Journalism

MASS COMMUNICATION ECM 4(1+3)

Lesson 1: Mass Communication

Journalism

It is called the ‘mother of media’. Communicators have to understand the system in which they work. They are required to have the basic skills of using language correctly and creatively and technical skills of writing, programming and production. They need to develop the ability to understand the socio- economic, cultural issues affecting development.

  1. Journalist:may work for newspaper, daily news, magazine, TV, radio. He may hold field job or desk job.
  2. Sub editor: usually have desk job. They cut down or rewrite the stories brought by the reporters. They check for accuracy of facts relating to dates, names, places etc.,
  3. Feature writer: they write article on variety of subjects of general interest and generate ideas.
  4. Section Editor: Section editors do partly administrative work and also write.
  5. With relevant experience in a particular field an editor may take over change of a particular section such as film, home or sports.
  6. Editor-In-Chief This is the most responsible job. Editor -in chief has the final say on what does go or does not to go in the paper. He/she decides on staff allocation, their responsibility and does mainly administrative work with a little writing.
  7. Photo Journalist: Photo journalist deals with the photography part of newspaper or magazine. He/she is required to take photographs of various events to make the print medium more attractive. He/she should be able to create a photo documentary or photo essay such as scientific development, socioeconomic changes etc.
  8. Translators: Translators are mainly appointed by regional language press. Many articles or news items from standard national and international dailies require translation so that the messages conveyed through these articles reach in different regions.

The qualities required by the journalists are

  1. Feeling for words,
  2. Ability to express themselves concisely and clearly.
  3. Curiosity, resourcefulness, wide ranging interests is essential.
  4. Good observation power and punctuality.
  5. Readiness to do hard work and ability to perceive.
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Last modified: Friday, 16 December 2011, 7:04 AM