Internet Journalism

In this exciting new program, students learn about the increasingly important field of Internet Journalism. As we move deeper into the era of Internet communication and world-wide connectivity, young generations can learn to apply their skills and familiarity with this medium to powerful, positive ends. Journalistic reporting will always be a cornerstone of how we receive news and information. Now the Internet joins printed publications as a primary vehicle for distributing this information. It widens the journalistic net and alters the definition of
‘reporter’ and ‘reporting;’ it also brings to the stage a whole new layer of opportunities and responsibilities.

In this course, students explore the art of Internet Journalism. They look at current examples and discuss what makes these successful as well as the responsibilities surrounding this mode of reporting. They consider how and when news is suited for the Web. They examine opportunities for increasing the strength of a piece by reporting online to a world-wide audience and employing interactive tools of links, blogs and video.

To put their skills into practice, students create a live online news publication. They learn the building blocks of journalistic reporting, including research, investigation, interview techniques, observation, writing styles, tone and point of view. They collaborate to define their publication and reporting tasks. They might investigate a bit of Madeira lore, interview school officials, research a critical issue, and report on the political platforms
and campaigns of our students in So, You Want To Be President? We focus not only reporting and writing, but also how to use the Internet to publish, communicate, and cite articles. Students do not need any previous skills – we work individually to teach skills appropriate to each student’s ability level.