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Lucinda D. Davenport,
Jeremy Steele,
Eric Freedman,
David Poulson,
Joe Grimm,
and
Joanne C. Gerstner
You will learn about the career paths that are available in journalism, and what opportunities the skill sets of a journalist can offer in other fields. You will explore areas such as being an international correspondent, self-publishing in journalism, as well as how to freelance in the field. You will be empowered to develop your own path in journalism, from being an active and informed consumer, to being a journalist.
Read more
You will learn about the career paths that are available in journalism, and what opportunities the skill sets of a journalist can offer in other fields. You will explore areas such as being an international correspondent, self-publishing in journalism, as well as how to freelance in the field. You will be empowered to develop your own path in journalism, from being an active and informed consumer, to being a journalist.
Read more
You will learn about the career paths that are available in journalism, and what opportunities the skill sets of a journalist can offer in other fields. You will explore areas such as being an international correspondent, self-publishing in journalism, as well as how to freelance in the field. You will be empowered to develop your own path in journalism, from being an active and informed consumer, to being a journalist.
The worlds of business, communications, politics, education and marketing all utilize elements of journalism. This course also examines how to keep the trust of audiences through ethical, and responsible, journalistic practices. Sometimes, journalists need to be aware of their own safety. We will intelligently discuss how journalists around the world handle pressure, threats and other dangers while doing their jobs.
Journalism - and journalists - are agents of change. Are you ready to become one too?
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/t73s9y/journalism
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What's inside
Syllabus
Welcome to the Michigan State School of Journalism
You will learn about journalism profession, the Michigan State University School of Journalism, our world-class faculty and the world-class atmosphere of Michigan State University. We are proud to have Pulitzer-prize winning journalists, distinguished authors and broadcasters, and award-winning scholarly faculty all part of our Michigan State Journalism family. We are a special place, where amazing things happen every day.
Read more
Syllabus
Welcome to the Michigan State School of Journalism
You will learn about journalism profession, the Michigan State University School of Journalism, our world-class faculty and the world-class atmosphere of Michigan State University. We are proud to have Pulitzer-prize winning journalists, distinguished authors and broadcasters, and award-winning scholarly faculty all part of our Michigan State Journalism family. We are a special place, where amazing things happen every day.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Helps learners gain awareness of the various opportunities that journalism provides in other fields
Strengthens learners' foundations for careers in journalism
Helps learners explore freelance journalism
Introduces learners to ethical and responsible practices in journalism
Helps learners develop strong decision-making skills in journalism
Taught by instructors who are recognized for their work in journalism
Save this course
Create your own learning path.
Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary
Overview of future journalism careers
Learners say this course offers a solid introduction to the field of journalism, particularly highlighting its strength in discussing journalistic ethics and navigating tough calls. Many found the content on the evolving landscape and future of journalism thought-provoking. Reviewers appreciate it as a good starting point, especially for those considering a career in the field. However, some students noted that the course tends to stay at a high level and lacks depth in specific areas like practical skills or freelancing, making it better suited for beginners than those seeking advanced training. A few felt parts of the "future" content were a bit speculative or potentially dated given the rapid changes in the industry.
Content is mostly relevant but some parts may feel dated.
"An excellent overview of the evolving landscape of journalism."
"The 'future of journalism' section was interesting but perhaps a little speculative."
"Disappointing. The content felt a bit dated in parts, especially regarding the 'future' of journalism which is changing so rapidly."
"I found the course content on the future of journalism thought-provoking."
Best for newcomers or those seeking a broad overview.
"...it serves as a solid introduction."
"...maybe good for absolute beginners..."
"It's a good starting point..."
"Highly recommend for anyone considering this field."
Deeply explores journalistic ethics and dilemmas.
"The module on ethics was particularly strong and highly relevant..."
"Fantastic course! The ethical dilemmas discussed were spot on and the instruction was top-notch."
