Module catalogue: SJ5076

SJ5076 - Introduction to Shorthand (2024/25)

Module specification

Module approved to run in 2024/25

Module title

Introduction to Shorthand

Module level

Intermediate (05)

Credit rating for module

School

School of Computing and Digital Media

Total study hours

150

45 hours	Scheduled learning & teaching activities
105 hours	Guided independent study

Assessment components

Type	Weighting	Description
In-Course Test	40%	In-class test (40 wpm)
In-Course Test	50%	In-class test (60 wpm)
Coursework	10%	Engagement with class, assessed by online journal and moderated by tutor

Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)

No instances running in the year

Module summary

This module introduces students to the basic techniques of teeline shorthand, transcription and voice recording.
It requires regular attendance and practice to develop speeds of up to 60 wpm, as required by professional accrediting bodies.
It will be assessed by three in-class tests and journal reflecting on class contribution, moderated by tutors.

Syllabus

Introduction and practice in teeline shorthand will be combined across weekly sessions with discussion of the ethical importance of accurate recording. Use will be made of voice recorders and transcriptions.
Sessions will briefly explore the different settings in which journalists need to record others' voices, from interviews and vox pops to court sittings to conferences and debates.
Constant coaching and feedback from staff and other students will quickly foster students’ development as so that they will be able to use their skills in journalistic settings, particularly on newsdays and in reporting situations such as Council debates and news conferences.
Assessment through in-class tests and journal (moderated by tutor) is aimed at developing well-grounded self-confidence in professional skills.

Learning Outcomes LO 1 - 4

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

The module will be taught by a programme of weekly sessions, comprising an hour a day three times a week for 15 weeks. In these sessions, techniques will be introduced and practised. In addition, students are expected to practise in their own time and use online tests to dvelop professional skills.
Since the aim of the module is to introduce students to both a necessary skill for professional journalists and to the ethical need for accuracy, in whatever form recording takes, newsdays and newsweeks will incorporate coaching sessions.
Feedback will be given one-to-one, in class and electronically.
The module will be supported by a VLE site containing notes, tests and weblinks.
Full support will be given for developing pdp, for professional training.

Learning outcomes

If students read all the required texts, participate in all the class activities and complete the required assessments and assignments, they should be able to:
1. record a variety of interviews, speeches, conferences at up to 60 wpm;
2. judge when different recording techniques will be appropriate;
3. produce adequate and useful transcriptions;
4. explain why recording is important for ethical journalism.

Bibliography

https://rl.talis.com/3/londonmet/lists/67E047A1-F712-251B-A64B-1059EE3B2666.html?lang=en-GB

Textbooks:

Core Text:
Johnston, D. Teeline for Journalists, Heinemann (2006)