News Presenters and Journalists' Use of Media Convergence Tools in Satisfying Audience Needs: A Scoping Review

Abstract

This scoping review synthesizes existing literature to identify media convergence tools in use, the broadcast strategies adopted by news presenters and journalists, and the audience needs addressed by these practices. Based on the JBI methodological guidelines on the PRISMA ScR framework and Arksey and O'Malley’s scoping review steps, this study synthesizes 62 empirical articles published between 2020 and 2024. Automated searches were conducted across multiple databases (Scopus, Google Scholar, EBSCO, and CNKI). Synthesizing past research, this review found that current media convergence tools used by news presenters and journalists fall into four main categories: cross-platform publishing, cross-platform interactivity, the use of digital technologies (VR studios, AI anchors, algorithmic assistance), and live online streaming. The use of these tools by presenters and journalists can meet audience needs to varying degrees. Cognitive, affective, and interactive needs are the most prominent, while social and stress-relieving needs are relatively secondary. Some studies have also mentioned that educational and trust needs are also being met. Additionally, the research gap regarding how to further promote media practitioners' adaptation in the current media convergence environment could serve as a direction for future studies.