"I found the ethical discussions really valuable."
"Excellent overview, particularly strong on ethics and the challenges journalists face."
Provides a solid foundation but lacks practical detail.
"Some parts felt a bit basic, especially if you have prior knowledge, but it serves as a solid introduction."
"Okay course. It touches on many topics but doesn't go deep enough."
"It's a good starting point, but you'll need to supplement with more specialized learning."
"Expected more concrete examples and less theoretical discussion. Not very practical."
"I was looking for more depth on practical skills."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Journalism, the future, and you! with these
activities:
Review 'The Elements of Journalism' by Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel.
Show steps
Performing a close reading of The Elements of Journalism will help you develop a solid understanding of media ethics and standards.
View
The Elements of Journalism, Revised and Updated...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book's introduction and first chapter to gain a general overview of the discussion and key takeaways.
-
Identify and summarize the 10 principles of journalism.
-
Provide 2 to 3 specific examples for each principle to demonstrate your understanding.
Reach out to a professional journalist to serve as a mentor and guide throughout the course.
Show steps
Having a mentor will provide you with ongoing support and advice from someone who has been in the journalism field.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
-
Identify a journalist you admire and respect who could potentially be a good mentor.
-
Write a professional email or letter expressing your interest in mentorship and outlining your goals and aspirations.
-
Follow up with potential mentors and schedule an initial meeting to discuss your career goals and expectations for the mentorship.
Form a study group with classmates to discuss the ethical issues faced by journalists.
Show steps
Collaborative discussions about the role of ethics in journalism will enhance your understanding of the complexities journalists face.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
-
Connect with classmates who share an interest in the topic and form a study group.
-
Choose a specific ethical issue facing journalists to discuss, such as bias, censorship, or privacy.
-
Research and gather information on the chosen ethical issue to prepare for the discussion.
-
Participate actively in the discussion, sharing your insights, perspectives, and questions.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Complete exercises on identifying and avoiding bias in news writing.
Show steps
These exercises will reinforce your understanding of objectivity in reporting and provide valuable practice in avoiding bias in your own writing.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
-
Find online exercises or resources dedicated to identifying and avoiding bias in news writing.
-
Complete the exercises carefully, paying attention to the examples and explanations provided.
-
Apply the techniques learned from the exercises to your own writing.
Write a short article about a current event that is relevant to journalism.
Show steps
Putting your classroom knowledge to use by writing an article will strengthen your understanding of journalistic writing and the creative process.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
-
Determine a newsworthy event to serve as the topic of your article.
-
Gather information on the event through credible sources such as news websites, articles, or interviews.
-
Write a rough draft by organizing your information into a clear and concise structure.
-
Refine the article by editing for grammar, clarity, and adherence to journalistic standards.
Create a multimedia news package to cover a local event in your community.
Show steps
This comprehensive project will give you hands-on experience in gathering, producing, and presenting a journalistic story across multiple platforms.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
-
Identify a newsworthy event or issue in your community that would benefit from multimedia coverage.
-
Plan the scope and format of your multimedia package, considering a mix of written, audio, and visual content.
-
Conduct thorough research and interviews to gather information on the topic.
-
Write a compelling news article that captures the essence of the story.
-
Produce an engaging audio or video segment that complements the written article and adds depth to your coverage.
-
Present your multimedia package in a cohesive and impactful way, utilizing storytelling techniques and multimedia tools.
Attend a conference or workshop to connect with industry professionals in journalism.
Show steps
Interacting with experienced journalists at conferences will expand your professional network and provide valuable insights.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
-
Research and identify industry conferences or workshops that align with your interests in journalism.
-
Register and attend the event, actively participating in sessions and networking with professionals.
Review 'The Elements of Journalism' by Bill Kovach and Tom Rosenstiel.
Show steps
Performing a close reading of The Elements of Journalism will help you develop a solid understanding of media ethics and standards.
