COMM 251 - Introduction to Journalism

An introduction to the fundamentals of journalism and mass communication, including advertising and public relations. The course will look at the changing industry and career trends. The course explores media literacy and communications theories through print and electronic media. Writing focuses on generally accepted news writing principles. PREREQUISITE(S): A grade of C or better in ENGL 101 or ENGL 101A or consent of department. Three hours lecture/discussion each week.

3 semester hours

Course Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:

Demonstrate an understanding of the journalism business culture and business models including the different ways news is produced and distributed in today’s society, the different roles of reporters, editors, advertising and layout personnel, and an understanding of how news outlets make money.
Identify the audience of a newspaper or other news media, will be able to identify the key news values in any story, and be able to understand the value of features, such as opinion, crossword puzzles and other “non-news” information in a newspaper or other news outlet.
Understand the reporter’s rights as guaranteed by laws and the U.S. Constitution.
Identify legal issues in reporting (news gathering/researching) and writing news or feature stories.
Recognize the role of news media in a free society.
Articulate ethical choices that writers, editors or producers make with any story.
Identify, evaluate and interview the best sources in order to elicit appropriate information for a story.
Research information and data for stories using various sources.
Students will be able to write an “inverted pyramid” story with a summary lead, and quotations, all conforming to AP Style while applying key news values.

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