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* Corresponding author
SEARCH Journal of Media and Communication Research
Online ISSN: 2672-7080 | Print ISSN: 2229-872X
© SEARCH Journal 2020
SEARCH 12(1), 2020, 63-77
http://search.taylors.edu.my
Using Giddens' structuration theory
to examine the contesting
participation of online mass
media's journalists in
Katadata.co.id framing
* Dimas Jarot Bayu
University of Indonesia
dimas.jarot@ui.ac.id
Endah Triastuti
University of Indonesia
ABSTRACT
Accuracy is a common and serious problem in online mass media, particularly in today’s fast-paced
news industry. By applying the arguments in structuration theory, this study examines agents within
the structure of the news industry, such that they function as both the medium and outcome of agency
formation, and how they intertwine with issues of public trust in online mass media. Using
Katadata.co.id as an instrumental case study from April to July 2019, this study suggests that the
emergence of data journalism potentially offers a solution to overcome the issue of accuracy within
the new structure of online news media. Using Giddens’ structuration theory, this study critically
analyses data journalism’s efficacy to enhance the accuracy of online news. The study concludes
that although data journalism provides financial benefits for Katadata.co.id, the website did not
demonstrate an ability to overcome the problem of inaccuracy, which is attributed to a lack of
adequate data analysis training, support and equipment among its journalists. Rather, Katadata.co.id
remains trapped in the typical structure of online mass media that sacrifices quality and prioritises
news quantity and speed to increase advertising revenues. On that basis, the researchers
recommend that Katadata.co.id improves its editorial structure to enhance the accuracy of its news.
Further research is suggested to examine the application of data journalism by other news websites
in Indonesia.
Keywords: data journalism, news accuracy, structuration, commercialism