Implications for Computing and Mass Communication Education

Media Convergence: Implications for Computing and Mass Communication Education

AbstractComputer science and mass communication education in Nigeria face a common

challenge– many graduates do not have the skills to succeed. Media convergence can help. Traditionally seen as diametrically opposite disciplines, the symbiotic relationship between computing and mass communication is often not reflected in educational programs. User-friendly technologies offer opportunities for increased collaboration. Each field holds unique perspectives. Computing focuses on how digital technology enables routing digital content to various communication devices. Mass communication merges formerly distinct disciplines such as television, print media and radio into a single stream over the Internet. The disciplines complement each other as mass communication students can create content to showcase web applications developed by computing students. All Varsity News Network presents a model for collaboration between the two fields.

Improving Intra and Inter-Institution Communication

Online Newspaper Management System

Support System for Publications in the Education Sector

Model for linking university publications to student technology and journalism interns

Improve intra and inter-institutional communication by supporting existing media and facilitating the creation of new ones

Improve the effectiveness of university-trained computer scientists and journalists by building networks and bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Foster inter-institutional collaboration and culture of sharing information and learning

Content Management System

Publishing tools News Wire Service Advertisement

Management Website hosting Computer training Journalism Workshops

Screen capture of the content management

tool

Public Relations Officers

Computer science departments

Mass communication departments

Special Interest groups and associations

Publication Managers Corporate clients

Mission Statement: The All Varsity Newspaper Network is dedicated to improving the global image of Africa, fostering public discourse essential for civil society, and helping the education sector in general and university publications in particular maintain the highest standards of quality and better serve their communities.

To make news about the Nigerian education sector and university life available to wider audiences

To promote core journalistic values, while embracing and exploiting technologies

To promote the newspaper’s role in providing information necessary to the informed practice of citizenship.

Screen capture of content management system

To manage administrative processes freeing up university newspapers to focus on editorial processes

To reinforce the training that students receive in the skills and principles needed to produce quality journalism.

To sell interactive marketing services to corporate clients

Seek alliances with like-minded industry groups including national newspapers, communication associations, corporations and regulatory bodies

Encourage network affiliates to help one another improve their communication and technology usage by participating in joint workshops and training.

Explore on-site visits and other outreach to prospective affiliates.

Provide access to quality content through developing a news wire service.

Solicit news about Nigerian students abroad for wire service

Share success stories with affiliates in marketing products and news wire.

Link to a brief Camtasia demonstration

Lead newspaper technologies through software development

Help editors face change and challenge by developing interactive tutorials.

Explore programs funded by foundations and collaborate on grant opportunities.

Generate new projects and services.

Support quality education and training for journalists

Encourage newspapers and editors to get involved in high school journalism.

Screen Capture of Mass Communication Moodle

Page. The site is now down, but should be up

tomorrow.