Abstract
In journalism, writing concisely is fundamental. Multimedia journalism demands even more writing precision. . . . In this quasi-experimental study (n = 113), we tested the effects of the paramedic method (PM) of writing instruction on multimedia writing students completing a broadcast-style news writing assignment. We hypothesized a reduction in word count and an increase in writing quality. Word counts decreased significantly. While the quality of writing did not significantly improve with the PM samples, the overall decrease in words did not lower the quality of writing. The results indicate an overall improvement in writing efficiency with little or no effect on the quality of the writing. This study unveils a unique approach to clarifying writing that can be implemented in the multimedia classroom and by professional journalists. The study shows significant results for lowering word count and an important aspect of multimedia writing.
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