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ACP Forums
This is an archived ACP Forums thread.
Beat system/staff training
Barbara, 3/19/2006, 1:49:42 PM
Hello!
I have noticed the success in using a beat system, but college paper doesnt use it. Can someone please explain to me exactly what it is, how it has benefited your paper, and how to go about in mandating the system.
Also, can someone give some tips on training new writers? what have some of you guys done to train new writers, and keep them interested in writing.
thanks!
You can email me at archetype909@aim.com
Responses
Lawrence J. Smith, 3/24/2006, 11:00:49 AM
Barbara:
A beat system, at least as I define it, is whereby each reporter has a specific area of responsiblity he or she covers. For instance, one reporter is responsible for student government association, another covers Greek life, another handles cops and courts, etc. This is contrasted to general assignment whereby a reporter covers everything under the sun.
My suggestion on "mandating" it within your particular newsroom is, first, for the editors to brainstorm a list of possible beats on campus. Then, see if any beats duplicate or overlap each other and consolidate them. Next, would be to assign the beat to the respective reporters based on prior experience and/or desire. Depending on the number of beats and staffers, you may have the same reporter covering multiple beats.
There are many ways to train new writers. One suggestion I offer is to get them to the August summer workshop the Associated Collegiate Press is hosting in Washington, D.C.
Myself and two fellow staffers attended it when we were in college. It taught us A to Z everything we needed to know on operating a student newspaper, including producing better copy. Just the seminar on obtaining records under the Freedom of Information Act was worth the cost of attending the workshop.
I hope I answered your questions. If you need claification on something, or have additional questions, please don't hesitate to contact me.
Lawrence J. Smith
mslmediainc@yahoo.com
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