Blog Post #1 Top Five Sources of News and Information

In today's day and age, there are a multitude of issues and events happening all around the world every day. With the rise of new technology and social media, we have access to new information right at our fingertips. News media plays a huge role in our society, it has the power to inform, educate, and convince us to take action. The primary goal of news sources is to present issues in a neutral and unbiased manner. Growing up, my family always taught me the importance of staying informed of changing issues and events happening in our world today. Moreover, staying informed helps broaden our perspective and provides us with opportunities to stay engaged with the world around us. 

1. Apple News 

Apple News provides me a convenient opportunity to stay up to date on important news and information every day. The app itself includes news stories from a wide variety of sources to choose from. Such as  Additionally, I get notifications on my phone throughout the day of recent events happening locally and globally. There is even an option to personalize your news feed that compliments your interests and the sources you trust the most. 

2. ABC News

With our world constantly changing, and multiple events happening at once. ABC News provides me with a neutral and unbiased source to inform myself on key issues happening in our world today. If there is an issue I don't understand or want to know more about, ABC News is my go-to. When you first click on the website, you have the option to choose from a variety of trending news topics and sections such as travel, regional news, global news, politics, health, entertainment, sports, business, technology, and food. Furthermore, what stands out to me about this news source is the option to watch the live streams right from your personal device. 

3. TikTok 

Studies show that TikTok as a news source has become more popular, it is proven that 1 in every 10 adults use it as a source to keep up with recent news. The app consists of several short 10-15-second videos ranging from silly topics to full-on news stories. I have found that I learn something new each time I open the app, most importantly, it has given me the opportunity to stay informed on important news topics happening in today's world. Most recently, several videos have shown up on my feed about the Hamas attack on Israel. While it is heartbreaking to see the loss and trauma these communities have experienced, staying informed on the current world has encouraged me to stay educated and to look into what can be done to support these communities. 

4. Instagram

Instagram is another form of social media that is used to gather news information. According to a survey done by Reuters report, it was found that Instagram reaches 11% of people of all ages for news. The survey consisted of results from 12 countries, including Australia. While many would think that the sole purpose of the app is to post pictures with friends. Instagram is also a great opportunity to stay informed as well as share that information with others. Many accounts are dedicated only to news, where they post infographics and provide helpful links to donate to certain communities. What sticks out to me the most about these accounts is that they put an effort into communicating information in a way that is impactful and understandable. 

5. Word of Mouth

One of the most common ways I get my news information is word of mouth. According to the Pew Research Center, it has been reported that 55% of adults get local news and information through friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues. Every day, I am constantly being informed by my family and friends of recent events that have happened locally and globally. This has also given me the opportunity to discuss my stance and opinion on certain topics with others.