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First-Ever Cajcar By Robert Washburn
The importance of computer-assisted reporting in modern journalism can not be denied any longer-simply read the cover stories from the Nov, 1993 issues of the Columbia Journalism Review and the American Journalism Review to understand the significance. Author Stewart Brand is quoted in the CJR article from his book, The Media Lab, saying, "Once a new technology rolls over you, if you are not part of the steamroller, you're part of the road." The Eastern Ontario chapter has taken these words very seriously. In co-operation with the Computer-Assisted Reporting Network, a one-day workshop has been organized for Saturday, January 29, 1994, at Loyalist College in Belleville. Three seminars will be offered on the practical skills needed for computer-assisted reporting. They will be aimed at beginner to intermediate computer users. Participants will be able to take two courses over the day, they will hear a presentation from Ottawa Citizen editor Peter Calamai on computerized access to government records, during lunch. The first seminar, an introduction to computers called "Hardware, software, shareware and where to go-how to get started" will provide a solid foundation. It is a basic introduction to computers and various types of software currently available, The second session is a beginners' guide to Cyberspace. This will introduce participants to online databases and bulletin boards using a modem. Finally, there will be a presentation by Pulitzer Prize finalist James Heaney of the Bufalo News. His story on slum housing will be the example for this seminar,which will include a step-by-step analysis of CAR techniques. He will also provide information on how computer-assisted reporting can be set up in any newsroom. This day of training is being offered for $35 to CAJ members and students and $55 for non-members. This will include two sessions plus lunch. Through the generous donation of time from many individuals, we have been able to keep our costs down to make this important workshop available to as many people as possible during these recessionary times. BUT SPACE IS LIMITED!!!
Published in Sources 33, Winter 1993/1994 Sources, 812A Bloor Street West,
Suite 201, Toronto, ON M6G 1L9. The Sources
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