Grading Criteria, Assessment and Standards
1.3 Attendance Trainee reporters are expected to be highly motivated and understand the importance of the newsroom and team working culture associated with the media industry. Given the fluid nature of journalism not all class contact hours will take place in the newsroom. Lectures will start promptly and trainee reporters are required to be punctual. For first years: Lecturer discretion whether or not to impose a penalty for non-attendance. A maximum penalty of 10 per cent is allowable. If a lecturer decides to impose marks for attendance a sign in sheet must to used so as to record attendance / non-attendees. For second and subsequent years: Regular attendance at both lectures and tutorials is highly recommended, however the decision to do so is vested with the individual trainee journalist. Ordinarily no marks are awarded for attendance, or deducted for non-attendance, although the decision to do so is vested with the lecturer in consultation with Course Director.
1.4 Freelance submission As its core, journalism is centred on publications. In that vein, journalism trainees are encouraged to seek publication of their work in local and national media. Before doing so however it is advisable to seek advice from a member of the journalism faculty. This advice does not take from trainees’ express right to freedom of expression granted under Bunreacht na hÉireann; the European Convention on Human Rights; and the United Nations Convention on Civil and Political Rights.
1.5 Feedback Results of continuous assessment feature articles, in as far as is practicable, should be communicated to students within 10 working days of submission, so as to ensure adequate and timely feedback. First year writing feedback may need to be detailed so as to provide specific pointers to students on improving. Similarly for broadcasting, specific and detailed feedback may be required on techniques used etc in order for students to learn appropriately. Results should include a detailed breakdown, using a marking sheet if desired, of the quality of student reporters’ work as well as comments and suggestions on how to improve. Feedback should be based on grading criteria. Face to face feedback is also acceptable and may be advisable on occasion, however written feedback should accompany any face-to-face feedback meeting. Opportunities for resubmission for assessment as learning through feedback (Race, 2009) may be considered by individual lecturers. Audio feedback is also acceptable.
1.6 Deadlines
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