This is a tentative and a brief report, compiled in the interest of the students. This compilation has been done by Ayushi Rai, batch of 2027, Department of Journalism, LSR. Both these papers are taught by Professor Vartika Nanda.
Week-1
27/01/2025-2/02/2025
This week began with an in-depth exploration of the essential qualities that define a good journalist. We delved into the key attributes required in the field, such as integrity, objectivity, curiosity, and strong communication skills.
Additionally, we explored various beats in journalism, each offering unique perspectives and challenges. This discussion broadened our understanding of the diverse roles within the media industry and how different beats contribute to comprehensive news coverage.Among these, we briefly focused on the crime beat, gaining insights into its significance, challenges, and the responsibilities of crime reporters. This introduction helped us understand how crime journalism plays a crucial role in informing the public while adhering to ethical reporting standards.
Tasks assigned
1)A short note of 100 words to be posted on the blog.
2)Research work on crimes committed during medieval and ancient times- Crime Beat.
3)The library team worked on “The art of editing in the age of convergence”.
Week-2
3/02/2025-9/02/2025
This week, we had the opportunity to gain valuable practical insights through our departmental trip to the World Book Fair at Pragati Maidan. This enriching experience allowed us to explore a vast collection of books from diverse genres, interact with publishers and authors, and gain a deeper understanding of the publishing industry. The trip not only broadened our perspectives but also provided a platform to enhance our knowledge and skills in a dynamic and engaging environment. We also started off a little into the topic of education beat in the media.
Tasks Assigned
1)Research work on education beat of journalism
2)The library team worked on “Interviewing for journalists”?
Week-3
10/02/2025-16/02/2025
This week, we explored the crime beat in journalism in greater depth, gaining a more comprehensive understanding of how journalists cover crime-related stories, the ethical considerations involved, and the challenges they face while reporting on sensitive cases.
In addition to the crime beat, we also learned about the education beat, focusing on its key sources and significance in journalism. We discussed how education reporting plays a crucial role in informing the public about policies, reforms, institutional developments, student issues, and broader educational trends. We also examined the various sources of information for education journalists, including government reports, academic institutions, education officials, teachers, students, and policy documents.
Tasks Assigned
1)Research to be done on health beat.
Week-4
17/02/2025-23/02/2025
This week, we explored the significance of press conferences in journalism, understanding their role in disseminating information, holding authorities accountable, and shaping public discourse. We examined how journalists prepare for, conduct, and report on press conferences to ensure accurate and impactful news coverage.
Additionally, we delved into the Health Beat of journalism, gaining insights into its importance in informing the public about medical advancements, public health policies, and critical health-related issues. We discussed the ethical responsibilities of health journalists, the challenges they face in verifying medical information, and the impact of their reporting on public awareness and policymaking.
Tasks Assigned
1)Research outline to be made in copy on ‘ press conference’.
2)Research outline to be made in copy on ‘Health beat’.
3)Research outline to be made in copy on
‘Education Beat’.
Week-5
24/02/2025-2/03/2025
This week, we delved into the fundamentals of television scripting and the various elements that contribute to crafting an effective script. We gained insights into the structure and techniques used in television writing, particularly in the context of news bulletin broadcasting.
Additionally, we learned about the framework within which a TV news bulletin is produced and aired, understanding the key components that shape its presentation, flow, and impact on the audience. As part of this, we also familiarize ourselves with important industry terms such as anchor link, which refers to the transition segments delivered by the news anchor to connect different parts of a bulletin, and piece to camera (PTC), where a reporter speaks directly to the camera to provide analysis or context on a story. These elements play a crucial role in delivering clear, engaging, and professional news bulletins.
Tasks Assigned
Research on multi camera and single camera production.
Research on basics of video editing.
Week-6
3/03/2025-9/03/2025
At the beginning of the week, we delved into the topic of multi and single camera production then we went ahead with the fundamentals of cinematography by exploring different types of camera shots. We started with the basics, learning about long shots, medium shots, and close-up shots, understanding how each is used to frame a subject and convey different emotions or perspectives.
