Introduction to journalism

About this course

This course introduces the core practices of freelance journalism, including the differences between news and features, interviewing, using facts and quotes, and editing copy to length. Participants will examine articles, develop news and feature pieces, and consider how stories are assembled for publication. Teaching combines class discussion with group activities and individual writing. Learners produce their own copy and complete additional activities outside the classroom.

What you'll learn

• Distinguish between news and feature writing
• Write introductions for news and feature articles
• Use facts, quotes and interview material in copy
• Edit journalistic writing to a specified length

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners and does not require previous journalism knowledge or writing experience. It involves discussion, group activities and individual writing. Learners who speak English as an additional language may attend if they have a reasonable level of English.

• No previous knowledge or skills are required
• Includes both collaborative activities and individual writing
• Some work is completed outside the classroom

Before you go

• Purchasing publications or magazines related to the learner's target area is advisable.
• Learners are encouraged to alert the tutor and classmates in advance if writing they plan to share contains sensitive material.