Storytelling in the newsroom: An investigation into practice-based learning methods in the training and employment of tomorrow’s journalists

摘要

Abstract:udIn order to prepare students for a career in journalism, teaching must be done through practice-based learning. The integration of theory, practice and reflection as advocated by Kolb (1984) provides a solid pedagogical framework for courses seeking to prepare students for a career in the industry. This research looks at the experiential learning undertaken during the Broadcast Journalism Training Council’s accreditation requirement of practice-based news days both at Coventry University and the University of the West of England. It found that news days had huge benefits for the students in “doing it for real”. They were able to experience the pressures of being a working journalist whilst being allowed to make mistakes in a safe environment. It also shows that the incremental autonomy experienced on news days and reflection sessions, incorporating theory and practice, led to a deeper level of learning for the students.