The Role of Student Editorial Practice in Journalism Degree Programs

The article addresses the issue of the meaning of student editorial practice in teaching in journalism degree programs. It aims to discuss theoretical matters related to this kind of extra-formal activity and to present a specific example of how a student press editorial office functions at the University of Szczecin. The author’s interest is focused around the benefits that accrue from this kind of student activity regarding the acquisition of knowledge, practical skills and soft competences, as well as shaping attitudes indispensable in their future work in the media. In the initial theoretical part of the article, the assumptions of modern teaching in journalism programs were discussed with a reference to models of teaching that function in European countries, with the significant role of practical teaching of journalism skills also indicated. The latter part of the article is a specific case study that includes a closer look at the ways of implementing student editorial activities conducted simultaneously with the content of the study program. The analysis covers general assumptions, organization of work in an editorial office, a description of the publishing activity of an editorial office and the issue of student press in the space of the new media. Moreover, an attempt was made to assess the effectiveness of the conducted activities. In conclusion, the author states that being active in student media may constitute a valuable complement to obligatory student apprenticeships and allow students to perfect their journalism skills on an ongoing basis throughout the course of studies.