RESPONSIBLE PUBLICATIONS
Student reporter's ethical rules
Mobile Stories, in collaboration with the Media Ombudsman, has developed ethical rules for those who publish articles on Mobilestories.se. The rules are based on the Media Ethic Rules, but have been adapted for those who work with Mobile Stories. Please read through the rules from time to time. Eventually they will sit in the spine!
Stick to the truth!
* Avoid spreading rumors and misinformation. As far as possible, the creator of an article on Mobile Stories should verify that all the information published is correct. This also applies to images, which must not be distorted by image processing software such as Photoshop. Keep in mind that the truth requirement applies to written text, image, film and podcast. * Be critical of your sources.Check the facts as carefully as possible, even those previously published elsewhere. If possible: Go to the original source.* Distinguish between opinions and facts.It should be clear to the reader, viewer or listener what is fact-reporting and what is an opinion or comment. This is easiest to do by keeping the running text of an article neutral, while the opinions of the interviewees can be expressed in their quotes.* Let both sides be heard.If someone is criticised in an article, that person must be allowed to respond to the criticism. If an opinion is highlighted, it is important to also make room for the other side of the matter. * Keep your promises in your headline.The title should always have coverage in the text, movie, or podcast.
Respect the privacy of others!
* Don't publish things about others that you don't want anyone else to post about yourself. Also keep in mind that different people have different limits on where is perceived as offensive.
Exception: If the person is public and has a lot of power, such as a politician, you have more freedom to criticize. Criticizing, for example, an international celebrity is also less sensitive than criticizing an individual in your local environment.
* Always ask the people in the picture if they are okay with it. The exception is if you are in a public place – a square, a shopping street, festival or fair – where many people move.Consider whether you'd like to be in the picture or movie you want to publish.
* Do not emphasize the sexual orientation, religious identity or ethnic origin of persons in unless relevant in this context.
* Always have the interviewees review their quotes – if they ask for it.Always change if something is incorrect.
* Show special consideration if you take pictures or do interviews in connection with accidents or crimes. Don't interview people who are in shock. Don't photograph people who are injured. Keep the discussion alive about performance codes in the meeting with others in your role as student publicists!
Protecting copyright
* Never publish images, text, or sounds that you're not entirely sure you can use. If you have received permission, do not forget to write the author's name in connection with the material. If you found a free picture online – be sure to follow the terms of use.