Not what they want, but what they need

Abstract

There is an issue around getting students engaged in subject matter about which they may have little interest. Often, such subject matter is essential to their studies. The module Essential Public Affairs is such a concern for students of journalism. It is essential for their professional qualification. This article explores a pilot project which developed ways to get students more engaged with the subject material. The consequences of such engagement could be seen in the assessment results and the future study choices of those students in the pilot.