Main Points

The qualities that characterize news are timeliness, proximity, prominence, consequence, and human interest. Economics is also important.
There are three main types of news stories: hard, soft, and investigative.
Traditional print and broadcast news media have many gatekeepers. In contrast, online news media have only a few.
The Associated Press and United Press International are two wire services that provide stories to print and broadcast journalists.
Print, broadcast, and online journalism have their unique strengths and weaknesses.
All forms of news media strive for credibility.
Online news lets audience members select from more news sources and customize their news.
Computer-assisted reporting using the Internet is a powerful news tool for reporters.
Online news reporting raises fundamental issues about the journalism profession.

2002 McGraw-Hill Higher Education
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