The Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication has launched a Mobile News Lab for students to research and develop newsgathering and reporting techniques designed specifically for smartphones and tablets.
Students will work on projects coordinated with professional news organizations including the Atlanta Journal-Constitution and CNN. Projects will include topics from politics and business to sports and entertainment.
Sponsored by the James M. Cox Jr. Institute for Journalism Innovation, Management and Leadership, the Mobile News Lab has affiliated with the Metro Atlanta Chamber, a chamber of commerce. Students completing projects through the Mobile News Lab will earn a MAC certificate of achievement in recognition of their innovative career preparation.
“News organizations tell us that mobile devices now account for one-third to half of their audiences, challenging journalists to find new ways for storytelling,” said Charles Davis, dean of the Grady College. “As a leading institution training future journalists, we must respond. The Mobile News Lab will engage students with digital platforms through a systematic training program, and we appreciate the support of the Metro Atlanta Chamber in this workforce development initiative.”
Faculty members directing the student projects include Keith Herndon, visiting professor; Mark Johnson, senior lecturer; and Bartosz Wojdynski, assistant professor.
