This module provides basic knowledge, understanding and experience of processing words and pictures for newspaper and magazine use through an introduction to production methods constraints and needs, while also improving reporting and writing skills. It introduces computer-based editing and design using industry-standard software (Indesign and Photoshop) typography, layout, the use of headlines, and the analysis of how news values and reader needs and expectations are addressed through the editing process.

Indesign and Adobe photoshop on Macs
Blackboard
Training videos from Lynda.com

Evans, H. (1978) Editing and Design. London. Heinemann
Franklin, B. (2008) Pulling Newspapers Apart: Analyzing Print Journalism. Oxon. Routledge
Hand, D; Middleditch, S. (2012) Design for Media. London. Routledge
Harcup, T. (2010) Newspaper Journalism. London. Sage Publications
Harrower, T. (2013) The Newspaper Designer’s Handbook. London. McGraw-Hill
Kordes Anton, K. (2014) Adobe Indesign CC Classroom in a Book. San Francisco. Peachpit
Quinn, S. (2001) Digital Sub-editing and Design. Oxford. Focal Press
Synge, D. (2010) Survival Guide to Journalism. Maidenhead. Open University Press

1. REALISE CONCEPTS AS COHERENT NEWSPAPER AND MAGAZINE PAGES AND LEARN THE SKILLS REQUIRED TO BE A SUB-EDITOR [Learning]

2. DEMONSTRATE FLUENCY WITH INDESIGN AND UNDERSTAND THE DIFFERENT ROLES A SUB EDITOR MUST TAKE IN THE NEWSROOM [Knowledge and Understanding]

3. CRITICALLY EVALUATE READER PERCEPTION AND PRODUCT CONSISTENCY [Analysis]

4. DEMONSTRATE PRESENTATION SKILLS AND TIME MANAGEMENT SKILLS TRANSFERABLE TO OTHER DISCIPLINES [Application]

12 x workshops (2 hours) 24 hours; Drop-in sessions (2 hours); Independent learning (124 hours)

Demonstrating and investigating the key concepts and technological systems employed in the design and production of print journalism.

Developing knowledge and understanding of the techniques to produce trade-standard work

A programme of continuous assessment:
1. An essay of 1,500wds based around a proposal for a new newspaper considering content and design and incorporating the work of a sub-editor. (25%)
2. The design and layout of a back page (25%)
3. An in-class assessment of sub-editing skills, based on requirements of the NCTJ sub-editing exam (25%)
4. The design and layout of a magazine front cover (25%)

(Learning Outcomes 1-4)

Key Information Set: 75% coursework, 25% examination

Ever wanted to design the sports back page of a newspaper? This module gives you the skills of lay-out and sub-editing through InDesign software. You will also learn about magazine design and produce a double page spread of sports stories.