Adapting to the Digital Landscape: A Phenomenological Study of How Journalists Reshape Their Professional Identity and Practices

Abstract

As an information gateway for the public, journalists now face the demand for speed in conveying information. Information and communication technology advances have changed how people access and consume news. Today's audience needs information that is fast and accessible anytime through various digital platforms. Through a phenomenological approach, this research aims to understand what journalists mean and how they experience professionalism in the digital era. Using qualitative research methods, data were collected through in-depth interviews with informants from ten mainstream online media in Jakarta, Indonesia. Interviews are conducted face-to-face and virtually. The collected data was analyzed using the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) phenomenological method. The study results show that journalists' professionalism in the digital era is no longer only interpreted traditionally, but journalistic values remain an essential foundation. The professionalism of journalists now demands adaptation and self-adjustment to the ever-changing digital landscape. The development of the digital landscape has led to a significant transformation in the profession of journalism. Journalists' professional identities, journalistic practices, and adaptation strategies have changed and restructured to adapt to the demands of the rapidly evolving digital environment. The findings of this study are expected to provide insight into the dynamics of journalism professionalism in the digital era. They can be a reference for developing more adaptive journalism policies and practices to change.