SLCC Embraces New Media Environment

The old Hollywood joke used to run up to the punch line, "Yes, but what I really want to do is direct." In today’s multimedia-rich environment, though, the gap between media producers and media consumers is ever shrinking

Just a few years back, reaching mass audiences with multimedia content was primarily left to the major networks and to big businesses with deep pockets. In today’s world, the ability to communicate via mobile phone, online chat, and desktop video conferencing has reached the masses.

To be an active member of the community, to be an informed citizen, and to succeed in business, students must be willing to embrace new communication technologies.

"I can watch TV on my cell phone," said Nick Burns, Director of Globe Student Media (GSM). "That’s totally cool, but what’s that mean to today’s students and consumers?"

The SLCC Communication Department and GSM are dedicated to embracing new media and broadcasting development.

The Department offers two degrees in new media and broadcasting: an Associate of Science (AS) degree in Communication, or an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in multimedia and broadcast Audio/Video production.

SLCC gives students hands-on experience and the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge to get into the workplace.

Students studying Mass Communication will learn studio and field production, postproduction editing, and multi-media delivery. Students blend their study of aesthetic visual imaging and sound design together with the video production process.

Mass Communication courses offer learning-based environments, and are designed to engage students to fully participate in the material. Each student brings a new perspective to the course content and has the ability to provide valuable insight into how different demographics interpret media presentations.

Students learn to become active viewers of visual media, rather than mere passive receivers of information.

As students participate in coursework, they become more engaged in media. They begin to broaden their knowledge and to think critically, to communicate effectively, and to grow through ethical considerations and civic engagement.

The Communication Department strongly encourages interdepartmental collaboration and provides important opportunities for students in all areas of study to learn and incorporate multi-media content in each of their courses.

GSM, through television and radio, the web, and print, helps to offer that connection.

GSM sets the SLCC Communication Department apart from other college programs. GSM provides a valuable step between coursework and working in the real-world. GSM offers students a paid learning environment that supports application of skills to create and produce media for a wide variety of real-world clients.

The Communication Department and GSM also collaborate to provide students independent study opportunities and valuable internships with local media partners. These experiences assist SLCC graduates to be more marketable.

As multi-media content continues to surface in all areas of life, a degree in communication gives students endless possibilities as they move to the workforce.

"It’s a big wide world of media out there," said Burns. "The Communication Department and Globe Student Media help students find jobs, have fun, and stay on top of the world."