Digital technologies have dramatically reshaped the media ecosystem and how news and information is gathered, distributed and consumed. These changes have challenged and redefined the nature and practice of traditional journalism, along with the relationship between journalists and readers. Professional reporters and traditional media outlets now share the media stage with tweeters, bloggers, citizen journalists -- anyone with a social media account -- who can and often do play critical roles as fact-gatherers, information distributors, commentators and more.

Therefore, ICO 013H will introduce students to the characteristics and issues related to digital journalism in both a Kenyan and global context. The aim of this course is to provide an overview of technological changes in journalism as well as their impact to the society. It’s important for students to understand how the Kenyan Media industry is operating, challenges players in the industry face as well as the unending changes taking place and how they are likely to affect the industry in the future.

 The course is structured in such a way that encourages the student to sharpen his/her critical thinking skills about the era of Digital Journalism. It is a learner centered course that comprises discussions in class as well as their experiences with digital journalism. Lectures will complement reading assignments given to students. Each student is encouraged to go through class notes before each session so that each can participate proficiently in the subsequent classes.