Datenjournalismus in Deutschland

Data journalism is increasingly practiced and taught in journalism schools. The present study attempts to describe empirical data journalism in Germany for the first time in its fundamentals. The question is whether a new type of journalism is emerging. The study here is concerned in particular with the role models of data journalists. The investigation is based on the structural functionalist role theory. Structured interviews with 35 data journalists served as an empirical data base. We found that their role and activity profile differs in various dimensions compared to the average journalist in Germany. While the information function of journalists scored relatively low, the criticism and control function was particularly pronounced. The self perception was also strongly marked by allowing readers and users new opinions and to communicate new trends and ideas.