This module introduces students to key concepts in Public Relations and Journalism, emphasising their overlap and synergy, along with skill development. Students learn effective media navigation and critical thinking about both fields and their relationships. This module will foster students' capacity to identify the different angles/biases through which news and to identify the role PR has in shaping perceptions strategically. Both rely on effective media communication. Exploring these synergies helps students understand how communication bridges PR and journalism.

On successful completion of this module students will demonstrate an understanding of PR practices and techniques, exploring their intersections with journalism. Despite their distinctions, PR and Journalism frequently collaborate and mutually depend on each other. PR professionals often pitch stories to journalists on behalf of clients, while journalists, in turn, rely on PR professionals as sources of news for individuals and organisations. Students will acquire insights into the ethical responsibilities of PR professionals and the PR toolbox, which encompasses press releases, media pitches to journalists, event coverage and press launches, crisis communication plans, surveys, and research

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: 1.Demonstrate an understanding of how Public Relations (PR) and Journalism are interconnected. As a result, students will be able to critically analyse media content through a PR lens with a solid understanding of contemporary journalism structures and practices. 2.Demonstrate an understanding of core theories in both PR and Journalism, enabling them to discern the strategic communication underpinnings in journalistic contexts. Furthermore, students will demonstrate an understanding of the ethical requirements shaping media narratives, recognising how these dynamics impact the media landscape.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: Demonstrate an appreciation for the symbolic relationship between PR and Journalism. Acquire an understanding of the ethical considerations and responsibilities inherent at the intersection of PR and Journalism, fostering a comprehensive grasp of media communication. Analyse and evaluate ethical challenges and opportunities by engaging with case studies and real-world examples that arise when PR strategies intersect with journalistic integrity.

On successful completion of this module, students will be able to: N/A

This module consists of a three hour lab, with a particular focus on the intersection of Public Relations (PR) and Journalism. During the lab, students will be introduced to essential concepts that highlight the interplay between PR and Journalism, particularly their dynamic interaction within the media landscape. This lecture will explore how PR strategies can influence journalistic content and how media narratives can be shaped by strategic communication considerations. Students will engage in interactive activities such as creating press releases, and video news releases, and discussions will take place, designed to deepen their understanding of the PR-Journalism intersection. Workshops will provide a hands-on approach to enhance comprehension of media content in the context of PR and Journalism. Students will actively participate in tasks that involve dissecting media campaigns, evaluating journalistic sources, and deconstructing the language employed in media communication. Readings will encompass a blend of contemporary research findings and seminal texts, allowing students to grasp the evolving dynamics of PR and Journalism. This approach will equip students with a holistic perspective on the subject matter, enabling them to critically engage with real-world scenarios where PR strategies intersect with journalistic endeavours. This module is crafted on the principles of fostering a Curious, Agile, Articulate, Courageous, and Responsible approach in the realm of Public Relations (PR) and Journalism. Recognising the inherent value of cooperative professional development, participants are encouraged to engage actively in discussions that cut across disciplines, exploring both the theoretical and practical aspects of PR and journalism in the contemporary context. The face-to-face and online sessions are designed as platforms for structured reflective discussions, focusing on learning, teaching, and assessment specific to PR and journalism in the Irish higher education landscape (Graduate Attribute: Curious). Participants articulate their decisions and beliefs regarding PR and journalism practices, fostering a culture of articulation (Graduate Attribute: Articulate). The module challenges participants to critically examine and rationalise their decisions, contributing to an environment where courage is paramount. Agility is a core principle as participants collaboratively explore a diverse range of issues in PR and journalism. The module facilitates the sharing of practices and the development of knowledge within the sphere of academic research related to the scholarship of teaching and learning in PR and journalism (Graduate Attribute: Agile). The delivery of the module embraces open educational practice principles, ensuring responsibility in the application of PR and journalism concepts. Structured around pedagogical patterns and a community of inquiry approach, the module provides learning activities that actively engage participants in reflective practice, guiding them to design modules for future delivery while justifying pedagogical rationale and the use of educational technologies (Graduate Attribute: Responsible). In summary, this module takes a practical approach to PR and journalism education, blending theoretical insights with real-world applications. Participants are not only equipped with theoretical foundations but are also encouraged to apply them courageously in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of PR and journalism. The assignment involves designing and storyboarding a module, guaranteeing constructive alignment of learning, teaching, and assessment strategies with the intended outcomes for PR and journalism modules. This comprehensive approach enriches the learning environment and contributes to a positive and impactful learning experience.