Understanding the impact of news on society using critical thought and experiential exercises.

摘要

College officials at universities across the country are conflicted about whether journalism instruction should be more liberally rounded to supplement the more basic how-to skills that media outlets demand for employment after graduation. This proposed "Understanding the Impact of News on Society Using Critical Thought and Experiential Exercises" curriculum and supporting thesis uniquely merges these two themes. By forcing students to critically look at news behind the headlines---to dissect it, debate it and question it---they will be better able to understand and appreciate the power the media has in society. But in addition to better understanding the news, the curriculum utilizes innovative experiential exercises to help future journalists deal with difficult assignments involving death and tragedy---lessons that are extremely valuable and that few institutions now offer.