In a world where information flows rapidly and boundaries between truth and misinformation blur, investigative journalism stands as a cornerstone for fostering transparency, accountability, and an informed citizenry. From exposing corruption to unveiling systemic injustices, investigative journalists serve as societal watchdogs, scrutinizing the powerful and amplifying the voices of the marginalized.
Following the first successful collaboration in 2024, the Global Investigative Journalism Network and iMEdD’s educational pillar, Ideas Zone, are coming together again to offer a unique program designed specifically for journalists and reporters with little or no experience in investigative journalism.
This training program aims to equip reporters globally with the skills necessary to navigate the intricacies of investigative journalism, enabling them to uncover hidden truths and shed light on issues that resonate across diverse beats and topics. It aspires to equip reporters globally with the skills necessary to navigate the intricacies of investigative journalism and will help them in the future unravel hidden truths and shed light on issues that resonate across diverse beats and topics.
The objective is to empower journalists to undertake thorough investigations, fostering a media environment where truth prevails, and the public remains informed and engaged. By the end of this program, journalists will be equipped with the tools and know-how to conduct their own investigations.
The course curricula will be delivered online through 10 hands-on practical sessions, in two different cohorts (one starting May and one starting October), led by some of the world’s leading investigative journalism trainers. Fellows will also be assigned a mentor and will have the opportunity to discuss their work with them.
Course Details
The course is free and limited to 20 participants per cohort, selected through one open call launched in February. Online classes will take place each Tuesday and Thursday for five consecutive weeks at 9AM EST, lasting three hours each. See what time it is in your country here.
If granted a place in the cohort, applicants are required to attend all sessions. Trainers might provide homework, and all participants will be expected to complete it.
The estimated time commitment is at least seven hours a week. Applicants must be proficient in understanding and reading English.
Eligibility Criteria
Priority will be given to journalists who can demonstrate five years of experience in journalism, but have very little or no experience in investigative journalism. Fellows with no professional journalism experience aren’t eligible. Selection will be based on the quality of the application and the level of work submitted, ensuring diversity.
Topics Covered in the Training Sessions Include:
- Introduction to Investigative Journalism
- Finding Sources (People & Documents)
- Collaborating across-borders
- Interviewing Techniques & Pitching
- Open Source Research
- Follow the Money
- Developing a Data Set of Mind
- Digital Security
- Fact-Checking
- Editing
Apply here. The deadline is March 6 at midnight US EDT.
Questions?
If you have any questions, please send us an email at [email protected]
