Abstract

CSJ-10.0031.0 This case allows students to consider the societal debate over the business models for future journalism, whether universities have a role to play, and whether good journalism is a civic obligation. It provides a bird’s-eye view of the state of local journalism and is a vehicle for class discussion of whether university journalism programs should help to fill a rapidly worsening void in political reporting. The University of Kentucky and Kentucky State University have an opportunity in 2009 to create a student-run news bureau in the state capital, Frankfort. Some experts have urged universities to step in where local reporting staffs have been cut or eliminated, arguing that schools could give their students valuable reporting experience while fulfilling the crucial civic function of watchdog journalism. The question is particularly germane for non-metropolitan areas like Kentucky, where a university contribution would not merely complement, but substitute for local news coverage. But does the concept make sense? What are the costs and benefits, and do benefits outweigh costs? Is this exploiting students, or educating them? What are the financial and legal ramifications of using student-produced stories? Who is in charge? Who is the customer? Educators at both universities have to mull these questions and others as they explore how to build a collaborative news operation.

Use this case to encourage students to think about the role of journalism in a democracy, particularly political journalism. Students can discuss the changing face of the news industry and whether universities have a significant role to play. They will have a chance to examine the intersection between academe and civic life, asking how each feeds the other. Is this project likely to succeed? Is it fair to students? Is it fair to readers?

This case can be used in a course on democracy and media; local reporting; or the business of media.