Changing Mass Communication in the Digital Environment

Among the forces of socialization and social construction of reality is the force of individual agency to contribute to culture. Croteau and Hoynes (2014) emphasize that new media may provide individuals with the tools to circumvent the mediation of the social world by, in particular, legacy mass media companies. The new media includes social networking, Twitter, and high-speed access to the Internet.
Select as a case study an example of using one of these new media, such as, Twitter, blogs, YouTube, etc., for the purpose of primary (original) newsgathering. Find an instance in which individuals “on the ground ” utilized a new media device and/or service to publish original newsgathering to mass audiences.
In a well-written paper, begin by explaining the circumstances of the event. Next, explain how the specific technology was used and how the event was reported by the device/technology/service. How is the news of the event distributed by the new media? Next, critically evaluate how or if new technology can supplant traditional mass media newsgathering. Is this a realistic goal, or is newsgathering a rarity for individuals with new media gadgets? Why?
Make sure to address the key issues of credibility and verifiability. Finally, identify the ways in which the “citizen reporter” is constrained by the structures of production and distribution of news.
Your paper must:
    Be 3-4 pages in length.
    Be well written.
    Include at least three references from the readings or outside sources, cited in proper APA style.