Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit provides a critical introduction to the key concepts and practices of research and reporting for news journalism; the social, professional and legal context for journalism production; the technical production and narrative conventions for at least two different media (print, online, radio and/or video). Students research and produce original news stories to deadline in at least two media, produce a critical evaluation of their own performance and constructive feedback for their peers.

Objectives

On successful completion of this course students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an ability to conceptualise what a news story could be, and identify and research a news story, conduct interviews and gather appropriate evidence.
2. Demonstrate an ability to report in a clear, concise, factual way using news conventions in at least two media.
3. Identify, observe key ethical and legal obligations associated with news reporting, and reflect critically on their own and others' performance in this regard
4. Work independently and collaboratively in learning and production processes, including online forums, to produce news reports.
5. Demonstrate an ability to set and meet deadlines, and report under pressure
6. Demonstrate an awareness of local, national and international people and events relevant to current issues and media issues.
7. Demonstrate a critical awareness of the capacities, limitations and socio-professional implications of journalistic practices in different media

Assessment

Minimum requirement: attendance and participation as specified in the Unit Guide for the mode of delivery.+ Minor assignment (research brief - 500 words): 10%
Brief news report(900 words or 3 minutes audio/video) in specified medium: 30%
Brief news report (900 words or 3 minutes audio/video) in specified medium: 30%
Online and in-class invigilation: 30%

Chief examiner(s)

William Birnbauer

Contact hours

1-hour lecture per week + 2-hour tutorial per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Journalism