Delineating the concept of (digital) slow journalism and its future through an international Delphi study

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study seeks to evaluate the current status of journalism and digital slow journalism and identify its future challenges. A Delphi method has been used, with international experts responding to a qualitative questionnaire. This methodological technique is used to analyze experts’ perceptions regarding one subject of study and detect future tendencies. In this particular case, an iterative process was conducted in two waves, with 28 professionals and academics from different continents (North America, South America, Europe and Australia), to stimulate a critical debate about digital slow journalism. The most prominent result of the study is that slow journalism is understood as more critical, contrasted and contextualized than fast journalism. The participants of the study believe there is a need for the truthful and quality information offered by slow journalism and narrative journalistic genres. Additionally, the findings indicate that the future of slow journalism involves the incorporation of new multimedia content and formats into its practice. This is particularly important if slow journalism is to be adapted to digital consumption demands. In this direction, future audience investigations will be key to offer readers better experiences and narrative styles.