Vox pop

press play The term "vox pop" means “voice of the people”. It comes from the Latin phase “vox populi” The vox pop is used to provide an insight into the public’s view, in other words, public opinion. Random people are asked to give their opinions and views on a particular topic and their responses are inputted into the media as a reflection of popular opinion. Interviewers normally approach people in the public/streets to catch their opinions. People will often feel nervous, flustered, giggly, or other awkward emotions. It's therefore important to make them feel comfortable and relaxed before interviewing them. When asking people to participate, being speedy and quick is the best way to catch their views because if you give them time to think then they will consider various factors, such as how they look or what their friends will think about their opinion. You would have to use a short, sharp standard question such as "Would you mind answering a couple of quick questions about genetically modified food for TV3 news tonight?” Also make sure that there is a mix of genders and races, appropriate to the population being surveyed. Example of how some vox pops can add interest to a news item on genetically modified foods: Journalist: "meanwhile, public opinion is still divided..." The following sequence is then inserted: "I think it will be better in the short term, but in the long run it will promote more diseases, some inherited ones like cancer or something like that." "I'd prefer not to have it, not to use any of it, but I'm not sure what's been altered and what hasn't." And more views. Source used: http://www.mediacollege.com/video/interviews/voxpops.html