Investigative Journalism - Module 1

A journalist who thoroughly researches and exposes hidden truths, often on corruption or wrongdoing.

A type of journalism concentrating on in-depth investigation of important topics and issues.

Curiosity, persistence, critical thinking, ethical integrity, and technical skills are crucial.

A UK-based nonprofit organization supporting investigative journalists.

Thorough investigation using multiple sources and fact-checking methods.

Asking 'why' and 'how' to dig deeper in uncovering stories

Continuing investigation despite time and difficulties

Adhering to high ethical standards.

Sting operations used to expose corruption or injustice, benefiting the public interest.

Sting operations that entrap individuals, deceive sources, or misrepresent the journalist.

Protecting sources' anonymity, especially in sensitive cases, to ensure their safety or job.

Publishing material that interferes with the legal process or prejudices a trial.

Publishing false information damaging someone's reputation.

Material supporting claims in investigative journalism, like documents, photos, or testimony.

Government or court documents available for investigative journalism.

Investigative journalists must consider individual privacy rights with the public's right to know.

A type of journalism focused on in-depth investigations of public interest issues.

Original materials like interviews and documents used for investigative work.

Existing information, like reports and news articles, in research.

Questions asked to gain insightful responses in interviews.

Verifying the accuracy of information in an investigation.

Publishing false information that harms someone's reputation.

A journalist focusing on in-depth investigations, not quick news.

Utilizing databases, records and social media to find information.

A massive leak of financial documents exposing offshore accounts used by prominent figures to hide wealth.

A political scandal involving a cover-up of a break-in, leading to the resignation of a U.S. President.

Careful noting of details, patterns, and inconsistencies to find story leads.

Building trust and confidentiality with sources over time to ensure reliable information.

Keeping track of progress, managing multiple sources, and adapting the direction of an investigative story.

Protecting sources legally and with security tools to maintain confidentiality.

Protecting investigative journalists from physical and psychological threats in dangerous environments.

Structuring a story with key points, sources, and evidence before writing.

Essential tools in investigative journalism, like court documents or financial records.

Protecting the identity of people who provide information to journalists, to avoid harm.

Publishing info that interferes with legal proceedings, against the law.

Publishing false info damaging someone's reputation; it's a legal issue.

Checking the accuracy and credibility of all information used to support a claim.

Documentary (contracts), testimonial (interviews), and physical (visuals) materials.

Paying close attention to small details for uncovering important story elements.

A plan for a story that details themes, angle, and key questions.

Protecting the identity of informants and sources; preserving anonymity to protect them from retaliation.

Organizing an investigative story into distinct sections focusing on gathering evidence and information for each part.

Employing encryption tools (like Signal or PGP) to safeguard communications with confidential sources.

Setting milestones and deadlines to maintain progress and ensure timely completion of an investigation.

Directly gathering data through interviews, public documents, and site visits.

Defining the purpose of the investigation (e.g., expose corruption, influence policy).

Establishing trust through open communication and building respectful relationships with sources.

Considering physical safety (especially in dangerous environments) and cybersecurity (protecting against hacking and surveillance).