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Digital Transformation and Media Policy in the MENA Region
  • ISSN: 2516-3523
  • E-ISSN: 2516-3531

Abstract

Data journalism, a concept widely developed in western contexts, has increasingly influenced the global media landscape, including the Arab world. However, its adoption in Jordan presents unique challenges due to systemic, cultural and institutional barriers. This study examines the usage, preferences, motivations and gratifications and challenges of data journalism among Jordanian journalists, employing a structured survey with 157 respondents from diverse media outlets. The findings reveal a limited reliance on data journalism, with journalists primarily using it to enhance writing skills and support stories with data-driven analysis. Despite recognizing its potential, many journalists cite inadequate training, restricted access to data and a lack of organizational support as significant hurdles. Respondents also showed minimal interest in using data journalism both professionally and personally, indicating a prevailing trend. Key motivations included staying updated on current events and simplifying complex information for audiences, while key gratifications focused on improving skills, enhancing professional experiences and tracking data more effectively. To address existing gaps and encourage broader adoption, our study suggests targeted training, improved data accessibility and the establishment of dedicated data journalism units.

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2025-05-31
2026-04-18

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/content/journals/10.1386/jdmp_00175_1
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Data journalism usages in the Middle East (Jordan): Practices, policies and challenges
Journal of Digital Media & Policy 16, 219 (2025); https://doi.org/10.1386/jdmp_00175_1
/content/journals/10.1386/jdmp_00175_1
/content/journals/10.1386/jdmp_00175_1
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  • Article Type: Article
Keyword(s): Arab data journalism; Arab journalists; Arab region; digital journalism; MENA; news media

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