Learning Outcome 3
Able to explain the importance of journalism in the United States
In the United States of America, journalists act as a watchdog in society. The First Amendment in the United States Constitution grants that people of this country have a right to religion, free speech, free press, right to peacefully assemble and right to petition the government. Acting as watchdogs means not only do journalists keep the public informed, but gives Americans a chance for their voice to be heard.
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In JOR 310: Media Law, students are taught to understand the importance of the First Amendment and its impact on journalism. The course puts strong emphasis on what it means to utilize press freedom in order to continue working as society's watchdog and remain loyal to citizens. A free press in democracy grants journalists the ability and permission to report information to the public that is unbiased, truthful and transparent. The First Amendment supports journalists and establishes their rights when seeking and reporting the truth.
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My first piece of evidence is a video package from the 5 Cent Cigar Newscast regarding parking issues on campus. In February 2018, URI created a new off-campus parking program after losing 573 spots due to the various construction projects. My reporting informs students and faculty, not only of the new plan and how students feel, but allowed anyone with information (like campus officials) to come forward and help inform the campus community.
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My second piece of evidence is a presentation on Supreme Court case, Santa Fe Independent School District vs. Doe. This case went to court over violation of the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.
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My third piece of evidence is an essay from JOR 115: Foundations of American Journalism. This course was the first journalism course I enrolled in at the University of Rhode Island. It was designed to give a basic introduction to history and function of journalism, putting strong emphasis on the value of the First Amendment. The attached report supports the argument that press freedom in the United States allows journalists to be "the lifeblood of a democracy."
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