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Panel says convergence expands opportunitiesBy Anthony Stokes NABJ Convention Online Staff Just because your college degree is in print journalism, that doesn’t mean you can’t also tap into the world of broadcasting or online journalism. That was the concept of convergence conveyed yesterday during a workshop titled “Convergent Media,” which was sponsored by NABJ and Microsoft Corp. According to the panel, with convergence, you can expand your career possibilities by delving into a number of news mediums, including print, online, radio and television. Rather than limiting yourself to just one way of telling stories, you can maximize your exposure through cross-media relationships. Moderator Dr. Sybril Bennett, executive director of the New Century Journalism Program at Belmont University, said she believes that journalists who practice convergence will become more marketable as their skills are expanded and enhanced. “We have to be in the know,” said Bennett. “These discussions [about convergence] have to happen.” The workshops featured a “converged” panel comprised of black professionals from the fields of information technology and communication. Omar Wasow, executive director of BlackPlanet.com said promoting technology to help convergence efforts is vital, but for him, “What makes a good journalist is one who asks good questions and thinks critically.” Aside from BlackPlanet.com, Wasow also has one-day-a-week appearances as an Internet analyst on The Tavis Smiley Show and on MSNBC. “You have to think for yourself. It’s not technology,” he said. Speaking of technology, panelist David Albritton, senior manager at Hewlett-Packard Co., showed off a new tablet computer that converts handwriting into computer text. However, to stress the importance of literacy over technology, Bennett asked the question: “Can you write a good sentence whether it’s on a paper tablet or a computer?” The panel, which also included Ken Knight, multimedia editor for the Tampa News Center, also stressed that while technology and converging can bring great benefits, the main goal – being a good journalist – must first be achieved. Wasow said this includes not only thinking critically, but also making sure you don’t get carried away with the idea of convergence. “Be stellar in one medium, and don’t elevate convergent media above being at least good at one thing,” said Wasow. Once you do become good in one area, tapping into more media markets will increase your chances of employment and perhaps even enhance your paycheck, according to the panel. Bennett encouraged NABJ members to “Go to school and get that Master’s degree or that Ph.D.” Speaking from her own experience, she added, “It’s not that hard. People make it seem like going back to school is difficult. But you all are smart, you’re competent.” Practicing convergence isn’t easy. As Bennett explained, you may have to take time to attend workshops, learn HTML to edit Web pages, learn Adobe Systems Inc.’s Photoshop photo-editing software, or take classes to learn more about software you never had to use in your primary field. |
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