What should you look for before joining a journalism institute?
The world of news has changed in the digital era. Today “speed with accuracy” is the journalist’s major challenge and this is the thin line that separates professional journalists with social media enthusiasts.
How do you think ‘journalism’ has changed in the digital age? What does it mean for aspiring journalists?
The digital age has entirely changed the way we consume news today. News is being consumed in shorter capsules instantly on our personal devices rather than at leisure through a newspaper or on television. The advent of news apps has further brought in a revolutionary change in how a journalist needs to write and report a story befitting consumption on these mediums. Therefore, it is inevitable that journalism and mass media colleges bring their curriculum up to speed to ensure that the students learn what the industry requires them to be proficient in. Relevant knowledge of technology with traditional skill sets — language, writing, reporting, editing, analysis, layouts and camera skills have become a few essentials that students need to be equipped with.
Is there a fusion of print, electronic and social media? How can institutes prepare students to be multi-skilled?
Newsrooms are integrating and today journalists are expected to write from 12 word tweets to 1,200 word long format stories, and also report on television. At the same time, it is very important for a broadcast journalist to be able to produce 15-seconds for snapchat, Instagram and also be competent to produce well-researched documentaries for main stream television. Hence, it is important for students to learn how to adapt their story for different mediums which will reach out to different kinds of audiences. Therefore, the curriculum should provide an intelligent convergence of the skills required for all mediums and also train journalists to write for different readership / viewership profiles. Media schools need to prepare students to adapt themselves to varying media formats.
What are some of the new careers that have emerged in the age of digital journalism?
The digital age has brought in a gamut of opportunities for the millennials. Whether it is being a blogger, content curator, social listener plus content writer, the avenues have grown manifold.
What things should a student look for in an institute before joining the course?
First, the institute’s curriculum and pedagogy should be based on the industry demands because that is where they will eventually work. A more experiential and practical, hands-on training, backed by a strong academic curriculum is essential. I feel that when students are taught by industry experts, they learn the best.
Meha Jayaswal will be sharing her thoughts on careers in journalism and mass media in the Webinar being conducted today at 3:00 pm. Register at www.pearlacademy.com.