Associate Professor Evonne Whitmore has taken her journalism experience and expertise to Cairo, Egypt for the 2008-2009 academic year.

She is a Fulbright Fellow at Ahram Canadian University teaching classes in broadcast journalism and conducting research on Egyptian media credibility. Whitmore has taught Intro to Broadcasting, Online Journalism, Television Practicum, Broadcast Reporting and Advanced Broadcast Reporting.

The teaching practices in Egypt are similar to those in the United States, Whitmore says. The professional practice of journalism however, shows significant changes overseas. However, there is a difference in the way journalism works in Egypt because of the rule of emergency law, she says.

“The law has placed a somewhat chilling effect on the way some journalism is practiced,”says Whitmore. “It is not unusual for journalists to be detained for indefinite periods because of what they choose to publish.”

Journalists limited by law

The law puts speech limitations on what journalists can say, and can put journalists in jail without a trial or hearing. Whitmore says it is her responsibility while in Egypt to educate the students on what is acceptable according to the law.

According to Whitmore, journalism students in Egypt are a lot like American journalists. She says they like professional learning opportunities and have experience with news packages and radio programs.

“I have had great success with my students,” says Whitmore. “They are motivated and eager to learn.”

Whitmore is also working on plans for a joint master’s degree with Kent State and Ahram Canadian University. Whitmore will return to the United States in July.

By Stephanie Johnstone for The Co-Lab.