View
The Elements of Journalism, Revised and Updated...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book's introduction and first chapter to gain a general overview of the discussion and key takeaways.
- Identify and summarize the 10 principles of journalism.
- Provide 2 to 3 specific examples for each principle to demonstrate your understanding.
Reach out to a professional journalist to serve as a mentor and guide throughout the course.
Show steps
Having a mentor will provide you with ongoing support and advice from someone who has been in the journalism field.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a journalist you admire and respect who could potentially be a good mentor.
- Write a professional email or letter expressing your interest in mentorship and outlining your goals and aspirations.
- Follow up with potential mentors and schedule an initial meeting to discuss your career goals and expectations for the mentorship.
Form a study group with classmates to discuss the ethical issues faced by journalists.
Show steps
Collaborative discussions about the role of ethics in journalism will enhance your understanding of the complexities journalists face.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Connect with classmates who share an interest in the topic and form a study group.
- Choose a specific ethical issue facing journalists to discuss, such as bias, censorship, or privacy.
- Research and gather information on the chosen ethical issue to prepare for the discussion.
- Participate actively in the discussion, sharing your insights, perspectives, and questions.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Complete exercises on identifying and avoiding bias in news writing.
Show steps
These exercises will reinforce your understanding of objectivity in reporting and provide valuable practice in avoiding bias in your own writing.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online exercises or resources dedicated to identifying and avoiding bias in news writing.
- Complete the exercises carefully, paying attention to the examples and explanations provided.
- Apply the techniques learned from the exercises to your own writing.
Write a short article about a current event that is relevant to journalism.
Show steps
Putting your classroom knowledge to use by writing an article will strengthen your understanding of journalistic writing and the creative process.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Determine a newsworthy event to serve as the topic of your article.
- Gather information on the event through credible sources such as news websites, articles, or interviews.
- Write a rough draft by organizing your information into a clear and concise structure.
- Refine the article by editing for grammar, clarity, and adherence to journalistic standards.
Create a multimedia news package to cover a local event in your community.
Show steps
This comprehensive project will give you hands-on experience in gathering, producing, and presenting a journalistic story across multiple platforms.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a newsworthy event or issue in your community that would benefit from multimedia coverage.
- Plan the scope and format of your multimedia package, considering a mix of written, audio, and visual content.
- Conduct thorough research and interviews to gather information on the topic.
- Write a compelling news article that captures the essence of the story.
- Produce an engaging audio or video segment that complements the written article and adds depth to your coverage.
- Present your multimedia package in a cohesive and impactful way, utilizing storytelling techniques and multimedia tools.
Attend a conference or workshop to connect with industry professionals in journalism.
Show steps
Interacting with experienced journalists at conferences will expand your professional network and provide valuable insights.
Browse courses on
Journalism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify industry conferences or workshops that align with your interests in journalism.
- Register and attend the event, actively participating in sessions and networking with professionals.
Career center
Learners who complete Journalism, the future, and you! will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Journalist
Journalist
As a Journalist, you will need to be able to gather, analyze, and report on news and current events. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as writing, interviewing, and research. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of journalists and how to report on sensitive topics in a responsible way.
Editor
Editor
As an Editor, you will need to be able to manage a team of writers and reporters, as well as oversee the production of news content. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as project management, communication, and decision-making. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of editors and how to ensure that the news content you produce is accurate and fair.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
As a Public Relations Specialist, you will need to be able to build and maintain relationships with the media, as well as develop and implement public relations campaigns. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as media relations, crisis communication, and social media management. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of public relations professionals and how to build a positive reputation for your clients.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
As a Marketing Manager, you will need to be able to develop and implement marketing campaigns, as well as manage a team of marketing professionals. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as marketing research, campaign planning, and budgeting. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of marketing professionals and how to develop marketing campaigns that are both effective and ethical.
