Course Outline and Course Description:
This course provides participants with a foundational understanding of journalism principles and practices. Attendees will develop essential skills in news gathering, writing, editing, and ethical considerations. The course will equip participants with the knowledge and tools to effectively communicate information to the public.
Course Objectives:
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
• Demonstrate a basic understanding of journalistic principles and ethics.
• Identify and gather news effectively.
• Write clear, concise, and accurate news stories.
• Edit and proofread their own work.
• Utilize various journalistic formats, including news articles, features, and interviews.
• Understand the role of media in society.
Course Format:
This course will be a combination of lectures, discussions, hands-on exercises, and guest lectures from experienced journalists. Participants will have opportunities to practice their skills through assignments and projects.
Course Outline
Module 1: Introduction to Journalism
• Definition and functions of journalism
• History of journalism
• Ethical considerations in journalism
• Types of journalism (news, feature, investigative, etc.)
Module 2: News Gathering
• Determinants of News
• Identifying news sources
• Observing and reporting events
• Researching information
• Using technology for news gathering (social media, databases, etc.)
Module 3: News Writing
• Elements of a news story (headline, lead, body, conclusion)
• Writing styles (inverted pyramid, chronological etc)
• AP Style
• Fact-checking and verification
Module 4: Editing and Proofreading
• Editing for fairness, objectivity, clarity, conciseness, and accuracy
• Proofreading for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation
• Using style guides (AP Style, Chicago Manual of Style)
Module 5: Feature Writing
• Characteristics of feature articles
• Types of feature stories (profile, human interest, expose, how-to)
• Techniques for writing engaging features
Module 6: Interviewing
• Preparing for interviews
• Conducting effective interviews
• Transcribing interviews
• Using quotes effectively
Module 7: News Formats
• Writing for different platforms (print, online, broadcast)
• Adapting content for various audiences
• Understanding multimedia journalism
Module 8: The Role of Media in Society
• Media’s influence on public opinion
• Media bias and objectivity
• Freedom of the press and censorship
• Challenges facing the media industry
Enrol here.