2 of 7

Write now Article Tools

Teen journalists are eager to plunge into their dream career, journalism. It is an exciting time for would-be journalists but can also prove to be a challenging exercise in the highly competitive field of journalism. Once a teen has decided that she has the right stuff to make it in this tough business, the teacher has a huge responsibility to teach in such a way that would develop the best journalistic skills.

Students should be taught to give the best and expect the best. It starts with an assignment on the local school paper or the community newspaper. It begins with the creation of a great resume that is professionally built. The student will be guided to first assess their qualifications and skills, evaluate their strengths and weaknesses and list their preferences in order of priority. Since students would be looking for a career in the field of journalism, there is no room for errors in a resume; spelling errors, poor grammar, unorganized thoughts and poor presentation will hardly work in their favor.

It is important that teen journalists understand the dynamics of the market they are about to enter. This is the time to carefully assess availability, corporate culture and determine what they need to know about the company they are hoping to join. Yes it is tempting to try for a position with the New York Times, but patience is a great teacher. The teen may have to settle for a smaller newspaper initially. There are many more opportunities available for new journalists, and those willing to freelance, in the smaller newspapers and media outlets.

Teen journalists can be coached about the importance of lifelong learning and that school isn't quite over when they graduate. A Journalist is in perpetual study mode. They will need to read profusely about everything and anything that is going on around them and in the world at large. As journalists, they are expected to be well read and knowledgeable. Sarah Palin may have been let off the hook for not reading the newspapers but a budding journalist will not be so lucky. Like Ms Palin, if you are unfamiliar with the relevant and popular news media, you won't be able to keep it a secret.

The journalist's code of ethics is an all important tool for the teen to take to heart. When teaching teen journalists the code of ethics, some basic principles should be emphasized. According to The Code of Ethics of the of the Society of Professional Journalists, journalists should act independently, minimize harm, look for the truth, report it, and be accountable. Being fair, thorough and credible in the course of reporting, is critical to a career in journalism.

Proper interviewing skills is another important aspect of journalism that the teen would need to master. Through role plays, listening to radio, TV, and other media sources, teens can hone their skills in interviewing. The ABC's of interviewing is a valuable lesson and would include the all important preparation phase for the interview and the journalist's conduct at the interview site and during the interview.

There are many resources available to help you prepare teen journalists for a successful career. In a highly competitive field, They need to know that, excellence in journalism can start at a very early age. To excel in the business requires comittment, knowledge and a host of special skills that can only come through continuous learning and self improvement

Learn more about this author, Joan Schroeder.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to teach teen journalists?
We want to hear your view. Write now!