I thought that I had what it would take to be an investigative reporter. I watch CSI and can beat the deadline when playing the game, What's the Difference. Boy, was I wrong! I possess several deficiencies that would prevent me from ever getting my foot in the door. In my opinion, David Biscobing is the rock star of reporting. The fact that he possess the tenacity to follow a lead to the end of the investigation in reference to the mental hospital scandal was ingenious.
It is hard to believe that this breakthrough started with a single email tip that has led to the scrutiny of the program. I have to believe that whoever sent the email knew that Biscobing had the reputation to get things done. It took six months for the piece to et to television, and when it did, Arizona state officials had to take notice.
Biscobing had several good tips about how to make his job easier. "Maintain professionalism," Biscobing said. It was obvious that his interview was making people uncomfortable. One worker went into the restroom to get away from being interviewed. When he walked out, Biscobing was still there. As the clip showed the person walking into another part of the building, Biscobing did not pressure the person but allowed him to continue on his way. There were no negative comments made about the person's lack of participation. This was a valuable lesson about not pressing one's will over the will of another.
The second tip was to do the research. "Request public records," Biscobing said. It is in the best interest of all involved to ensure that all information is correct. One must not negate the importance of public records in the research process.
A third tip requires that the investigator documents all actions. Of course, Biscobing has been reported for his accurate investigations of his tips. His documentation of how he developed the story has prevented lawsuits and firings.
I used to wonder about becoming an investigative reporter. For now, I think that I will keep my day job!
Cynthia Brown
Woodland High School
Stockbridge, Georgia
I think most of my students are honestly intimidated by the idea of investigative journalism while others are totally gung-ho at the idea of uncovering the world's wrongs. I think challenging them to "dig deeper" into the issues they report on, to request public records, to ask hard questions, even, and maybe especially if they are out of students' - and sources'- comfort zones, may be the way to go here.
ReplyDeleteIn fact, I often tell my students that I want them to get out of their comfort zones every once in a while until it's not out of their comfort zone at all anymore. That's when I feel I'm winning and my students are actually getting somewhere.
Stephanie Floch
Taylorsville High School
SLC, Utah
I knew David would be good, but he was just amazing. His passion for investigative journalism and holding those in power accountable is infectious.
ReplyDeleteSteve Elliott
Arizona State University
Phoenix