Investigative Features

Definition

Investigative features are in-depth articles that focus on uncovering the truth behind a specific issue, event, or phenomenon through extensive research and interviews. These pieces often expose hidden details, challenge assumptions, and provide a comprehensive look at complex subjects, making them essential in feature storytelling. The goal is to inform and engage readers by revealing the deeper context and implications of a topic.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Investigative features typically require months of research and can involve multiple sources and forms of evidence to substantiate claims.
2. These articles often highlight social issues, corruption, or systemic problems that might be overlooked in standard reporting.
3. Investigative features aim to promote accountability by shining a light on wrongdoing and often lead to changes in policy or public awareness.
4. Writers of investigative features must ensure ethical standards are met, including fact-checking and verifying information from reliable sources.
5. The format of investigative features can vary widely but often includes storytelling techniques like narrative arcs and character development to engage readers.

Review Questions

• How do investigative features differ from traditional news articles in terms of research and depth?
  • Investigative features differ significantly from traditional news articles primarily in their depth of research and storytelling approach. While traditional news focuses on timely reporting of facts, investigative features delve into complex issues over extended periods, often requiring thorough interviews, data collection, and analysis. This allows for a richer narrative that provides context, challenges existing narratives, and presents findings that can lead to broader societal discussions.
• Discuss the ethical considerations that journalists must keep in mind when producing investigative features.
  • Journalists producing investigative features must adhere to strict ethical guidelines to maintain credibility and integrity. This includes ensuring accuracy through rigorous fact-checking, safeguarding the identities of sensitive sources, and avoiding conflicts of interest. Additionally, they must strive for fairness by presenting multiple viewpoints and acknowledging the impact their findings may have on individuals or communities involved. Ethical considerations are crucial as investigative work often exposes serious issues that can have far-reaching consequences.
• Evaluate the impact that investigative features have had on societal change and public policy over the years.
  • Investigative features have historically played a significant role in driving societal change and influencing public policy by exposing injustices and corruption. Notable examples include investigations into government misconduct, corporate malfeasance, or social issues like inequality. By bringing these issues to light, investigative journalism can mobilize public opinion, inspire grassroots movements, and lead to legislative reforms. This demonstrates the power of thorough investigative work not only in informing the public but also in fostering accountability among those in positions of power.

Related terms

Exposé: A journalistic piece that reveals shocking or hidden information, often about corruption, injustice, or wrongdoing.

Data Journalism: The practice of using data analysis and visualization to tell stories and uncover trends in journalism.

Long-form Journalism: A style of journalism that involves detailed storytelling, often spanning several pages or sections, providing in-depth analysis and context.