Student news and other events are usually found in official school publications that are written for the students by the students themselves. These may be in the form of newsletters or broadsheets that are published and distributed among the students and faculty. Technological advances have allowed these publications to take student news a step further by allowing them to publish their news reports and opinion articles online through websites dedicated to student publications.
Going Online
School papers are a source of news and information for students and since they are written by the students themselves, other kids can relate to the articles they read. Publications like these are usually considered extracurricular activities, but for some schools it’s a part of a journalism class offered as an elective. Traditionally, student publications are circulated on a monthly basis, but school newspapers have now reached cyberspace and budding journalists can now deliver fresh student news sooner. A couple of website hosting companies have branched out to hosting news sites for schools giving them a full-functioning website where student reporters can upload their articles, photos and videos of newsworthy events concerning their school or school district. There are different web design templates that give these sites personalities that are appropriate for their level. These sites are becoming more and more popular as more and more students have access to the internet using their home computers and even their mobile phones. Online newspapers are an important tool in developing the student body’s awareness of what is happening around them.
Responsible Journalism
Student journalism is a very important part of the academic experience. Students get to exercise their right to free speech and they get to learn about the responsibility that goes with this right. This helps kids learn the value of responsible journalism at an early age and it gives students a venue to express their opinions about issues that concern their generation. Publishing these news stories and articles online stresses the need to be responsible with the information we give out since online newspapers are available to a wider demographic and anyone can view the articles posted on the site. Faculty advisers need to be vigilant to make sure that their students understand their rights, as well as their responsibilities as student journalists. Teaching kids to write and read about important issues helps them grow into better adults who are more aware of what’s happening in the world today.