The management of writing and interpretation as communicative and semiotic acts in journalism students

Abstract

In a context of increasing use of technology, social media, and, in recent years, artificial intelligence, the academic training of journalists faces significant challenges. First-year students often exhibit deficiencies in writing, text interpretation, and their ability to make sense of reality. This mixed-methods study applied a pretest to 18 students in 2021 and 20 in 2025, complemented by a focus group and a review of regional studies. Results confirmed deficiencies in news writing, limited media consumption, and lack of interest in producing social media content. Students view journalism as both a technical and social process, with ethical and existential dimensions. Commitment to training will be essential to consolidate writing and interpretive skills in a context marked by global disinformation.