Journalism Studies Group

Journalism research in our group draws from the broad tradition of social sciences that is simultaneously interested in (a) media structures and systems, (b) journalistic work and editorial cultures, (c) the content and modes of presentation, and (d) the audience, and the role of journalism in their lives. The research group meets approximately once a month for a research seminar and other activities.

The different research themes and empirical research designs are united by the idea that journalism is a moving object of study that needs to be considered both in relation to history and to changing contexts (e.g. media economy, technology, legislation, politics and democracy, everyday life). Journalism is produced, transmitted, and consumed in an ever-changing and hybrid media environment, which is why collaboration with other disciplines is important.

The study of journalism often combines a practical and a critical approach to research. It assesses how journalism pursues widely accepted normative goals in society, such as the transmission of accurate information, supporting open public debate and increasing transparency in the exercise of power in society, and critically evaluates how it performs these tasks and suggests how it could perform better.

Journalism studies has a long-standing and central role at Tampere University, where a large proportion of Finnish journalists are trained. The results of the research are used in the teaching of degree students and in continuing education. A significant part of journalism research is carried out in cooperation with media organizations, journalists, and NGOs.