Journalism+-+About

= Journalism 120 =

Students will observe that journalism is a two way street where information is continually transmitted and received. New technologies have made our world flat and have leveled the playing field. Where it once took days to break a story, it now takes minutes. If it is not immediate, it’s old news. We live in a world where a freelance individual can capture information and broadcast it live. In the spirit of communication, collaboration and cooperation, journalism students must understand that to compete in this profession they must be aware of the skills and techniques needed to get their story out there. Media based platforms are changing. Wikis, podcasts, blogs, websites, and RSS feeds are being used to publish and transfer information. Although we cannot be sure what the future holds for our students, it is clear that they will be living in a world governed by information. This is the literacy of today’s world.

= = =Connection to NB Curricula and Education Initiatives=

Literacy Outcomes
 * Make decisions regarding writing topics and generating story ideas
 * Make decisions regarding revising and editing
 * Write for reasons stemming from their own interests and needs
 * Make decisions regarding the form, content, audience, and purpose of their writing

Technology Outcomes
 * Employ a variety of technological tools, technical processes, and design strategies
 * Experience the use and management of a wide variety of technological systems
 * Build capability with technological systems and tools relevant to a variety of career choices
 * Assess risk and take responsibility for the consequences of their technological actions

All students will become acquainted with the essential elements of the inverted pyramid and summative news styles and then put theory into practice as they generate news stories. Students will work together to develop story ideas that are of general interest but no student will be prevented from following a particular interest or his or her own. Because of the immediacy of this kind of reporting, students will be encouraged to follow developing stories. Students will go on to create feature stories and editorials as well as cover the local sports scene. Peer editing will help students develop revision skills in dealing with their own work and analytical skills in dealing with others. Since the work will be published, students will have to make decisions in regard to form and content with regard for their audience. Various technical skills are expected to be aquired by students prior to graduation and here students will have the opportunity to use both Mac and PC systems, and a variety of software. Creative ideas will necessitate risk analysis as they decide how much time their can afford in experimentation.

This course gives students the opportunity to develop and explore their strengths while examining a host of skills that might lead to a career or life-long interest. Students may finish this module interested in exploring career options such as researcher, investigative reporter, broadcaster, author, freelance journalist, feature writer, podcaster, photojournalist, photographer, layout artist, technical writer, staff writer, graphic designer, copy editor, announcer, audio engineer, audiovisual technician, news analyst, multimedia writer, proofreader, internet entrepreneur, website network manager / administrator, visual and audio content producer, web managing editor, typist, or visual analytics specialist.