2025 - Fall
Through this course students will learn to produce short documentary-style audio stories. They will be encouraged to develop their own personal voice and style, while also learning practical skills necessary for finding work in both radio and podcasting. They will learn to combine precise and honest writing, compelling interviews, scene tape and music into a strong narrative, and leave the course with an understanding of how to create audio stories of broadcast caliber.
My goal is to get students out into the field, collecting sound and reporting as quickly as possible. After an introduction to audio equipment and editing software, students produce a short audio postcard assignment, an NPR style feature, and a final reported project in the audio style of their choice. They will produce stories through a formal edit process, and fine-tune their audio sensibilities by workshopping each other’s stories. There will also be an introduction to using music and sound design.
Please note: Equipment Insurance is required if you need to borrow equipment. Purchase equipment insurance for a full year through College Student Insurance (CSI) https://collegestudentinsurance.com/. CSI covers the gear checked out from the Journalism Equipment Room plus personal items such as laptops and cell phones. Our suggested CSI plan costs $155 with a $500 deductible.