App for journalists: Pocket Reporter, for guiding trainee journalists through the newsgathering process

Credit: image by Pocket Reporter

What is it? A free app that helps young reporters and citizen journalists gather the necessary information for their story

Cost: Free

Devices: Android

How is it of use to journalists?

The app, developed by Code for South Africa and the Association of Independent Publishers, is designed to take journalists through the newsgathering process by asking them a series of questions, all designed to ensure they cover the essential information needed for their story.

Pocket Reporter is designed to help trainee reporters improve their newsgathering skills outside of their classroom or newsroom, and it can also be a useful tool for citizen journalists and freelancers.

Once downloaded, it can be used without an internet connection by reporters who are out in the field.

Want to try it for yourself?

Start by choosing from a variety of story templates which match your piece – these range from accidents to news conferences and protests.

Screenshots from Pocket Reporter

A series of questions tailored to that particular type of article will then appear on screen. Go through these one at a time to answer them in the boxes provided. You'll then be able to email the information to yourself to work on your story later, or send it directly to your news team.

The information you have gathered will remain private within the app unless you choose to share it, so if you're not covering breaking news, this will enable you to go back and add to your material over time, if needed.

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