Teaching photojournalism and cultural activities

Abstract

Teaching photojournalism courses at the University of São Paulo’s School of Communication and Arts (ECA-USP) provides a pedagogical tool that contributes effectively towards increased access to culture through the advocacy of university extension programs. The course entitled Elements of photojournalism, part of the Graduation Programme in Journalism, is structured around theoretical-practical methods, in conjunction with two cultural and extramural activities: Espaço D’Ávila and the Photojournalism week. These pedagogical fronts interact with each other and stimulate social awareness. Using culture as a reference, photojournalistic instruction promotes an interdisciplinary dialogue by teaching the value of news reports, of creative editorial guidelines and reflexive stimuli. The dissemination of culture broadens knowledge and develops professional qualifications. Furthermore, it reveals production within a public university, recognizes the value of student image-making and contributes to the standardization of university extension programs.