Fun with Writing for Mass Media

Writing for Mass Media (2033) is the second class taken by all students entering the Gaylord College of Journalism and Mass Communication. This course is designed to instruct the student on many facets of multimedia including: writing, editing, elements of AP style, and core values of their chosen profession. Within the college students may choose to major in either Journalism, Advertising, Public Relations, or Professional Writing. For those who require more insight into their profession, 2033 is designed to pique the interests of students into a particular field of study, and aid them in understanding the professional media environment. Specific goals laid out for this class include: building media literacy, improving writing skills, building interests, practicing various types of media writing, developing professional skills, understanding core values of professions, and understanding specific conventions of all media outlets. 

Professor Steyn said it best when she offered a window into this course's difficulty  "it's not an easy class." Students will be challenged extensively both in class and in lab where they will be required to hone their skills as writers, and as media professionals. Grading is percentage based with lab being 50%, quizzes being 25%, and exams being 25%. 

Academic honesty within 2033 is paramount. Any form of cheating, plagiarism, fabrication, or fraud results in a failing grade, and disciplinary action by the University. During lab, students must fact check their material. Fact checking is the process of verifying facts within a story to ensure legality and credibility. Any misstated fact will cost students 25% of their grade before lab 15. After lab 17, 50% will be deducted. 

Lecture classes house up to 165 students, and is based on powerpoint slides. The slides are posted on Desire to Learn, OU's teacher-student communication website, for students to use as study guides. Cell phone use is strictly prohibited, as it is seen as distracting to Prof. Steyn. Students caught with cell phones will be required to leave class immediately.