Exploring Journalistic Practices amongst Disaster Journalists in Thailand's Digital Age

Abstract

        The purpose of this research was to explore the influence of digital technology on disaster journalistic practices in Thailand, while also examining how disaster journalists adopt digital technologies in the disaster news production process. The study used qualitative data gathering through in-depth interviews and observation of a training workshop regarding disaster reporting organized by The Thai Journalist Association. Twelve Thai journalists with experience in reporting disasters on TV for more than five years were interviewed, employing the thematic analysis (TA) method. Two main categories were identified; the first being the journalistic format practices employed in the Thai media, comprised of four main aspects. The second category is the journalistic content practices, comprised of five facets. These findings reflect that the digital era has provided major influential changes in technology that have affected the news production process covering disasters, akin to the concept of technological determinism. Additionally, the highly competitive environment or market-driven state of the Thai media sphere and corporate policy has contributed significantly to changes in journalistic practice in both news content and presentation format. In this sense, it reflects the idea of “soft technological determinism”, which suggests that technological advancements can present new opportunities and capabilities. However, the extent of their influence on society also depends on how communities interact with these technologies. At this point, it can be argued that while digital technology may not exercise absolute dominion over all aspects, we cannot disregard its substantial impact on shaping the field of disaster journalism.