Student Handbook
2010/11
BA (HONS) Journalism
Year 1 and Year 2 students
Dublin Business School Campus
DBS is a city centre campus, the main building is situated on Aungier Street, behind St Stephens
Green Shopping Centre. Please refer to the Map below for the location of our other main buildings.
Buses servicing Aungier Street directly are 16, 16A, 19, 19A, 65, 65B, 83 or 122. All Bus, DART, Luas
and Rail routes service the city centre with terminals close to the College.
Room Legend and Access Codes:
AS:
13/14 Aungier Street
BL:
Bow Lane (Door Code 9214)
GS:
Castle House, 73/83 South Great George's Street
DS:
19/22 Dame Street (Door Code 5371)
BSA:
6/9 Balfe Street Block A (Door Code 6305)
BSB:
6/9 Balfe Street Block B (Door Code 6305)
An interactive map of these locations, and others where lectures and exams may take place, is
available to view at http://www.dbs.ie/Location/AboutDBS/Dublin-City-College.htm
A map showing the main DBS buildings can be viewed on the next page.
The Table of Contents
1
Welcome to DBS
2
Programme Structure
3
Overview of Assessment
4
Student Services and Facilities
The following Supporting Documents are on (or links available through) the DBS website for Current
Students, follow the links to the Registrar’s Office then Student Handbooks:
www.dbs-students.com/Registrar
Academic Calendar and Term Dates
Academic Impropriety
Assessment Regulations
Code of Conduct
Complaints Procedures
Exams Office Verification/recheck Procedures
International Students Handbook
Moodle Users Guide
Personal Mitigating Circumstances Form
1
Welcome to DBS
On behalf of all the staff of the School of Arts, I would like to wish you a warm welcome to
Dublin Business School. We hope that your time with us will be very happy and productive for you
and that you will take the opportunity to participate as fully as possible in all aspects of our college
life.
Degree level education may prove quite different to anything you have experienced before
and over the next few years you will find yourself challenged and encouraged to grow both
intellectually and personally. You will be exposed to new ideas and perspectives, be asked to
articulate your thoughts clearly and effectively, and be equipped with the technical skills and the
knowledge base that will prepare you for the professional life of a journalist..
However, that is all ahead of you and in the meantime what you need is just some basic
information. That is the purpose of this handbook: it contains essential contact lists, details of library
and student services, and instructions for how to access important information and documents.
Please read it carefully and keep it for future reference.
It remains only for me to send you the best wishes of all the staff of the School of Arts.
John Lawrence
Programme Leader Journalism
John.lawrence@dbs.ie
01 417 8722
2
Programme Structure
BA (Hons) Journalism Year 1
Module
Lecturer
JRN1811L
Basic News Reporting
Lisa Jewell/Aingeala Flannery
JRN1813L
Introduction to Broadcasting
Kenny Leigh / Gemma Hill
MED1815L
Understanding the Image
Dragana Jurisic
JRN1812L
Journalism Learning Lab
Miriam Gormally
SSC1815
Social Policy - Historical & Cultural
Perspectives 1 (Semester 1)
Siobain O’Donnell
SSC1816
Social Policy - Historical & Cultural
Perspectives 2 (Semester 2)
Siobain O’Donnell
JRN1810
Information Technology for Journalism
(Semester 2)
TBC
MED1810
Media, Culture & Society I (Semester 1)
Stephen Henderson
BA (Hons) Journalism Year 2
Module
Lecturer
SSC2814
Exploring Economic Issues
Heikki Laiho
SSC2815
Exploring Political Issues
Heikki Laiho
JRN2811L
Shorthand
John Lawrence
JRN2813
News Story Analysis
Aingeala Flannery
JRN2810L
Feature Writing & Freelance Journalism
Lisa Jewell
JRN2815
Individuals, Society & the State
Stephen Costello
JRN2814
Media, Law and Ethics
TBC
JRN2812
Sub-editing I
Jensine-Bethna Wall
2.1
Programme Team contact details
BA (HONS) Journalism
Contact
Location
Telephone
e-mail
Programme Leader
John Lawrence
Castle House
01 417 8722
John.Lawrence@dbs.ie
Stephen Henderson
Castle House
Stephen.henderson@dbs.ie
Lisa Jewell
Castle House
Lisa.Jewell@dbs.ie
Kenny Leigh
Castle House
Kenny.Leigh@dbs.ie
Gemma Hill
Castle House
Gemma.hill@dbs.ie
Miriam Gormally
Castle House
Miriam.gormally@dbs.ie
Siobain O’Donnell
Castle House
Siobain.ODonnell@dbs.ie
Aingeala Flannery
Castle House
Aingeala.flannery@dbs.ie
Stephen Costello
Castle House
Stephen.costello@dbs.ie
Heikki Laiho
Castle House
Heikki.laiho@dbs.ie
Jensine-Bethna Wall
Castle House
J_bwall@yahoo.co.uk
3
Overview of Assessment
3.1
Assessment Strategy
There is a balance between continuous assessment and end of year examinations, but the former is
becoming increasingly the norm at DBS. Modules that focus more on practical activities are assessed
by continuous assessment.
