Print Is Future, Online Is Past

Cross-Media Analysis of Temporal Orientations in the News

Bibliographic Data

ID7510014
AuthorsK Tenenboim-Weinblatt (0000-0001-9268-3969, Hebrew University of Jerusalem), Motti Neiger (0000-0003-0639-607X, Netanya Academic College)
Year2014
Volume42
Issue8
Pages1047-1067
Publication date2014-11-21
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueCommunication Research (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0093-6502 • E-ISSN: 1552-3810
PublisherSAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US)
DOI10.1177/0093650214558260
OpenAlexW2024969307
LanguageEN
Citations received38
References cited54

This article examines the representation of past, present, and future in print and online news, while establishing a link between the temporal orientation of news stories and the constraints of the news cycle. Based on a content analysis of top news stories in the Israeli media, the study shows that a future temporal orientation is more prevalent in print media, which assume the role of projecting upcoming events, analyzing potential outcomes, and shaping collective expectations. In contrast, online news tends to assume the more commonly recognized journalistic role of informing the public on recent-past events. The discussion introduces the notion of “temporal affordances,” referring to the temporal constraints and possibilities of media technologies, which in turn can lead to distinctive content characteristics. These affordances, which connect symbolic and material dimensions, contribute to the shaping and reshaping of the functions served by divergent communication outlets in changing media landscapes

Affordance · Digital media · Dynamics (music · Human–computer interaction · Media studies · News media · Newspaper · Political science · Politics · Print media · Representation (politics · Sociology · World Wide Web · Computer Science · Media Studies and Communication · Public Relations and Crisis Communication · Social Media and Politics