The goal of JLDN Radio is simple: to give journalism students a platform to put theory into practice. It's a safe environment where they can produce their own news bulletins, features, music shows, and sports programs, gaining firsthand experience of a live broadcast environment. The station serves as a bridge between the classroom and the industry, allowing students to build a portfolio and develop a professional work ethic.
For an educational programme, the biggest challenge is finding technology that facilitates learning, rather than getting in the way. The university needed a platform that was so easy to use that students could get started instantly without getting bogged down in technical details. The focus had to be on editorial skills and content creation, not on complex software.
"You want it to be more or less transparent. So you can actually focus on your program, your news stories, your editorial issues, rather than any technical details. That should be the easy bit."
By using a broadcasting platform that's easy to navigate, students can dive right into enhancing their storytelling and production skills without getting sidetracked by complicated tech issues. This practical experience is vital for preparing them for the dynamic media landscape, where being adaptable and skilled is essential.
Using Radio.co, the university set up a professional-grade station quickly and affordably. The platform's accessibility and ease of use were the key factors in their choice, delivering on several 'must-haves':
JLDN Radio has become an integral part of the journalism course, providing students with invaluable, real-world skills. From learning teamwork in a newsroom environment to understanding the discipline of broadcast timings, students are gaining the confidence and practical experience they need to step into the media industry. For many, it's a direct stepping stone towards their career goals.
