As digital media and user-generated content reshape the media landscape, the news industry faces a wave of unprecedented changes. In this dynamic environment, journalists must reflect on how to uphold the core mission of journalism and pursue truth and objectivity in an era of rampant misinformation.
Recently, Zhejiang Daily’s Deputy Director and Senior Editor Yan Qin was invited to deliver a lecture as part of the Comprehensive Practices in Digital Media course at the College of Media and International Culture. Titled “Sharpening News Judgment: How to Assess News Through Timeliness, Relevance, and Impact,” Yan shared her thoughts on the skills and mindset needed to thrive in today’s ever-changing media industry. The session was hosted by Professor Wu Hongyu.
With years of experience in planning, reporting, and editing, Yan has received multiple top awards, including the China News Award and Zhejiang News Award. Her work has been featured in Compilation of Outstanding Zhejiang Newsworks, and she is recognized as a top-tier professional in Hangzhou.
Redefining Journalism: Three Essential Elements
To bridge the gap between theory and practice, Yan redefined news for the students, offering a fresh perspective from both a journalist’s and editor’s standpoint. She introduced three critical elements that every piece of news should embody:
Timeliness and Vision: News should capture the pulse of the times, offering forward-looking insights and a distinct perspective.
Speed and Responsiveness: News should demonstrate sharpness and agility, delivering accurate information as quickly as possible.
Relevance and Accessibility: News must connect with the audience through relatable topics and language, using small but impactful angles to resonate with the public. At its core, journalism should aim to restore facts and present them as objectively as possible.
Lessons from the Field: Practical Insights into Journalism
Beyond theory, Yan emphasized that practical experience plays a pivotal role in journalism. She highlighted real-world challenges that journalists face and provided vivid examples from her career to help students analyze and solve problems effectively.
“Journalists must be bold but detail-oriented, humble yet confident,” Yan advised. “For editors, the key lies in prioritizing objectivity while respecting reporters’ work and adding creative value. This balance is essential to producing impactful stories.”
Building Skills and Perspective Through Reflection
How can aspiring journalists develop the skills to handle real-world challenges? Yan urged students to sharpen their ability to identify compelling stories that reflect societal trends and remain both observant and critical. She also stressed the importance of understanding one’s purpose when writing, encouraging students to think critically about the reasons behind their stories.
Using examples from her own award-winning work, Yan guided students through the process of refining their writing and understanding the broader responsibilities of journalism. Her analysis helped students think proactively about how to grow in their craft.
After the lecture, Professor Wu Hongyu commented that writing meaningful news requires a combination of fieldwork, careful observation, and an innovative mindset. Developing a “sharp eye” for news relies on diligence, pragmatism, and creativity.
Engaging in Dialogue: Learning Through Interaction
The session concluded with an engaging discussion between students and Yan on topics such as public awareness, on-site reporting, and fact-based journalism. These discussions deepened students’ understanding of the practical challenges in journalism.
Yan encouraged students to embrace hands-on experience, engage with the evolving media landscape, and approach challenges with an open mind. By doing so, they can refine their skills and adapt to the ever-changing demands of the profession.
