Stories of Interest
This project is a collaboration between students enrolled in JOUR 332: Feature Writing
and ECON 403: Money, Banking and Monetary Theory. Based on enrollment numbers,
one journalism student will be paired with
three economics students.
Objective: To produce a multimedia feature (podcast, video, etc) that examines one
aspect of the macroeconomy related to money, banking and monetary theory. The
journalism student will provide the structure and production of the feature, emphasizing
the need to make complex concepts understandable to the average Joe. The
economics students will provide research and explanation of the concepts being
researched.
Topics: There will be seven groups. These groups will be formed with economics
students initially who will pick from one of the following topics (each topic can be used
only once). Then a journalism student will be assigned to each group.
-
How do interest rates affect consumer spending?
How do interest rates affect business spending?
How have tariffs (and the threat of) affected the US economy?
What are the goals and tools of monetary policy?
Is the dollar’s status as the world’s reserve currency in jeopardy?
What is the basis for central bank independence? Is it currently under pressure
in the US? How about other major central banks?
What are the chances that a crypto currency such as Bitcoin or Ethereum
overtake established global currencies such as the USD or Euro?
Explore the Buy Now Pay Later industry, with emphasis on its growth, affect on
consumer spending and GDP, and the potential risks it poses.
Deliverable: A 3-to-5-minute multimedia feature. Each student needs to speak on the
final product at least once. Consider incorporating the economics students at
economists or experts on the topic that are able to provide insight on it.
Grading Rubric
PERFORMANCE RUBRIC FOR UNDERGRADUATE PRESENTATION
CRITERIA
Total Point Value
Critical Thinking
MARGINAL
0 – 69%
Misinterprets
data/information, gives
unjustified arguments
ACCEPTABLE
70 – 89%
Mostly identifies
relevant
data/information, gives
justified arguments
Lacks essential
information
Includes most essential
information, some
supporting details
Disjointed, jumps
around, conclusions
are unclear
Generally organized,
some topics are out of
order, conclusions are
generally clear
20 points
Not clear or
understandable, lack of
delivery techniques
Grammar and Spelling
3 or more errors
Engages audience,
fluid delivery, clear and
understandable, avoids
reading slides, invites
questions
1 or 2 errors
Text is very difficult to
read, graphics/effects
are distracting,
cluttered layout
Visually attractive, most
text can be read easily,
graphics/effects not
necessarily beneficial
20 points
Quality of Information
20 points
Organization
20 points
Oral Presentation
SUPERIOR
90 – 100%
Thoughtfully and
accurately interprets
data/information, shows
in-depth understanding
of major ideas
Covers topic
thoroughly, includes
details that support the
topic
Well organized and
coherent, topics are in
logical sequence,
includes clear
introduction and
conclusions
Well prepared, speaks
clearly, makes eye
contact with audience,
delivers with ease,
invites questions
No errors
10 points
Visual Design
10 points
Visually appealing,
clean simple layout,
text is easy to read,
graphics enhance
understanding of ideas