Continuous assessment will vary in style and purpose from module to module, depending upon the
nature of the subject material and the teaching and learning objectives of the module.
The detail of the assessment proposed for each subject will be included in the relevant module
outline and distributed in the first class. In addition to the course outline an assessment schedule
will be distributed with a list of modules and submission dates. Please take note of this as it will aid
your planning and preparation for the submission of coursework.
The assessment regulations are on (or links available through) the DBS website for Current
Students, follow the links to the Registrar’s Office then Student Handbooks:
www.dbs-students.com/Registrar
4
Student Services and Facilities
4.1
DBS Library Service
Introduction
DBS Library comprises an undergraduate Library and a newly expanded Postgraduate/Law Library at
Dame Street. The Library at Dame Street also contains extensive psychoanalysis, psychology and
counselling resources. The Undergraduate Library is located on the second floor of the Aungier
Street building. The Postgraduate/Law Library is located on the third floor of the Dame Street
building, (a door code 5371, is required to access this Library). Maps indicating Library locations are
located on the Library Website (http://library.dbs.ie). The Library’s professional and experienced
Staff is on hand to assist you with all of your Library enquiries.
Library Opening Hours
The following opening hours apply during term-time (including all reading weeks):
Monday:
9.00 a.m –10.00 p.m.
Tuesday:
9.00 a.m –10.00 p.m.
Wednesday:
9.00 a.m –10:00 p.m.
Thursday:
9.00 a.m –10.00 p.m
Friday:
9.00 a.m – 9.00 p.m.
Saturday:
9.00 a.m - 5.00p.m.
Please note that the Postgraduate/Law Library opens at 9.30am. In the run up to exams, the Library
is open Sundays and bank holidays. Library opening hours remains extensive during the summer
with late opening until 10pm, four evenings per week and Saturday opening. Please consult the
Library Website or Library notice boards for further information.
What do Library collections contain?
Library collections encompass the arts, business and law. They include:
 50,000 books. All Library books are listed on the Library’s online catalogue: Heritage.
 196 print journals
 45,000 e-journals,
 An extensive portfolio of online databases.
 An extensive e-book collection.
 The Library Catalogue, the Library’s e-book collection and Ebsco databases can also be
searched on handheld devices such as Iphones.
How do I become a member of the Library?
As a registered student, you are automatically a member of the Library. Your DBS student card is
also your Library card.
How do I borrow books?
Each Library has self issuing stations where you can borrow, renew and return books. It is also
possible to renew books online via the Library Catalogue or by contacting the Library.
Undergraduate students are permitted to borrow 6 items and postgraduate students, 12 items.
Library Databases/Electronic Journals/Electronic Books
Databases, electronic journals and e-books can be searched on the Library Website. Please see the
graphic below. Subject portals on the Library Website group together information of relevance to
your subject area.
Library Databases include: Academic Search Complete, Business Source Complete, Computer and
Applied Sciences Complete, Emerald, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Dawsonera, Greenfile, Firstlaw,
FT.com, Film and Television Literature Index with Full Text, Hospitality and Tourism Complete,
JSTOR, Justis, Lexis Nexis (Butterworths), Lexis Nexis (News and Business), LISTA Full Text,
Marketline, Mintel, Pep Archive, PsycArticles, PsycInfo, Regional Business News, SOCIndex, WARC
and Westlaw.
What logins do I need to access the Library’s electronic resources?
All the log-ins details that you need to access various Library and IT resources at DBS will be emailed
to you shortly after you register with the college. You must activate your college email account to
access this email. If you do not receive this email, please contact the Library or follow the following
format/procedure when logging-on to the various resources:
PCs: The first time you log in, enter your student number for both the username and password. You
will then be prompted to create your own password. Henceforth your PC log-in details will be as
follows:
o
o
Username: student number
Password: ‘password of your own choice’
 Library Account: via the Library Catalogue (same as your PC login).