Communications Director
Communications Director
As a Communications Director, you will need to be able to develop and implement communication strategies, as well as manage a team of communication professionals. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as strategic planning, media relations, and social media management. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of communications professionals and how to build a positive reputation for your organization.
Speechwriter
Speechwriter
As a Speechwriter, you will need to be able to write speeches for a variety of audiences, including political figures, business leaders, and non-profit organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as research, writing, and editing. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of speechwriters and how to write speeches that are both effective and persuasive.
Grant Writer
Grant Writer
As a Grant Writer, you will need to be able to write grant proposals for a variety of organizations, including non-profits, schools, and businesses. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as research, writing, and budgeting. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of grant writers and how to write grant proposals that are both effective and persuasive.
Technical Writer
Technical Writer
As a Technical Writer, you will need to be able to write technical documentation, such as user manuals, training materials, and white papers. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as research, writing, and editing. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of technical writers and how to write technical documentation that is both clear and concise.
Copywriter
Copywriter
As a Copywriter, you will need to be able to write advertising copy, marketing materials, and other promotional materials. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as writing, editing, and persuasion. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of copywriters and how to write copy that is both effective and ethical.
Content Creator
Content Creator
As a Content Creator, you will need to be able to create and publish content for a variety of platforms, such as websites, blogs, and social media. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as writing, editing, and social media marketing. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of content creators and how to create content that is both engaging and informative.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Manager
As a Social Media Manager, you will need to be able to develop and implement social media campaigns for a variety of organizations. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as social media marketing, content creation, and community management. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of social media managers and how to use social media to build a positive reputation for your organization.
Blogger
Blogger
As a Blogger, you will need to be able to create and publish content for your own blog. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as writing, editing, and search engine optimization. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of bloggers and how to create content that is both engaging and informative.
Freelance Writer
Freelance Writer
As a Freelance Writer, you will need to be able to write articles, blog posts, and other content for a variety of clients. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as writing, editing, and marketing. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of freelance writers and how to build a successful freelance writing business.
Media Planner
Media Planner
As a Media Planner, you will need to be able to develop and implement media plans for a variety of clients. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as media research, planning, and budgeting. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of media planners and how to develop media plans that are both effective and ethical.
Web Content Manager
Web Content Manager
As a Web Content Manager, you will need to be able to manage the content of a website, including writing, editing, and publishing. This course can help you develop the skills you need to be successful in this field, such as web design, content management, and search engine optimization. Additionally, the course will help you understand the ethical responsibilities of web content managers and how to create content that is both engaging and informative.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/t73s9y/journalism
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Journalism, the future, and you!.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of journalism, including ethical considerations and the importance of accuracy and objectivity.
Provides a comprehensive overview of how journalists can use social media to gather information, build relationships with sources, and distribute their work.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities of international journalism, including the ethical, legal, and cultural considerations that journalists must be aware of.
Save
Provides a thought-provoking exploration of the future of journalism, including the impact of technology, the rise of social media, and the changing nature of the news audience.
Provides step-by-step guidance on how to conduct investigative journalism.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the ethical issues facing journalists.
Practical guide to the everyday tasks of a journalist.
Save
This magazine leading source of journalism criticism and commentary.
Save
This organization provides legal assistance to journalists who are facing legal challenges.
Save
This organization leading advocate for press freedom around the world.
Save
Collection of profiles of some of the greatest journalists in history.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/t73s9y/journalism
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Rating
4.7
Effort
Approx. 27 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Michigan State University
Instructors
Lucinda D. Davenport
Jeremy Steele
Eric Freedman
David Poulson
Joe Grimm
Joanne C. Gerstner
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
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Português
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Italiano
中文
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हिंदी
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اُردُو,
فارسی
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tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Become a Journalist: Report the News!. It's comprised of five courses:
- Journalism, the future, and you! (viewing)
- Capstone: Create your own professional journalistic portfolio
- Gathering and Developing the News
- Effectively delivering the news to your audience
- What is news?
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