Reel Communications

TEACHING: GIVING BACK

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Teaching TV & News production is a great joy for me! 
It’s my opportunity to “give back”.

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To see students at the beginning of the semester wide eyed and tentative….and as the semester progresses, to observe them in the control room and the studio – collaborating to create a show, operating the equipment, using the nomenclature, and functioning as a team...this literally gives me goosebumps!

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My studio production classes are based on my own experiences as a student. They provide exciting challenges, camaraderie and a firm foundation.

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These classes are hands-on workshops where every student rotates through every crew position - including directing, camera, stage managing, etc…as well as performing in front of the camera. This provides for a nice “smorgasbord” experience where everyone gets a sample taste of everything. Consequently, students may discover a particular job function that attracts them. Additionally, no matter where they ultimately land if they pursue a career in the industry, it gives students an appreciation for the talent required by each and every position and professional on the team. 

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Broadcast News Production is also a “hands on” production workshop intended to help students develop their writing, camera and editorial skills…the know-how to enter the workforce as a digital journalist and/or producer. Emphasis is on research, writing, interviewing, reporting, recording video and audio, editing, and producing - all while applying the standards of fair and accurate journalism.

Teaching TV is more than teaching the right button to press. My goal is for my students to grasp and understand “the why” behind “the how”. To that end, open dialogue with and among students is strongly encouraged. They are regularly urged to question things they don’t understand. 

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Despite how critical people skills are to be successful in the industry, they are frequently overlooked in TV production classes. In my courses, collaboration is strongly emphasized. My intent is to impart respect for and the value of soliciting team input for problem solving. And sharing my relevant real-life professional experiences reinforce concepts taught in class. 

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And finally, skilled instruction should provide an atmosphere where students can be creative, take risks, and have fun in the process. Where else can you do that? This is the place!

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For me, teaching is truly a two-way street…it’s essentially a collaborative effort because instructor and student are reliant on each other for the process to work effectively. 

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My hope is that if I’m having fun, the students probably are too….and are learning in the process.