 Moodle: Same as your PC login
Please note that if you change your PC login, that change applies to your login to your Library
account and Moodle.
 Searching electronic resources (for off-campus only)
o
Email David.Hughes@Dbs.ie to request an Athens account. This will enable you to
search all electronic resources 24/7 from anywhere in the world
 E-Books
o
o
Username: student number
Password: date of birth – dd/mm/yyyy
What other facilities are available in the Library?
The Library provides access to:
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PCs
A wireless network
Printing facilities including wireless printing
Photocopying facilities including colour photocopying
Study rooms for collaborative study
PCs and Study rooms can be booked via the Library Website
How do I contact the Library?
Each Library site has a dedicated information point where staff can assist you with your enquiries.
You can also contact Library staff by phone, email or via the Library’s
instant messaging service called ‘DBS Ask a Librarian’ which is
available on the Library website. DBS Ask a Librarian enables you to
chat live with Library staff via the Library Website. You can also follow
Library developments via the Student Blog, Facebook and Twitter,
links to which are provided on the Library Website.
Key telephone numbers:
Information Desk, Aungier Street, Tel: 01 -4177572
Information Desk, Dame Street, Tel: 01 -4178745
Email: library@dbs.ie
Website: http://library.dbs.ie
How Can I learn more about using the Library?
 Library Classes: DBS Library employs a dedicated Information Skills Librarian, who provides
students with Library tours and inductions. She also runs a variety of classes on how to
evaluate and use information safely; essay writing, avoiding plagiarism and referencing.
Please consult the Library Website for further information.
 Library Guides/Handbooks: guides on how to use various Library resources as well as guides
on essay writing, referencing, avoiding plagiarism, conducting a literature review, etc. are
available on the Library website and in hardcopy in the Library. The Library also produces its
own student handbook as well as a quick guide to Library Resources. These are also available
on the Library Website.
 Information Points: Each library has an Information point that is manned by professional
staff who are there to help you get the most from the Library resources and facilities. Please
feel free to approach the desk with any Library query… big or small. Alternatively you can
phone, email or instant message the Library.
 Ask a Librarian instant messaging: this is available via the Library website. Just type in your
question and a member of the library staff will message you back straight away.
 Online Database Tutorials: Various databases also provide users with online tutorials and
help guides on how to use their search and browse facilities and much more.
4.2
Student Services
Contact Details
International Students Officer Louise Butler-Norris
Education & Welfare Officer
Caitriona McGrattan
Sports & Societies Officer
Tony Peoples
General Queries
Tel: 01 4170603 louise.butlernorris@dbs.ie
Tel: 01 4178748 caitriona.mcgrattan@dbs.ie
Tel: 01 4177585 tony.peoples@dbs.ie
Tel: 01 4170680 student.services@dbs.ie
Introduction
As part of the Library, Careers and Student Services Department, the Student Students team aim to
assist students during their time in DBS through a number of support services including a counselling
referral service, drop-in hours for international students and a welfare office. Students are also
encouraged to engage with the College and their fellow students through range of social and
sporting opportunities; a packed calendar of events and activities is planned each year.
International Students
The International Student Services Officer is based in Castle House on the fourth floor. Louise issues
letters for international students as well as providing a number of other services including;
facilitating homestays, and planning international events. The International Student Services Office is
open for new students and existing students with queries between 8am and 12pm, Monday to
Thursday. Outside of these hours students must apply online for letters via a link on the
international students’ intranet page.
Accommodation
The Student Services Dept has produced a number of guides and accommodation listings for
students seeking accommodation including a guide to the various student properties available in
Dublin’s City Centre, which is available on the Student Services website. There is also an
Accommodation Notice-board on the ground floor of Aungier Street.
Welfare
The Education and Welfare Officer has received training and is experienced in providing information
to students about a range of concerns including; accommodation, crisis pregnancy, sexual health
awareness, suicide intervention and many more non-academic issues. Caitriona also has links to a
number of support services both locally and nationally and refers students to these organisations.
DBS provides crisis counselling to students in conjunction with the Elmwood Centre for Counselling
and Psychotherapy in Baggot Street. Students may avail of three sessions free of charge and an
additional three on the request of their therapist/counsellor. Students may request a counselling
referral letter, needed to cover the cost of the sessions, directly from the Education and Welfare
Officer. Students can be reassured that their decision to attend counselling is kept private and that
their name will only be noted by the Student Services Officer who issues the letter for financial
reasons.
