News Reporting (421-4-21)

Topic

Social Justice/Investigative Reporting

Instructors

Desiree Hanford

Meeting Info

303 E. Wacker Dr. 1609A: Tues, Thurs 9:00AM - 11:50AM

Overview of class

This reporting class involves an introduction to and exploration of using investigative tools like FOIAs, legal filings, public documents and basic data to report on social justice topics like policing, housing, immigration and labor rights. Developing sources and in-depth interviews will also be central, with a focus on both tapping sources for story ideas and working with vulnerable sources. Students will choose a beat (like housing) and produce multiple smaller stories and at least one more in-depth investigative story during the quarter, with the goal of publishing on Medill Reports. No previous investigative experience required. Multimedia elements like audio and photography may be incorporated.

Class Materials (Required)

None

Class Attributes

Attendance at 1st class mandatory