experiment . Indeed , in their early days they really did seem to achieve all that Rusbridger wished – considered discussions and debate between journalists and readers that was both civil and productive . However , no media can be static . The nature of the internet began to change : to begin with a relative small people had access a small amount of the time . Then increasing numbers of people had access , then people had access for more of the time , and then people had access wherever they were . This was not the same medium those early journalists imagined with their idealistic myths .
It could also be argued that society has changed . People ’ s views have gradually become more polarised , and more people feel freer to express their views . The impact this has had on participatory media can seem “ toxic ”, but it is perhaps simply a reflection of the way people choose to have civil discourse at this present time . In the future , it is possible this will change , and perhaps BTL comment sections will face a resurgence .
In the meantime , participatory journalism has found a new home in social media , and the Guardian continues to adapt to manage this newer media and its influence . As early as 2009 the Guardian encouraged its journalists to engage with readers on Twitter , allowing them unusual editorial independence in the constant pursuit of new forms of open journalism ( Rusbridger , 2009 ). Journalists have expressed their preference for Twitter as a platform when responding to their audience , and its relative usefulness for gaining ideas and sources for articles ( Wright et al ., 2020 ).
How long social media will be considered a useful tool for participatory journalism remains to be seen . A thorough consideration of BTL comments at the Guardian has demonstrated how media forms ebb and flow , requiring constant adaptation to remain afloat amongst social , cultural and technological changes . However , the impact of those early days of online interactive journalism can still be seen in the Guardian ’ s core value of openness , which continues to influence strategic decisions and priorities to this day . Journalists may not have uncovered the mythical utopia of reciprocal , participatory journalism in the first 20 years of being online , but there is every possibility that future changes , adaptations and advances will bring the Guardian closer and closer to that ideal . If only for a moment .
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