Dublin Business School is linked to the Aungier Street Medical Centre (Phone: 01-4005708). A
reduced fee of €40 per consultation is charged on production of a valid DBS student card. The Clinic
is open from 8.30am to 6.30pm Monday to Friday and Saturday 11am – 3pm. There is an
appointment system in operation so please remember to make one. Urgent cases will be seen
without appointment.
Please Talk
Please Talk is a national mental health awareness campaign, which urges students to understand
that talking is a sign of strength, not of weakness. And that if they experience problems while at
college, there are people they can talk to. At the centre of the campaign is the PLEASE TALK website,
www.pleasetalk.ie, which provides a list of support services that are available to students at their
college or university. DBS has a page on the PLEASE TALK website, which lists the support services
available to our students.
Student Complaints
Student complaints should be directed to the appropriate class level manger in the first instance, but
can also be lodged with the Education & Welfare Officer. Academic appeals should be directed to
the Examinations Office. Further details can be obtained on DBS’s Examinations Office webpage at:
http://www.dbs.ie
Entertainment
During the year you will find many events organised by Student Services. In fact there will be
celebrations for any excuse we can find during the year. Freshers’ Week, Graduation Ball Halloween
and Christmas celebrations, Refreshers’ Week, Chinese New Year, the Annual Formal Ball, Sports &
Societies nights, and class parties are just some of the events you’ll expect to see. Upcoming events
will be advertised on notice boards in DBS buildings, so keep an eye out.
Sports and Societies
One of the best ways to get involved in college is by getting involved in a club or societies. Our
students are encouraged to be active and play sport both at a competitive level and ‘just for fun’. As
well as the sports activities offered by DBS, the Sports and Societies Officer also has a number of
links with fitness centres, swimming pools and minority sports in Dublin’s City Centre. It is a great
way to meet people with similar interests and also develop a non-academic side to your time in the
DBS.
There are also many student-run societies that students can be involved with. These include Radio
DBS, LGBT Society, Drama Society, Film Society, Poker Society, The Christian Union name just a few.
There’s something for everyone and if students feel there is something missing, why not set up your
own society! Just get in touch with the Sports and Societies Officer to discuss this
During Fresher’s week there will be a Sign Up Day where you will meet the members of the various
sports and societies and you will be able to join. Each Club and Society will be organising events
during the year from parties to trips away to competitions.
Merchandise
Student Services have DBS-branded hoodies for sale. The hoodies are available in navy, grey or green
and in sizes small to x-large. They cost €20 and are available from either Student Services’ Offices.
Lockers
Lockers are available to rent in Augnier Street and Dame Street. They cost €20 for the academic year
(including the exam period and a week’s grace to clear it out). Students wishing to rent a locker in AS
should contact Caitríona, while those looking for a Dame Street locker should contact Tony or Louise.
4.3
Careers and Appointments Service
The Careers and Appointments Service offer support for students regarding career development
skills. In addition to useful seminars and training, individual appointments and an e-mail service are
available. Topics covered include:
•
•
•
•
•
Career Choices
CVs and Cover Letters
Job Search
Interview Techniques
Further Study
Visit the Careers website at:
4.4
Disabilities Services
http://www.dbs-students.com/Careers
Dublin Business School’s Disabilities Service aims to provide support for students with disabilities
and to assist the achievement of educational goals. Students with physical disabilities, learning
difficulties, mental health issues, ongoing illnesses or short term illness or injury should register with
the Disabilities Service to ensure they receive the appropriate assistance during their studies.
Disabilities Coordinator
Students should contact Carol Clifford, the Disabilities Coordinator, to register with the Disabilities
Service or to discuss any issues relating to disabilities. The Disabilities Support Office is located in the
Aungier Street building.
Support for Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities may wish to avail of:
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Assistive technology
Academic support
In class support
Special arrangements for exams
Counselling
Assisted access to facilities
Further details on disabilities support can be obtained from the Disabilities Office.
disabilitiessupport@dbs.ie.
4.5
Computer Services
The Computer Services department offers support to the student body in College IT related issues. Email, internet, online storage space, Moodle (intranet for notes etc) and course related software are
all provided for students at no extra charge. Students can contact the Computer Services
Department via the on-line form on the web link below, in person on the first floor of the Aungier St
building or by telephone on 01 4177573.
http://students.dbs.ie/computerservices/Student_Help.htm
Visit the Computer Services website at:
4.6
http://www.dbs-students.com/CompServ
Facilities
The Facilities Department maintain the building fabric of the building and manage the many services
providers to the college such as cleaning, security etc. In conjunction with these, this department is
also responsible for Health & Safety and Timetabling
Visit the Reception website at:
http://www.dbs-students.com/Reception