THE NEW ERA OF THE SAUDI JOURNALISM “FROM CENTRALIZED TO DECENTRED PRACTICE”: WHO IS THE JOURNALIST?

Abstract

This dissertation is directed towards investigating the evolvement of the definition of the journalist and journalism. Moreover, the journalist and journalism definition has been both a problematic and elusive topic since the arrival of digital media in the 1990s. As journalism evolves from a traditional to a virtual format, it is becoming increasingly difficult to identify the journalist across social media platforms. Therefore, research in the journalism literature must consider the new era of technology, which challenges established definitions of journalism. Additionally, prior studies have emphasised the importance of providing the most appropriate definition for journalism for empowering reporters to collect and publish news. Thus, this dissertation examines the increasing use of digital journalism in Saudi Arabia and its impact on news organisations and professional journalistic practices. The research focuses on two major social media platforms: Twitter and YouTube, the most popular social media platforms among youth in Saudi Arabia. The research aims to answer the question "who is a journalist?" in this era of digital and social media journalism, as well as the emergence of citizen journalism. Additionally, the study examines the public sphere regarding how Saudis use and engage with social media to explore sports news. The data was gathered through reflective journal entries, a series of interviews with key stakeholders, an examination of a few YouTube channels, and a follow-up on their Twitter accounts. Finally, the study was conducted qualitatively.