Keeping Up with the Technologies: Distressed Journalistic Labor in the Pursuit of “Shiny” Technologies

Abstract

ABSTRACT Journalism has taken a technological turn, as reflected in industry narratives that suggest innovation is key to a strong financial future. This pursuit of technological innovation is consistent with Bourdieu’s field theory, which suggests the journalistic field wants to re-assert its power and ward off threats from neighboring fields by increasing cultural capital through the acquisition of technological expertise and innovation. This study examined how journalists have responded to the push for technological upskilling. Based on a survey of 226 U.S. journalists, we found that some emerging technologies are not utilized as often and are not as highly valued as industry narratives suggest. Journalists were most motivated to learn new technologies to improve their employability; yet, they found it hard to keep up. Journalists also believed traditional skills, such as writing and interviewing, were more important to their jobs than digital technology skills. This study thus builds on research suggesting a gap exists between discourse emphasizing technology as a savior of the industry’s future, and the day-to-day practices of most journalists. We find a need to more critically reflect upon the realities of technology adoption and use and their connection to journalism's mission.