Wolves on the Front Page: Wesleyan's Local Democracy Lab

A new program at Wesleyan College is giving students more than a lab-and-lecture seminar---it’s putting them in the newsroom. This hands-on experience allows participants to gain real-life insight into the fast-paced world of journalism.   

The Local Democracy Lab is part of Wesleyan College’s experiential learning program, designed to enhance students' education through hands-on experiences and off-campus learning opportunities. This program aims to develop students' professional skills, particularly in writing and communication. All majors are welcome to participate, with the only requirement being a commitment to detail, as noted by Dr. Thomas Ellington.

Dr. Ellington was the driving force behind this initiative. Being a Wesleyan professor of political science and a journalist himself, it was his passion for these disciplines that led to the formation of two pilot programs. 

As a result, a cohort of students is gaining valuable experiences in journalism. By collaborating with the Macon Melody, Wesleyans are engaging in real investigative work to publish groundbreaking and compelling articles for audiences in the Macon community and beyond.

“I get to see some very talented students take the training wheels off and do some things that they didn't necessarily think they would be capable of going in,” stated Ellington. 

Students can participate in this workshop as often as they wish. This allows those who partake to develop their skills and eventually mentor future participants in the program.

Through this “protege effect,” or “learning by teaching,” students continue to enhance their abilities as effective communicators.

While conducting research for his first book, Dr. Ellington was moved to pitch this initiative. Inspired by his observations of communities with little to no news coverage and little media presence, combined with the decline in physical news publications in recent years, Dr. Ellington was motivated to launch this program in hopes of bringing accessible news and media to underserved communities. 

While this program will not produce a bachelor's degree in Journalism, this program gives students the advantage of real-world journalistic encounters, which improves their abilities in communication, writing, and confidence. 

Those interested in learning how to participate may contact Dr. Ellington at ellington.wesleyancollege@gmail.com