THE TRANSFORMATIVE ROLE OF CAMPUS JOURNALISM IN EDUCATION

MARIEL LYKA T. DE LUNA

Campus journalism is an important component in the process of educating students and preparing them for future challenges, and as a result, it has an impact on the educational environment. It encourages the development of students' communication skills and stimulates the cultivation of critical thinking skills by providing them with the opportunity to voice their thoughts, opinions, and concerns. Through participation in academic journalism, magazine articles, and online conversation through a variety of media channels, students acquire intellectual inquisitiveness, ethical accountability, and a dedication to discussing topics that are well informed. Journalism not only helps students improve their writing skills, but it also teaches them important skills such as communication skills, research skills, interpersonal skills, critical thinking, and civic responsibility. Students receive instruction on the complexities of information collection, which includes the ability to assess data, determine the reliability of the evidence, and construct narratives that are consistent with logic. It is possible for investigative reporting to shed light on concerns that have been dormant for some time, which can then lead to the implementation of necessary actions and the development of a sense of accountability among teachers, administrators, and students. Campus journalism not only has an effect on academic and personal growth, but it also works to mold both of these aspects of development. Students who take part in journalistic efforts usually develop a sense of agency and become aware of the transforming potential of their words, which ultimately leads to them becoming more informed and involved members of society. The practice of responsible journalism is founded on ethical concerns, and the cultivation of a strong moral compass is accomplished through the observance of a code of ethics. The ability to identify and traverse the digital domain is provided to students through campus journalism, which continues to be a key component of media literacy training. This is the case despite the challenges that are created by the dynamic nature of digital media. There is a congruence between the value of campus journalism and the larger educational goals and benchmarks, and it provides students with a practical and fascinating way to achieve these goals. Through collaborative publication efforts, the exchange of personal narratives, and substantive conversation, campus journalism has a substantial impact on the overall ethos of an educational institution. This is accomplished by developing a sense of community belonging and collective identity among the members of the institution. This programme helps to develop a supportive environment by promoting a sense of unity and inclusivity among the students, teachers, and administrators of the institution.

-oOoThe author is Teacher II at Basa Air Base National High School