Programme of Study Catalogue

Objectives:

On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
Identify appropriate sources and relevant angles for timely features for magazines (print and online).
Demonstrate an ability to identify relevant sources and interview effectively, also identifying relevant information and direct quotes.
Produce the appropriate writing style, content and structure for magazine articles.

Content:

This module provides the basic building blocks of magazine writing and content for different platforms. Students will learn how features are sourced, how to assess and evaluate different types of sources and how to use information to write articles for print and online. They will learn and practise journalistic interviewing techniques. The sessions will be partly classroom-based workshops but will include live reporting and students will build a portfolio covering key skills.

Learning and Teaching Information:

This module is taught via a series of interactive workshops which use innovative and creative teaching methods in order to foster student engagement and develop practical skills. We will use some formal taught material, discussion, real-life scenarios in class, practising writing from prepared and real-life material and using online and social media platforms. The focus is on student-centred practice, using a broad range of simulated and live news exercises which allow the cohort to use their practical skills in a safe environment where they benefit from tutor feedback and mentoring on an on-going basis. Formative feedback will be a high priority throughout Semesters 1 & 2.

Workshops/supervision
Hours: 40
Intended Group Size: Cohort

Guided independent study
Hours: 160

Further details relating to assessment
Portfolios 1 & 2 These will typically cover six key competencies and will be compiled, respectively, during Semesters 1 and 2.

Assessment:

001 Directed activities throughout the year 10%
002 Portfolio 1 x 2000 word equiv end of semester 1 45%
003 Portfolio 2 x 2000 word equiv end of semester 1 45%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Julian Cole
Level - 4
Credit Value - 20
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 4YL