2019 - Fall

WRRI – SHERP

Course Number: JOUR-GA 1021.006

Day & Time: Monday, 10:00AM-4:00PM

Location: 655

The aim of this course is to develop and enhance your journalistic talents through intensive use of the tools of the trade. We will specialize in science, health and environment writing and reporting, although the outlook and skills you will acquire will serve you on any of journalism’s numerous news beats.

You will learn to write and report compelling news stories and news features, and greatly improve your already existing skills. These will include basic elements of journalism such as how to find story leads, track down information sources, get and conduct interviews, write with clarity, accuracy and style, and make the most of the editing process. You will learn to write for the print and electronic media, practice the art of blogging, and have a brief introduction to podcasting. You will also receive a basic introduction to shooting and editing video in a series of morning and evening workshops.

In class, there will be a strong focus on discussion, newsroom-style give-and-take, and story pitches, as well as in-class exercises, group edit sessions and some guest speakers. This is a workshop, so class attendance is MANDATORY. You will put your new skills into practice with regular assignments. And some of your best work, honed by group and one-on-one editing sessions, will be considered for the SHERP webzine, Scienceline.