Course Canceled Due To Low Enrollment

In early October, graduating journalism majors received a jolt of fear as they found out a required class would be canceled for their final semester.

Journalism 56, and Broadcasting 54 normally ran on Wednesdays in the spring semester. The Producing the TV Newscast course took up two class periods and went from 12:30-6:10 p.m. The first half of the class was devoted to developing new story ideas, and critiquing work from previous weeks. Students then went out and shot the stories in pairs, one being in charge of the camera, the other being the reporter. After the footage was recorded, students edited and produced news packages much like those you see on television.

“I know some seniors are quite disappointed that this double class was canceled, said Media Department chair, Barbara Fowles. “The faculty involved is also disappointed. We loved this class!”

According to Dr. Fowles, the reason for the cancellation is a lack of enrollment. In order for the course to work well, there have to be enough students to create the reporting/production teams. In the past, the class has had very small numbers, making this a difficult task.

“We decided not to offer it again until we have enough students to provide a good educational experience for everyone, Fowles said. “I hope this will be the following spring.”

The course is in deferment, however, Professor Sandra Mardenfeld, head of the journalism department, plans on reworking the course to adjust to the changes in the media world.  “Due to a shocking change in media, we are re-working the curriculum,” said Mardenfeld.

Kayla Krause, a graduating senior had the advantage of taking the course last semester. “It was probably the most beneficial class I’ve taken here at Post,” Krause said.  “I learned everything from writing the story, to using a camera, being on camera, and then editing my footage to make the final story.  The class taught me how to be a one man band and that’s what the industry wants in a journalist nowadays.”

Senior Nhya East has yet to take the course. “I think it’s really upsetting that they canceled the class,” said East. “I personally think it would have proven to be valuable for me, especially since I’m about to graduate and go out in my field.”

As for the other journalism students who will not be able to take the course, both Dr. Fowles, and Professor Mardenfeld are willing to work with the students to find an alternative that suits their needs and interests.