Citizen Journalism
Several key components make up the history of citizen journalism in the mediasphere. Citizen journalism is the practice when ordinary people, often using digital tools, report news and share information about events or issues in their communities. With the rise of social media and smartphone use in general, this form of journalism continues to grow in the mediasphere. 
Outside of big news outlets like the New York Times or ABC, citizen journalism is for individuals who usually report events in communities before big news outlets even hear about it. An example of this would be when John F. Kennedy was assassinated; the most famous video was from a citizen that was present before news outlets could even arrive let alone report actual content.
Looking at the evolution of citizen journalism, as society changes, so does the way individuals are participating in this type of journalism.
Prior to the creation of the internet, individuals would publish pamphlets and use the radio to spread news. Especially in the 1960s through 1970s, community radio stations emerged and were filled with local stories that you wouldn't hear from the mainstream media.
In the 1990s, search engines like Google gained popularity, as did online blogs and forums. Personal blogs consist of the reporting of news and opinions on community events. Online discussion boards were a place where information was exchanged and reported.
In the early 2000s social media became a massive deal. When Facebook, Twitter and Youtube sparked public popularity, and transformed citizen journalism. Users in social media share real-time updates, photos, and videos from anywhere in the world. In times like Hurricane Katrina or the Indian ocean earthquake and tsunami, bloggers and photographers gave on-the-ground updates when news outlets couldn't cover.
Key characteristics of citizen journalism would include accessibility, speed, diverse perspectives and community engagement. Anyone with internet access can report and share news making it very inclusive, real time updates can occur especially for breaking news, citizen journalists bring attention to local issues enriching all voices, and with community engagement it brings active participation.
A problem with citizen journalism can be the lack of factual content being shared, so there has been a continuous effort to verify and fact check citizen generated content, as well as a question of ethical standards and guidelines for journalists.
The thing about citizen journalism is it can be done by any, when it comes to online reporting, this likely attracts more of a younger audience, or those who are tech savvy.
As citizen journalism continues to evolve, there is a permanent role it has in sharing information. It has the potential to share voices that would not always be heard, and provide unique insights on topics in the mediasphere. Empowering citizens to share their thoughts enhances society as a whole.
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