Peripheral Science Journalism: Scientists and Journalists Dancing on the Same Floor

ABSTRACT

This study identifies the journalistic features of four Israeli science-news websites and suggests a conceptual framework for describing and analyzing different channels of science communication. Findings show how these websites, while employing scientists as reporters, adopt journalistic practices in producing, presenting, and disseminating science news on various topics. Based on these findings, it is suggested to add to the traditional dichotomic classification of direct and mediated channels of science communication, a third entity we name “Peripheral science-journalism.” Another insight that comes out of the findings is that amateur journalists’ contribution to journalism and society should be evaluated by addressing the practices they employ and the product they provide rather than their personal, professional, or institutional affiliation.

KEYWORDS:

• Science journalism
• science news
• peripheral journalism
• amateur journalists
• journalistic practices
• science communication

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported by the Ministry of Science & Technology of The State of Israel (grant number 3-15725).