Magazine Editing & Publishing I - The Student-Led Newsroom Experience

written by Lily Carroll for Special Project: Experiential Learning in Journalism

The Magazine Editing & Publishing course is provided through the School of Journalism, guiding students through the many phases of production involved in the creation of a magazine. This three credit course is the first of a two-part series, of which students are given an opportunity to work with Blending Newsletter and Magazine, produced through the University. Students are called to explore Florence beyond the obvious attractions, exploring topics like arts, gastronomy, travel and so much more.

This interactive project meets on a regular basis throughout the week, and requires additional hours to participate in the magazine production process. This course requires no prerequisites, so any and all students are encouraged to get involved. Through Community Engagement Member Institutions, students are able to experience a hands-on approach to learning the inner works of a magazine. 

Magazine Editing & Publishing I aims to provide students with basic knowledge and skills regarding editorial design, and traditional magazine elements. Students have the opportunity to familiarize themselves with team/masthead relations, along with text and visual accompaniment fit for publication. Through class lectures, discussions, and projects, the course prepares students for the magazine industry. 

This course operates in a two-part method, beginning with course content in a classroom lecture and discussion environment. Students are walked through the basics of InDesign, and the editorial process. Next, students collaborate on publishing duties for the Blending Newsletter and Magazine. Students get the opportunity to write, design, photograph, etc. as a professional magazine staff, and will finish with a complete magazine that they made as a class.

Students are divided into groups, each of which covers a different section of the magazine. For instance, one group is assigned to the Art and Design section, and are called to explore the art and design scene in Florence, looking past the typical stereotypes found in the city center. Students write stories, and gather visual accompaniments that they will then assemble for publication. 

“I want to gently push the students to look beyond the stereotypes of Florence.” The instructor of the course, Alessandro Calonego explains, “So, they are going to make efforts to go out of their comfort zones, and write articles based on an unusual perspective.” 

Using InDesign, students learn how to take their written and visual story elements, and design them as magazine layouts. Learning the principles of design, grid anatomy, and Gestalt theory prepares students to design their own written and visual elements. Students get to explore different variations of page layouts, and develop an editorial eye for content placement. 

AUF aims to enhance students’ educational experience by providing hands-on learning experiences. By creating an entire magazine together, this course prepares students for all aspects of the publication process. While not all students will go forward with careers in magazines, these skills are important for careers in all areas. Students will expand on their writing, interviewing, design, and team collaboration skills. All of which will be incredibly useful for careers in many fields.