As we progressed, we were introduced to more dynamic camera movements, including zoom-in and zoom-out shots, which help emphasize or de-emphasize subjects within a scene. Additionally, we explored dolly shots, tracking shots, and panning shots, which add movement and depth to visuals, making storytelling more engaging. These techniques provided us with a deeper understanding of how camera work influences the mood and impact of a scene.
Week-7
9/03/2025-16/03/2025
-Mid-semester break-
Week-8
17/03/2025-23/03/2025
This week, we delved deeper into understanding the various types of shots used in visual storytelling and their significance in capturing and presenting news stories effectively. Our discussions focused on how different shot compositions—such as wide shots, close-ups, and over-the-shoulder shots—contribute to the overall impact of a news report.
As we progressed, we explored the court beat in journalism, gaining insights into how journalists cover legal proceedings, trials, and court rulings. We examined the ethical considerations, legal restrictions, and the role of courtroom reporting in keeping the public informed about judicial matters. This discussion provided a deeper understanding of how visual storytelling and responsible journalism intersect in the coverage of legal affairs.
Tasks Assigned
1)A short note on the relevance of shots in television news to be posted on a blog.
Week-9
24/03/2025-30/03/2025
This week, we began by discussing the concept of a lead in news writing. We explored its definition, the various types of leads used in journalism, and their key characteristics. We also examined why a strong lead is crucial for a news story, as it serves to capture the reader’s attention and provide a concise preview of the article’s main point.
Following this, we delved into the topic of headlines, understanding their significance in journalism. We discussed the different types of headlines, their role in engaging readers, and how they contribute to the overall effectiveness of a news story. By analyzing various examples, we gained insights into how well-crafted headlines can influence audience perception and enhance the impact of a news article.
Practical Work:-
1)We identified different types of leads and pasted them in our assignment copies which helped us gain a deeper understanding of different types of leads.
Tasks Assigned
1) Lessons learned from the topic of ‘leads’ to be posted on the blog.
2) Lessons learned from the topic ‘Headline’ to be posted on the blog.
Week-10
31/03/2025-6/04/2025
This week marked the beginning of a fresh learning journey as we explored the topic of News Agencies. We began by tracing their historical origins and understanding how they emerged as essential institutions in the dissemination of news across borders. Through discussions and examples, we examined the relevance of news agencies in today’s fast-paced media landscape, especially in ensuring the timely, accurate, and wide-scale distribution of information.
Furthermore, we delved into the core functions of news agencies, such as gathering, verifying, and distributing news content to various media outlets. We also touched upon the working structures of prominent agencies like Reuters,Press Trust of India (PTI), gaining insights into their global operations and editorial standards. Overall, it was an informative and engaging week that deepened our understanding of how news flows from its source to the audience.
Week-11
7/04/2025-13/04/2025
This week, we made significant progress in our syllabus by covering a substantial range of important topics. Among them were Backgrounders and Misinformation, both of which play a crucial role in shaping the credibility and depth of news content.
We learned that a Backgrounder provides essential context and in-depth information to support a news story, helping audiences understand complex issues beyond the headlines.In addition, we discussed the growing challenge of Misinformation in the digital age. Through examples and discussions, we explored how false or misleading information spreads, its impact on public perception, and the responsibility of media professionals in combating it.
We also briefly touched upon the topic of News Pictures, understanding how visual elements contribute to storytelling in journalism and the ethical considerations involved in their selection and usage.
Overall, the week offered enriching insights into both the technical and ethical aspects of news reporting.
Week-12
14/04/2025-20/04/2025
This week, our department organized its annual fest, Juxtapose, centered around the theme "Media Multiverse." The theme aimed to capture the expansive and evolving nature of media in all its forms,highlighting the interconnectedness and diversity within today’s media landscape.The two-day academic meet featured panel discussions and multiple events designed to reflect on and celebrate the complexity of modern media. It provides valuable insights and opportunities to engage with current media trends, challenges, and innovations.
