Abstract:
The main objective of this research, titled ‘Data-Driven Narratives and Civic Engagement: Examining the Institutional Barriers to Data Journalism in Newspaper Industry in Sri Lanka’, is to investigate the use of Data Journalism in the Sri Lankan newspaper industry and the institutional, educational and technological factors that influence its implementation. The study was based on a quantitative research methodology. Data were collected from 80 journalists (5 journalists from each newspaper) from 16 newspaper institutions using a formally prepared questionnaire based on a snowball sampling method. The collected Data were analyzed using Descriptive Statistics, Cross-tabulation, Chi-square, ANOVA and Multiple regression using SPSS software. The results revealed that although the majority of the journalists in the sample had an educational background related to Journalism, their educational qualifications were insufficient to implement Data Journalism in practice. In particular, the lack of support from media institutions for training opportunities, the lack of dedicated units in media institutions to implement Data Journalism, and the lack of technical knowledge among journalists were identified as the main obstacles to the development of Data Journalism in newspaper institutions. The results of ANOVA and multiple regression analysis confirmed that there was a statistically significant effect (p < 0.05) between the parameters related to organizational structure (especially the presence of Data Journalism units and project involvement). Thus, the findings indicate that institutional backing plays an integral role in the practice of Data Journalism. Moreover, the positive relationship between proficiency in Data analytic tools and utilization of Data visualization techniques shows that the development of technical skills also plays a significant role. In conclusion, the present study shows that Data Journalism in Sri Lanka does not rely only on individual interest and education; it is also affected by other factors including institutions, technical skills, and opportunities for training. Hence, a structured program, technical training, and open Data availability should be created at the institutional level for practicing Data Journalism.
