Course: Selected Topics in Journalism: Independent Media, JOURNALISM 39002
Professor: Raza Ahmad Rumi, Director Park Center for Independent Media (PCIM), Visiting Faculty Brooks School of Public Policy, Cornell University
Attributes and Designations: Diversity, Liberal Arts (LA)
When do students enroll: Junior Standing (exceptions can be made in certain cases).
What it covers:
This course focuses on the practice of journalism in independent news outlets. In particular, the students learn about the areas independent media cover, the impact they make, and their finances and sustainability. The course enables students to learn about the history, relevance, and cultural/political/journalistic impact of independent, non-conglomerate media in the US and the world.
Readings and class discussions immerse students in assessing the strengths and weaknesses, ethical issues, obstacles faced by the independent media.
How it is taught:
Learning during the course entails class participation, blogging, writing papers, class presentations and developing a business plan for an independent (start-up) outlet. The latter is a key feature of this practicum seminar where students undertake research to create an original independent media start-up by assessing community/market needs, costs, revenue streams, marketing, platforms for outreach.
Guest speakers join the class regularly and students are encouraged to attend events organized by Park Center for Independent Media.
Why I teach this course:
The true value of liberal arts education is to enable the students to think critically and appreciate the importance of dissent for democracy and the pursuit of social justice.
This course helps students to learn the rich history of dissent in the US and how an independent press intersected with 19th and 20th century social movements that resulted in major social and political change. Contemporary strands of independent journalism uphold that legacy and provide alternative venues for citizen engagement.