigative journalists need to pay attention to this even more than their colleagues in the field. Investigative journalism has in general been remarkably growing in recent years; yet, it still faces significant challenges in the Arab world in terms of the right to access information and the use of open sources. This study focuses on Arab investigative journalism and particularly studies the importance of training on using digital technology and its effects on professionality and high-quality investigative journalistic production. From this standpoint, this study aims to explore the impact of training on new media techniques on Arab journalists' professionalism. To achieve this goal, this study followed a qualitative methodology through in-depth interviews with twelve Arab journalists who are practitioners and interested in investigative journalism. This study concluded important results about the positive effects of training on new media technology: Gaining more theoretical knowledge and practical skills to apply the acquired knowledge. This would enhance the efficiency of journalists and improve the quality of their work and their competitiveness in the journalistic work sector.