Pre-University: Journalism for New Media, Television and Radio

Module Information

Journalism for New Media

Level 5 QQI Award: Journalism (5M2464)

Course Content: (Module Names and Codes)

Media Analysis (5N1298)

If you have ever wondered why some stories dominate the headlines and other go under the radar, Media Analysis will help you to understand what makes a story newsworthy.  This component considers who owns and controls the media, who frames the message, and asks the question; how savvy are the audience? Are the audience easily manipulated, or can they identify media bias? You will also learn about current media legislation, and reflect on the legal, ethical and moral responsibilities of media practitioners. This module aims to make us better and more effective producers and users of media content.

Assessment: Project (60%), Examination – Theory (40%).

Research Skills for Journalism (5N2443)

The basis of good journalism is thorough, careful research. If you need to find out more about a story, you will need to know who to ask and what to ask them. As part of this subject you will learn how to make contacts, ask the right questions and conduct an interview from start to finish. You will learn about developing a ‘nose’ for a good story and you will gain an understanding of how the analysis of raw data such as crime statistics can form a great article. Classes will be a blend of discussion, active research and group work.

Assessment: Assignments (60%), Project (40%).

Writing Skills for Journalism (5N2435)

The traditional skills of good, careful writing that can engage an audience and get a story across is vital for any journalist. Learners will spend classes writing news, opinion, features and reviews and also learn how to structure their writing, use good quotes and tailor their articles to different audiences, such as mainstream, alternative and tabloid. Learners will compose articles from start to finish and will benefit from consistent feedback. Learners will also spend time reading articles by great (and not great) journalists and will learn from their techniques and their mistakes.

Assessment: Portfolio/Collection of Work (70%), Assignment (30%).

Technical Skills for Journalism (5N2463)

An article may be well researched and skilfully written but to be a great article it has to be perfectly edited. Learn how to restructure work so that it is sharp and focused. Write great headlines and captions and pick the perfect photos to accompany all articles. Learn how to recognise good design and to understand how online and print publications appeal to an audience through the use of design and layout. Classes will be spent editing articles for style and grammar, searching online picture libraries and applying design theory to practice.

Assessment: Assignments (60%), Project (40%). 

Radio Programme Production 5N1379

The purpose of this module is to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to produce radio programmes and other radio broadcast materials such as podcasts, to a standard suitable for a range of services at a local, regional and national level.

Assessment: Assignment (30%), Portfolio/Collection of Work (50%), Examination - Theory (20%).

Digital Movie Processing 5N1605

Aims to equip the learner with the knowledge, skill and competence to utilise tools to produce professional video content using modern digital processing techniques. Students will learn how to utilise key production methods in video production and editing. Through a range of tasks executed on Adobe Premeire Pro, students will learn how to realise various treatments and FX, including motion and key effects, while effectively managing their project and source files. A portfolio piece (30-90 second video) will be produced by each student which demonstrates their new skills as part of the module.

Assessment: Project (60%), Portfolio/Collection of Work (40%).

Desktop Publishing (5N0785)

Using industry-standard software, learn the skills of desktop publishing. Create and produce single page, double-page and multi-page documents containing text and graphic images suitable for professional/commercial publication. All aspects from layout to printing including workflow, colour modes, file types and pre-print preparation are covered. Desktop Publishing is an integral component of modern Journalism. It is also used for preparing items for digital publication.

Assessment: Portfolio/Collection of Work (70%), Examination - Theory (30%).

Communications (5N0690)

Gain the relevant knowledge, skill and competence to communicate verbally and non-verbally in standard everyday tasks and work-related situations, operating independently and under general supervision.

Assessment:  Portfolio/Collection of Work (50%), Skills Demonstration (50%).

Work Experience (5N1356)

You will prepare for work placement in a relevant vocational area through an evaluation of your skills set, the development of a CV, and an understanding of current workplace legislation. An integral part of this component is developing the skills required for a successful job search; therefore, is it your responsibility to secure your placement. On completion of your Work Placement of at least 10 days (or 60 hours), you will reflect, review and consider your future career options.

Assessment:  Portfolio/Collection of Work (60%), Skills Demonstration (40%).