MANSFIELD — We’ve always known that something unique is happening between Richland Source and our readers. Now, researchers want to study that relationship. 

In January, Richland Source was approached by researchers with the Center for Media Engagement at the University of Texas at Austin. The purpose was to partner with the Center for a project centering on solutions journalism. 

The Center has been working with the Solutions Journalism Network to test what impact different storytelling elements have on audience’s attitudes and engagement. Researchers believed stories from Richland Source’s several solutions-focused series could be a good fit for further exploration in this area.

Richland Source has been committed to practicing solutions journalism since 2016. Since then, we’ve published six solutions series and have been recognized in national publications for our efforts. 

And now, we’re partnering with the Center for Media Engagement to learn how to better serve you. To help us, please take a 5-10 minute survey to share your opinions about a news article from Richland Source.

Survey

Click here to take the survey.

For every reader who completes the survey, Richland Source will receive a $1 donation to further support our solutions journalism work.

The study is called “Reporting on Current Issues,” and is being conducted by Talia Stroud with the Communication Studies Department of The University of Texas at Austin.

According to its website, the Center for Media Engagement envisions a vibrant American news media that more effectively empowers the public to understand, appreciate, and participate in the democratic exchange of ideas.

“We work to accomplish this goal by testing web-based strategies for informing audiences, promoting substantive discourse, and helping citizens to understand diverse views,” the site states. “Systematic testing provides valuable information about what works, and what doesn’t. And by advancing both journalistic and business goals, the techniques are designed with contemporary newsrooms in mind.”

Your thoughts are very important to us, and we appreciate you taking the time to help strengthen our journalism. Thank you for your participation and for being a reader of Richland Source.

What's the impact of our reporting?

The Community Development Section is dedicated to reporting on the intersection of the private sector and public funding, economic development efforts, and community engagement. We want to know what impact our reporting is having. Please complete this short survey.

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Have you done any of the following as a result of a community development story published by Richland Source?*
Please select all that apply.
If you made a decision or took action, which of the following apply?*
Please select all that apply.
What is the primary emotion this story triggered?*

If so, please provide your name and contact email in the box below. We will only contact you about this project.

Community investment made this reporting happen. Independent, local news in Shelby and Northern Richland County is brought to you in part by the generous support of Phillips Tube Group, R.S. Hanline, ArcelorMittal, Lloyd Rebar, Hess Industries, and Shelby Printing.

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