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Unlock your journalistic potential
A journalist must learn the house rules of the media organisations they are working for. All will have a set of guidelines and a style guide. But here are general tips about starting off in journalism.
How to write a radio news script
Radio journalists must write clear scripts that weave together compelling audio clips, ensuring listeners understand a news story's significance.
Integrity and journalism
Without integrity your journalism is untrustworthy and suspect. Integrity is essential if a journalist wants to investigate issues, shine a light in dark places, and to dig where others don't.
Fairness in journalism
Fairness in journalism means exploring all sides of an issue and reporting the findings accurately.
Editorial independence during elections
Election coverage is one of the most critical responsibilities of the media. It shapes public discourse, informs voters, and plays a vital role in safeguarding democracy.
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AI and investigative journalism
The landscape of investigative journalism is undergoing a significant transformation, with artificial intelligence (AI) emerging as a powerful ally for reporters.
The investigative journalism dossier
Discipline, order and a well thought out plan are essential for successful investigative journalism.
Investigating corruption
A journalist investigating corruption faces many risks and challenges. Investigative journalist Don Ray shares his experience.
In-depth proactive journalism
Proactive journalism is an approach to newsgathering where reporters take the initiative in seeking out stories.
When a ‘big story’ breaks
Big stories happen out of the blue. And when they do newsrooms have to spring into action immediately.
Tool: Story Weighting System
Different news stories have a different value for your audience and for your business. Giving news items a 'weighting' can lead to impact and efficiencies.
Developing a media sales strategy
Sales is one of the most important elements of a media company's commercial strategy. The sustainability of the business relies on its ability to generate income.
Project management in media
A media organisation must always remain alert to changing audience demand and behaviour. This involves continually examining what is produced to ensure that it is relevant to those who consume it.
The value of audience research
Knowing your audience and understanding the issues they face are essential factors in developing a compelling editorial proposition.
Emotional pressure – scenario
How should a reporter respond when someone uses emotional pressure and threats to try to stop them doing their job?
Editorial impartiality – scenario
In this scenario a reporter covering a story about medical malpractice in a hospital discovers that the consultant involved is a relative. What should they do?
Doorstepping – scenario
You are a local newspaper reporter sent out to doorstep a bereaved family but you lie to your news editor because you are reluctant to intrude on their grief.
Lesson: Beyond basic fact-checking
Journalists who have mastered basic fact-checking skills need to develop systems for dealing with all forms of fake news.
Lesson: Word Power
This lesson plan is designed to teach students the power of words and how to use them when writing a piece of journalism.
Lesson: Investigative Journalism
A lesson plan to help journalists navigate the challenges of complex investigative reporting.
Module: Digital Journalism
This free educational module provides an outline for teaching students about the challenges and opportunities facing journalists in the digital age.
Module: Training of Trainers
This free educational module provides an outline for teaching senior journalists the skills needed for developing and delivering effective training for media professionals.
Module: Advanced Journalism
This free educational module provides an outline for teaching students about advanced journalism. It's designed to be adapted by universities and colleges to meet local needs.
Developing the potential of your staff
Media training is about investing in people - your staff. They are your most precious resource.
Training of Trainers (ToT)
Training of Trainers (ToT) courses are designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to train others.
The qualities required for media training
A trainer must not shout at participants or get into loud arguments. They must not make those attending their courses feel small or humiliate them.