Moving publication online reflects change in times for journalism students

Thursday, 09 June 2016

After more than a decade of publication, Wintec’s journalism students are looking to the future and taking their annual publication, the Fieldays Exhibitor, to an online platform.

Aimed at the 1000-plus Fieldays exhibitors, the news publication is written and produced by Wintec’s School of Media Arts students as part of their course work.

For the first time in its 12-year history, the Fieldays Exhibitor will be available online only to allow exhibitors easier access via their smartphones.

Wintec journalism coordinator Charles Riddles says this change reflects the need to stay abreast of the latest developments in a fast-paced and ever changing industry.

“When we started the Exhibitor in 2004, paper-based magazine was still the common format. However the game has changed and the vast majority of people now access news on some sort of hand-held device.

“It is all about preparing our students for the world they will work in – and that world is definitely not paper-based.”

This change continues the evolution of the publication, which was started by former Wintec Editor in Residence, Venetia Sherson, and has developed over the years from a basic news format with some photographs through to a highly visual magazine with specialist design input from graphic design staff and students.

Journalism tutor Richard Walker says the new platform will allow for the content to be updated throughout the day and will give students the chance to hone technical skills they have been learning in the classroom, including videography.

“Online the articles will be shorter and the overall publication more visual, with a strong use of multi-media content including photography and videography.”

A dedicated mobile-friendly website has been set up to display the publication with assistance from Wintec’s digital design students.

Fieldays exhibitors and visitors can view the Exhibitor at www.exhibitor.co.nz (the site will be open from 6am on Wednesday 15 June and will be updated regularly).