The second annual national IRE conference devoted to computer-assisted journalism will be held in the heart of Silicon Valley this October. Whether your publication or broadcast outlet is just beginning to use computer-assisted techniques or is ready for more sophisticated approaches, this year's conference will have something for you. Some of the top practitioners nationwide will serve as instructors, offering classroom training in which each participant will work at his or her own computer. Conference participants will receive intensive, hands-on training in a variety of computer applications, including:
Basic PC use, including DOS and Windows How to use various spreadsheet programs How to use relational database software to further manipulate information How to download government tapes How to use on-line services, including Internet How to map data How to use statistical analysis software
The conference, beginning Oct. 6 at 8 a.m. and ending at noon on Oct. 9, also will feature panel discussions on issues affecting computer-assisted journalism, such as legal matters, ethics, and using computers for beat reporting and quick-hit stories.
Building on the strengths of the computer-assisted conference in Raleigh, the planners intend to expand advanced parts of the program while keeping a basic track for those who are just learning these techniques.
"This conference will be a great opportunity to learn to use the most basic and necessary tools for reporting," said Brant Houston, IRE's new computer-journalism director.
"Reporters and editors can no longer afford to ignore this area. After all, most information we will seek is or will be in electronic form."
Hosted by the San Jose Mercury News, the conference will also feature displays of products for computer-assisted journalism and a special demonstration of Mercury Center, the Mercury News' on-line newspaper service. A luncheon banquet, included with registration, will feature an exciting keynote speaker.
The conference site, the Westin Hotel in Santa Clara, features many amenities, including free parking, courtesy transportation from the San Jose airport and light-rail access to and from downtown San Jose.
For those who want to bring their families, the hotel is one block from the Great America theme and amusement park and is close to activities in San Jose, San Francisco and the rest of the Bay area.
Special conference hotel rates are available, but registration will be limited. So, register now.
Act quickly because registration in the hands-on classes is limited.
Hotel Registration Westin Hotel, Santa Clara
When you call, say you are an IRE participant. Call (800) 228-3000 or (408) 986-0700 to make your hotel reservation. Reservations made after Sept. 9 will be on a space-available basis, and rooms may cost more. Hotel rate is $89, single; $99 double and $109 triple.