Why Interactive Matters

By Anthony J. Calabrese

- Updated April 2010

Interactive is more than just a Web 2.0 buzzword heard in failing newsrooms across the country.  It is a way of thinking that is vital to the success of the next generation of writers, reporters, producers, and publishers.

On my first day as a student of interactive journalism at American University, I caused quite a stir in my class. During our introductions, I declared that “this” is what I want to do for the rest of my life.  My goal is to explain to you what “this” is. I want to tell you why “this” matters and I want to show you how thinking interactive can save journalism.