There was time when there clearly defined roles in the journalism industry. Reporters relayed the news; photographers told stories visually; and videographers recorded events. Well, social media, mobile and multimedia tools have blurred those roles and have changed the ways news is reported and consumed.
As traditional journalism programs quickly adapt to these new technologies, it is increasingly important that students learn how to effectively use these tools to report news in a fair and unbiased manner while capturing – and keeping – the attention of their online, print and mobile audiences.
Thus, following are five ways that my book, 62 Blog Posts to Overcome Blogger’s Block, can help journalism students do that and more.
Blend objectivity with creativity
Students can use their journalism skills to report the news while using blogs and social media to hold conversations with their audiences. This open and honest communication will keep their readers returning.
Boost skills technology skills
Many journalism programs teach students how to use audio, videos and photos to enhance their stories. However, students can boost their technology skills and creativity with presentations, animations and infographics.
Spotlight and honor people
Human interest stories are an essential aspect of traditional news reporting. In new media, individuals are the focus of profile stories, interviews, and inspirational stories. Journalism students can honor people whose stories may never be told by mainstream media by spotlighting who they are, what they do and how they are making a difference in the community and the lives of others.
Write for different audiences
In traditional journalism programs, students were taught to write for newspapers, television and radio, which follows specific guidelines and is more rigid in nature. Writing for website and mobile phone users allows them to use lessons learned in class while flexing their creative muscles.
Enhance journalism skills
Although students learn how to write, research, interview and write in class, my book shows them how to use their creativity to produce content consistently, which ultimately keeps their audience returning.
Above are five ways my book, 62 Blog Posts to Overcome Blogger’s Block, benefit journalism students. While the lessons learned in their journalism programs are valuable, the skills taught in my book – how to write for and interact with online and mobile audiences – are priceless.
What are some other ways journalism students can overcome blogger’s block?
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