Journalism and Democracy
Course Description
Summary
Journalism & Democracy is the result of a grant and partnership with the Center for Community News at the University of Vermont, a national network of student journalism programs around the United States. The course recognizes the essential role that the arts and culture play in a healthy democracy. Arts and culture invite us to experience perspectives and ways of life different from our own; they shape conversations about freedom, equal rights and other values that are at the core of American society; and they help us engage with the world in new and important ways. In short, art and culture serve as a powerful unifier.
In this moment of deep partisan divide and historic threats to democracy, artists and creators need consistent and thoughtful press coverage. In this course, you will be the journalists, reporting on artistic and cultural events in our community. By doing so, you will help create opportunities for people to connect through shared interests— strengthening our sense of unity.
Professional journalists will share their ideas and skills so you will be prepared to publish articles during the term. We will work directly with such news outlets as Vermont Digger and Vermont News and Media which includes the Bennington Banner, the Manchester Journal and the Brattleboro Reformer.
Learning Outcomes
- media literacy, critical analysis, writing skills