"Ofcom has identified three features not currently captured under the existing regulatory framework that may present a risk to media plurality: online intermediaries and their algorithms control the prominence they give to different news sources and stories; the basis on which online intermediaries serve news via their algorithms is not sufficiently transparent; consumers do not always critically engage with the accuracy and partiality of online news. As part of this work, Ofcom commissioned Ipsos UK to conduct qualitative research to help them understand people’s experiences, attitudes, and expectations around online news consumption. The research explored how well people understand the role of online intermediaries in determining the sources and types of news stories they see, how people critically assess online news stories, and whether exposure to a wide range of sources and viewpoints matters to them. Methodology: The research used a longitudinal design which combined online diaries with reconvened online deliberative workshops across four stages. This design enabled the complexity of how online intermediaries work and low levels of understanding around personalisation and media plurality rules to be fully considered, deliberated and reflected upon. Participants were given information about online intermediaries, personalisation (including the use of algorithms and choice architecture), and media plurality to help take them on a journey from spontaneous views to informed citizens." (Introduction, page 4)