The subject looks at the evolution of modern news techniques and the anticipated role and function of the journalist in the 21st century. It considers definitions of news and the relative weighting of news values. Students are introduced to news writing conventions through both simulated and real-life reporting experiences. The subject analyses and implements methods of attribution and verification. It introduces students to the news interview and basic reporting assignments.
Students study journalism ethics in the context of broader cultural and ethical values.
They consider the Australian Journalists Association Code of Ethics and its implications for working journalists. Issues include respect for truth, the public's right to information, confidentiality of sources, advertising considerations and personal privacy. The emphasis of this subject is on journalism research and mass communication research. The first part of the subject considers a variety of news gathering methods and the translation of such research into accurate news stories. Special attention is paid to developing journalists' interviewing skills.