NCTJ to pilot multimedia qualification across UK centres

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A new preliminary NCTJ multimedia qualification is likely to include new shorthand guidelines and social network writing tests.

It is designed to allow NCTJ journalists to train in print, broadcast and online. Some of the proposals include: a new 'reporting' exam to test knowledge of multimedia platforms; social networking and online writing tests; and a new multimedia portfolio including an video-editing exercise.

Public affairs reporting would no longer test for 'key terms' it was suggested. Media law would be in a single format examination, including broadcast law and Ofcom regulations.

In shorthand, one proposal included splitting the exercise as follows: two minute segment; gap; one minute segment; gap; one minute segment. Within that time there will be a "direct quote" which must be taken completely accurately, with no margin for error.

Before the plans are finalised, further consultation will take place with editors, tutors and trainers, the NCTJ said.

The new qualification will be piloted across a cross-section of NCTJ centres from September 2010, it was outlined at the recent Journalism Skills Conference.

Donald Martin, editor-in-chief of the Herald and Times and a director of the NCTJ and chairman of the Journalism Qualifications Board said the traditional differences in how journalists work in different areas of the media are disappearing.

"[A]ll sectors are looking for new entrants who are comfortable working across two or three platforms in the course of a working day," he said, at the conference.

"It's vitally important that we provide trainees with the core skills to allow them to work in whatever sector of the media.

"At the NCTJ we are working to ensure that training meets the requirements of the industry in all media sectors."