In order to successfully complete this course, you must demonstrate your understanding of the course materials by:
Here is an overview of all of the different types of assignments in the course. You can find the detailed directions for the assignments and the grading rubrics in the module where they are assigned or in the Rubrics Module.
The proctored assessments provide you with an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of the course knowledge. The first exam is a deadline writing exam, which mimics a real-world journalism environment where you will produce an inverted-pyramid style story. The midterm and final are cumulative exams. You can find the information on how to take proctored assessments in the Taking Proctored Assessments section of the Syllabus.
Your reported story will be a feature story, written in alternative style (which we cover in the 5th PowerPoint "lecture"). This assignment will require you to get out in your community, to observe, and to interview multiple people. There are multiple required steps along the way -- pitching the story, writing interview questions, two drafts -- that will help you succeed. You will also create a simple multimedia component to add appeal to your story.
There are various short homework assignments on key concepts such as news judgement, interviewing, leads and headlines, media law and ethics, and editing. These usually require writing short answers, and should be used to help you prepare for the proctored assessments. There is also one longer homework assignment where you will analyze the film All the President's Men for the lessons it offers on good journalism practice.
There are three short quizzes, a combination of multiple choice and short answers, to help you prepare for proctored assessments and larger projects.
The discussion activities provide you with an opportunity to analyze some of the concepts introduced in the Module. Additionally, you will compare and contrast the ideas of your classmates in response to their posts. Reviewing and commenting can prepare you for the quizzes and the proctored assessments. Online discussion allows time to weave your thoughts and reflect on the readings and your experiences. All of the posts on the discussion board are required to be thoughtful, reflective, and concise.
All the President's Men tells the real-life story of two Washington Post reporters and how their careful, diligent work brought one of the worst political crimes of our history to light. You will watch this film and analyze it for how the reporters demonstrate good journalistic principles, including double-checking their sources, building rapport with sources, avoiding bias, being persistent in finding information, and working rapidly on deadline.