Digital Media

1. Introduction to Digital Media

Digital Media refers to content created, shared, and consumed through digital platforms like websites, social media, and mobile apps.
Includes text, images, audio, video, animations, and interactive media.

Purpose: To inform, engage, and influence audiences in a fast-paced, digital environment.

2. Digital Storytelling

The use of digital tools (audio, video, graphics, etc.) to tell stories effectively online.
Combines traditional storytelling with technology and multimedia.

Key Elements:

Narrative: A clear structure (beginning, middle, end).
Multimedia Elements: Images, video clips, music, narration.
Audience Engagement: Interactive features like polls, comments, or share buttons.

Example: A climate change story that includes video interviews, infographics, drone footage, and social media reactions.

3. Multimedia Production

Students learn to plan, create, and edit content using digital tools.

a. Types of Multimedia Content

Text: Articles, blogs, captions, scripts.
Audio: Podcasts, interviews, background music.
Video: News packages, documentaries, social clips.
Photos/Graphics: Infographics, photo essays, charts, memes.

b. Tools & Software

Graphic Design: Canva, Adobe Photoshop.
Video Editing: Adobe Premiere Pro, CapCut, Final Cut Pro.
Audio Editing: Audacity, Adobe Audition.
Web Publishing: WordPress, Wix, Blogger.

4. Online Journalism

Digital platforms have changed how news is gathered, produced, and consumed.

a. Features of Online Journalism

Real-time updates (live blogs, social media posts).
Hyperlinks for deeper context.
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) for visibility.
Audience Feedback through comments and shares.

b. Writing for the Web

Write in short paragraphs, use headings and bullets.
Use SEO keywords in titles and content.
Add multimedia elements to break up text and enhance engagement.

Example: A mobile-friendly news article with a short headline, video clip, infographic, and clickable links.

5. Social Media in Journalism

Social media platforms like X (Twitter), Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok are major channels for news.

Uses:

Sharing breaking news instantly.
Engaging with audiences through comments, polls, and stories.
Crowdsourcing information or feedback.
Building a personal brand for journalists.

Example: A journalist live-tweeting from a press conference while uploading video clips to Instagram Stories.

6. Challenges in Digital Media

Misinformation & Fake News: Need for verification.
Audience Attention Span: Must create short, engaging content.
Copyright and Fair Use: Must respect ownership of digital content.
Digital Fatigue: Users are overwhelmed by too much content.

7. Digital Media Best Practices

Be ethical: Fact-check before sharing.
Be visual: Use images and videos.
Be interactive: Encourage likes, shares, and comments.
Be mobile-first: Optimise for phones and tablets.
Be data-informed: Use analytics to track audience behaviour.

8. Career Opportunities in Digital Media

Digital Journalist
Multimedia Producer
Content Creator / Social Media Manager
Video Editor
Data Journalist
Podcast Producer