Journalist's Information Needs and Information Seeking - Behaviors in the Digital Age

  • DR RAJASHEKHAR MAHADEVAGOUDA,*  
  • Pavithrabai M S

Abstract

The information-seeking behavior of newspaper journalists in Karnataka has evolved significantly in the digital era, driven by the need for speed, accuracy, and audience engagement. As technology continues to advance, ongoing adaptation and training will be essential to meet the demands of the modern media landscape. Their information needs vary from basic information on a given topic to information for cross verification of facts, supporting evidence in the form of photos, and public opinion. News apps, e-newspapers, digital archives of newspapers, television news channels and social networking sites are the most frequently consulted e-sources of information. An attempt has been made through the study to identify the information-seeking behaviour of journalist working in 39 newspapers at the national, state, as well as regional levels. A total of 610 respondents have responded to the questionnaire. The data shows that approximately 60% of the respondents are below 35 years. The study witnessed that more than 30% of respondents opined that the information required about all areas is of utmost significance whereas more than 50% of respondents felt that the information is required at the level of moderate significance related to all areas. Non-availability of the required information, lack of time, lack of information search skills and lack of information in the required language are the major problems faced while accessing information in their libraries. Lack of qualified library staff, disorganized information resources and lack of ICT facilities in the library are also the major hurdles faced while accessing the required information.


Keywords

Information Seeking Behaviour, Journalists, Newspaper Journalists, Media Professionals, Karnataka State, India