Class Response: Forum

   In regards to the 10 elements of journalism, Forum refers to a safe, inclusive space for consumers to leaver their questions or concerns. Usually, it comes in the form of a chat room below an article in a website, or a mailing address to leave complaints. That's all well and good, but with the growing use of social media, is there even a need for an inserted forum anymore?

   NPR has recently turned their comments off. Because of NPR's size and notoriety, I expect other companies to follow suit. But why? Well, with sites like Twitter and Facebook, and even email, it's easier than ever to message a company with a complaint.  In addition, comments sections are known for the ignorant and insensitive trolls that lurk there. In fact, I would venture to say that most comments aren't constructive, and don't contribute anything positive at all.

   Not to say that social media is a perfect solution, they have their fair share of trolls as well. But in this day and age, it is the more popular and practical option to use social media than the provided forum. No we can add Forum to the list of things completely transformed by the existence of the internet.