Role of the Adviser

The role of the adviser is a very difficult one to balance. Broadcast advisers must be very knowledgeable of not only the technical components of video, but also many other areas as well.

For a career switcher, understanding how to advise a student-run production may require a lot of on the job training in classroom instruction. In a similar fashion an adviser who has many years in the classroom, but few in a broadcast capacity, might feel overwhelmed with learning how to teach the staff journalistic skills.

Here is a list of ten objectives a new, or experienced adviser, should strive to achieve:

1. A healthy and maintained relationship through solid communication with the students, faculty, administration, and the community.

2. An understanding of how to motivate students to do their best.

3. A structured work environment and a detailed schedule of production.

4. A student staff that knows how to work independently.

5. A student staff that is receptive to feedback and able to implement changes to improve their work.

6. A knowledge of student press rights.

7. A clearly articulated ethical standard that guides the staff’s actions.

8. An understanding of where to find answers to questions.

9. A determination not to do the students’ work. Do not film, write, or produce for the students. It is their show. They will work better if you keep away from the production.

10. A promise to let the students make the decisions. Let them decide what will be in the show or in the video. Instruct them, and then let the students come up with the ideas and implement their journalistic skills.

As an adviser, growth will take place every year you are in the classroom and studio. The understanding of the role will no doubt evolve with the long, rewarding hours you spend with your staff.