Feb 13, 2007 in COACHING, MENTORING, TUTORING
2007 Multimedia Coach Tips -- How to Work With Your Multimedia Students
contact POH SI TENG
1. What is the best way to get to know my student?
When your student calls you to set up the first meeting, use this call to interview him or her over the phone. Ask students what areas they need help in and why. What would they like to achieve as a result of the coaching sessions? What are their short and long-term goals regarding journalism? At the first meeting make sure to exchange phone numbers and to set up a procedure for canceling meetings (e.g. where to leave messages for each other).
2. What do I do during our coaching hour?
Go over your student’s course syllabus, and ask him or her what the instructor is teaching in class. Your student might be in the process of selecting a story. If so, discuss whether the story will work as a multimedia package and why. You could also discuss how to use programs such as SoundSlides, Flash, Soundtrack Pro and other audio, video and multimedia production programs. Do talk about your own experience in editing audio, timing the images and the audio, and capturing video. Once your student begins acquiring sources and interviewing them, advise them on ways to acquire powerful quotes and effective soundbites. Spend your time talking about how to tell compelling stories through interactive media. We hope that you will enjoy coaching as much as the student will enjoy being coached. Have fun!
3. Where do I meet with my student?
A place that's convenient for both of you. Students are aware that they should be doing all the traveling if necessary. Some coaches meet their students in the news office, such as in a break room or cafeteria. Others prefer to meet their students in a quiet coffee shop near the coach's workplace or home. You can, but are not required to meet the student on campus. Just remember that the meeting place should be comfortable for you and the student. Once both of you have decided on a place, we recommend that you to make it a regular meeting spot.
4. What other things should I consider doing?
Students enjoy touring their writing coach's workplace. Some writing coaches have arranged for their students to sit in on news meetings, editorial boards and press conferences. Students enjoy watching coaches plan multimedia packages by working with editors, reporters and graphic artists. It would be wonderful if your student could accompany you on such meetings, if they exist.
5. What is my relationship to my student's instructor?
Some coaches have raised concerns that they might be contradicting the professor. This is not a perceived problem. All professors strongly support the coach program and welcome your calls.
6. What if my student isn't improving, seems less than enthusiastic or has doubts about pursuing a career in journalism?
Be honest. If the student isn't improving as you expected, say so. Ask them what's wrong and ask yourself the same question. Some students are still testing the water and are not sure they want to become journalists. By sharing your experiences you might be just the one who influences them to become a journalist. You are always welcome to call the Center or the student’s professor to discuss these issues further.
7. How will I know if I am actually helping the student?
After 15 years of experience with the coaching program, CIIJ is thoroughly convinced that coaches make a big difference. Faculty members see a discernible improvement in the work of their students who work with coaches. Some students reported that their classwork improved by one to two grades once they start working with a coach.
9. How do I end my coaching relationship?
You should plan to schedule your last meeting the week before finals week (usually mid-May or mid-December). Summarize your student's performance for the semester and give them job and internship advice.