Syllabus excerpt of the week

General approach of the course:

As a foundation course designed for journalism majors, you will be immersed in readings and practice. The major focus will be on reporting and that is what we will be doing from Day One. Be prepared to jump in right away with gathering news and writing. There will be lots of hands-on work in the classroom and outside of it, to be accompanied by readings from the textbook and outside sources. However, you are still expected to take notes in class and reflect on readings. You are responsible for your learning in this course and, just as real-world reporters do, you’ll need to take the initiative in creating your stories and projects. I will provide guidance throughout. I am available ANYTIME to answer questions directly related to reporting and IN ADVANCE of assignments. I am available during office hours or by appointment to answer questions about grades, absences, etc. I will call each of you in for an appointment at some point during the semester.



This class is unlike other classes in that you will be required to set up interviews with and talk to a lot of people outside the classroom. You’ll need to bring those experiences into the classroom. Get comfortable with all of that. We’ll also work in groups and we’ll critique each other’s work. All journalists get criticism and usually have to do rewrites. Get used to it! In addition, you will have to attend events outside the classroom. You will be interacting a great deal with the outside world. This means that you will need to budget your time. If all of your time is accounted for outside the classroom with jobs, internships, other course projects, social events and travel, you will not be successful in this course. Because of this course’s importance in your future career, it takes priority in your schedule.



Just as journalists these days must learn to contribute in print, broadcast and online, you will learn to operate “across platforms.” That means thinking in new ways about how to present stories and compete for audience attention. It also means experimenting with technology and taking time to hone skills outside the classroom.



This course will be on three tracks simultaneously: 1. gradual learning of fundamental journalistic and reporting skills based on the text book and in-class exercises and outside event coverage 2. exploration of new media/technology and developments in the industry via the Briggs book and your RSS feeds 3. your own reporting and use of digital skills in a longer term project.



This is an exciting time in journalism. I want you to bring your special insights and talents to the tasks of this course!