In addition to fest activities, we also briefly covered the topic of Media Trials in our academic schedule. We discussed its definition, significance, relevant case studies, and the role of regulatory bodies in maintaining journalistic ethics and ensuring a fair trial process.
Overall, the week offered a balanced blend of academic learning and experiential exposure, contributing meaningfully to our understanding of media’s role in society.
Week-13
21/04/2025-28/04/2025
This week began with an insightful exploration into the Relevance of News Pictures,a vital element of visual journalism. We learned how news images play a powerful role in shaping public perception, evoking emotions, and enhancing the impact of a story.We discussed the significance of photojournalism, understanding how photojournalists capture moments that often speak louder than words. Through case studies, we analyzed iconic news photographs and their influence on public opinion and historical memory.
The sessions also covered important aspects of regulations and ethicality in the use of news pictures. We reflected on the responsibility that comes with capturing and publishing images, especially in sensitive situations involving conflict, tragedy, or vulnerable subjects. Emphasis was placed on maintaining ethical standards and respecting the dignity and privacy of individuals while striving to tell the truth visually.
Overall, this week deepened our understanding of the visual dimension of journalism and the careful considerations that go into each powerful frame.
Week-14
29/04/2025-4/05/2025
This week, we delved into the topic of Paid News, an increasingly concerning phenomenon in the media landscape. We began by understanding its meaning—how news content is intentionally influenced in exchange for payment, often without disclosing the financial transaction to the audience. This led us to explore its relevance in today’s media environment, especially in the context of elections, corporate interests, and political propaganda.
We discussed the different types of paid news, including advertorials disguised as news, biased reporting in favor of sponsors, and manipulation of public opinion through selective coverage. Through case studies, we examined real-life examples where media houses and journalists were found engaging in such practices, analyzing the impact these incidents had on public trust and democratic processes.
We also looked into the actions taken by authorities, such as the Press Council of India and the Election Commission, to curb this unethical practice, along with the limitations of existing regulatory mechanisms.
The week concluded with a reflective discussion on the consequences of paid news, emphasizing the threat it poses to journalistic integrity, credibility, and the right of citizens to receive unbiased information. Overall, the sessions highlighted the urgent need for stricter regulations, greater transparency, and ethical accountability in the media industry.
Week-15
5/05/2025-11/05/2025
This week our department had the privilege of hosting a guest lecture by Dr.Archana Kumari, a distinguished faculty member from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), who shared valuable insights into the functioning of the print media industry. The lecture was centred around three core areas of journalism: Principles of Editing, the Editorial Page, and the Organisational Setup of a Newspaper. The session began with an in-depth discussion on the principles of editing, which laid the foundation for understanding the editor’s role in shaping news.She explained how editing is not just about correcting grammar or fixing language, but a thoughtful and responsible process that ensures accuracy, clarity, brevity, balance, and fairness. She also touched upon the importance of style sheets and formatting in maintaining consistency and professionalism across the publication .Through real-life examples and newsroom anecdotes, she explained how editors work behind the scenes to refine raw content into credible, coherent stories, while upholding ethical standards and eliminating biases.
Following this, the lecture moved on to the editorial page, described as the conscience and voice of the newspaper. She emphasized that this page is where the publication presents its own stance on pressing issues through unsigned editorials, while also giving space to opinion pieces and reader's letters. The discussion highlighted the editorial page’s role in setting the tone of public discourse, reflecting ideological leanings, and engaging with a diverse audience.
In the final part of the lecture, the organisational structure of a newspaper was mapped out. She introduced the various departments that come together to produce a daily edition,from the publisher and editor-in-chief to section editors, reporters, sub-editors, layout designers, and the advertising and circulation teams, emphasising on how coordination among these units is essential to ensure the smooth flow of information and production, while also underlining the importance of maintaining a clear distinction between editorial integrity and commercial interests. The session was highly engaging and informative, it gave us a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a newsroom and the editorial responsibilities that shape what we read every day.
We have compiled our weekly reports only till here.
