AMU1328 - Introduction to journalism - 2018

The unit provides a critical introduction to the development of key journalistic concepts, research and practices in the production of original news stories in the print and online formats. This includes the social, professional and legal contexts for journalism production; the technical production and conventional narrative styles of news production for print and online journalism. The unit also examines two different formats of news production and the various factors that can affect the optimal choice of medium for reporting. Students will produce a critical evaluation of their own performance and provide constructive feedback for their peers.

Upon successful completion of the unit, students will be able to:

1. demonstrate an ability to identify and research a news story, conduct interviews and gather appropriate evidence in the print and online media;
2. demonstrate an ability to select an advantageous medium for presentation, and report in a clear, concise and factual way using news conventions in at least two media;
3. identify, observe key ethical and legal obligations associated with print and online journalism, 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 print and online journalism;
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 affairs and media issues;
7. demonstrate a critical awareness of the capacities, limitations and socio-professional implications of journalistic practices in different media.

Students may be required to go on at least one domestic fieldtrip

Within semester assessment: 100%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Journalism studies