Upcoming hands-on CAR training

IRE and NICAR are offering hands-on computer-assisted reporting (CAR) training this summer, including a Boot Camp in Columbia, Missouri and a specialized GIS mapping workshop, with follow-up support provided to participants.

IRE and NICAR have several training opportunities for journalists seeking hands-on instruction in using computer-assisted reporting.

This summer marks the last chance this year for in-depth CAR training. There is one remaining CAR Boot Camp in Columbia, Mo., for journalists who want to learn how to acquire electronic information, use spreadsheets and databases to analyze the information and to translate that information into high-impact stories. IRE and NICAR provide follow-up help after participants return to their news organizations.

The Boot Camp is Aug. 1-6. The Boot Camps will be offered again four times next year, along with other specialized workshops.

Journalists interested in learning how to use geographic information systems (GIS) in their reporting can register for the Mapping Data for News Stories mini-boot camp Aug. 20-22 in Columbia, Mo. The sessions will include address geocoding, thematic mapping, overlaying and spatial analysis.

Those who attend the mapping mini-boot camp will be eligible to purchase GIS software at a discount. In many cases, the cost of the training session and discounted software is less than the full price of the software alone.

For more information on the mapping workshop and other training opportunities offered by IRE and NICAR visit www.ire.org/training: