Dale Willman, executive editor of Field Notes Productions, explains how to use audio as a way to make your offerings stand out.

Survey results published in July 2008 show that scientist-journalist interactions "are more frequent and smooth than previously thought," according to the survey authors. Yet results also indicate that "science journalism is too tame, that is, that it is easily exploited by scientific sources."

Research suggests that the news media block or transform "beyond recognition" the aims of environmental and other activist groups. But a recent study suggests otherwise. It concludes that investigative journalists often are activists, but they stay within professional boundaries.

The key ingredient of credible daily journalism — the passion to make a difference — will lead to a bright future, no matter which medium delivers it.