From data to reality -

Introduction

The COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic has brought health and medical issues into the consciousness of many people around the world. For newsrooms, it has brought into sharp focus the importance of specialist knowledge among journalists, whether they are general news reporters or subject matter experts.  

COVID-19 has to a certain degree overshadowed other infectious diseases. In the Asia Pacific region, preventable and treatable infectious diseases such as hepatitis B and C, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the human papillomavirus (HPV), and tuberculosis (TB) are imposing a huge economic and social cost to some developing countries. 

Besides stigma and ignorance, a lack of infrastructure, inadequate surveillance systems, insufficient funding and a lack of political will are preventing the elimination of these diseases. Screening and diagnosis which can help address the strain these illnesses have on public health systems are also often overlooked and undervalued. 

Data journalism and specifically data visualisation offers a fascinating opportunity for storytelling that is driven by facts, and leverages a powerful cognitive advantage of the brain in processing visual information. It  sheds light on complex issues in an effective way to attract readers and help them understand the key points of a story using measurable facts. Data visualisation is a potent and useful  tool in any journalist’s toolbox to tell science-based stories. 

Join this masterclass to innovate the way you cover public health issues. Learn how data journalism combined with visual and interactive storytelling can help journalists engage with their audiences and drive social impact.

Bahasa Indonesia simultaneous interpretation will be available in this webinar.