Let’s see what has you guys talking.

Email:

Hi Scott,

As a former reporter, ND, and now educator, the main challenge I see with teaching this generation of communicators is that they don’t consume their information the way you and I did when we grew up. They don’t read newspapers, they don’t watch TV news, and they don’t listen to traditional radio (only special interest podcasts). They will get their news & information on social media (hopefully from credible sources) and with short attention spans, everything is consumed in bite-sized morsels: TikTok, Instagram, SnapChat, etc. If something catches their attention, they might click on a link and possibly read more. That’s why so many of them want to be “influencers“ or “content creators.”

We in academia aim to teach them ethical storytelling and journalistic principles so that they can communicate with the world around them despite these limited platforms. Unfortunately, many do not understand the difference between unbiased presentation of information and opinion/propaganda.

Can this be done? I think so! But first look up at my camera phone, I’ve gotta post a selfie of us having an intelligent conversation!

Email:

Scott,

Schools that teach “Journalism” will do what they need to do to keep enrollment up and make money.

They don’t care what the kids learn, just as long as daddy’s check clears.

Email:

Scott,

When is the “almost” daily newsletter making a return?

Response: The newsletter has been taking time off, and I expect it will return next week, or the week after that.