The iLearn blended learning programme for working journalists in four Indian states (Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal) is in its final stages. 

In August and September 2005 nearly 120 journalists attended face-to-face courses in Lucknow, Bangalore, Chennai and Kolkata.  The workshops were delivered by international trainers from the Danish School of Journalism and the BBC World Service Trust and co-trainers from the Delhi-based Indian Institute of Mass Communications (IIMC) and the Bangalore-based Indian Institute for Journalism and New Media (IIJNM).

The journalists taking part are currently working in one of four languages - English, Hindi, Tamil and Bengali.  The focus was on specialist skills:

·        Newspaper features
·        News management
·        TV special reports
·        Investigative Journalism
 
The success of the blended learning programme delivered to date, was demonstrated by the level of positive feedback from trainees and trainers alike.  The programme is a blend between face-to-face workshops and online or virtual courses.  The trainees are currently working on the Online specialists courses in the 4 languages. 

They will be completed in October-November 2005 with coaching sessions aimed at consolidating the learning points and assessing impact.  The Indian partners in the programme will be able to continue using the material for their future journalism courses.