Alumni donations put tech in student hands
Remember the Mac Lab? How about the cameras, software and computers you used as a student in J&PR classes, working for The Orion and at TGC?
Much of the equipment alumni – even recent alumni – had their hands on likely doesn’t exist anymore.
It has to be updated frequently to keep up with industry trends and give students hands-on experience with the latest technology.
And here’s a secret: Chico State pays for little of that equipment; it’s largely funded through alumni donations – and always has been.
J&PR has its own learning labs and is responsible for maintaining and upgrading that technology, with technical support provided by the College of Communication and Education’s tech support team.
Here’s what students are using today:
Vuze 3D 360 4K
These 360-degree cameras were used by students in CAGD/JOUR/MADT 398, “Virtual & Augmented Reality for Media & Gaming” in fall 2017.
As well as by students experimenting with 360-degree storytelling for various upper-division journalism classes.
GoPro HD Hero 2
This GoPro produces high-definition video and stills.
It was purchased by Tehama Group Communications for use on client projects.
It’s useful for video time-lapses and in-action video.
Canon EOS Rebel 3Ti
This camera’s utility is enhanced by a Canon EF 40mm lens and Shure VP 83F Lens Hopper, which is a camera-mounted shotgun microphone. TGC uses this camera because it’s capable of live-view shooting, full-HD video recording and wireless flash photography.
It is used for client events, branding and social media.
Apple IPad 4
Tehama Group Communications uses this iPad for updating their social media channels and monitoring client analytics.
It’s a useful tool that the whole agency has access to.
Camera Canon EOS 20D
The Orion’s Canon EOS is coupled with a Canon AF 28-200mm lens and Canon Speedlite 580EX II.
The Speedlite, a hot-shoe flash, allows the camera to sync with the flash at high shutter speeds.
Nikon D3400
The Orion’s new Nikon camera is Chico State Cardinal red, and came with several different lenses along with a really nice case.
It’s a great addition for quality images in the student-managed newspaper.
Microsoft HoloLens
The HoloLens mixed-reality headset was first used in CAGD/JOUR/MADT 398, “Virtual & Augmented Reality for Media & Gaming.”
Students had the opportunity to get their hands on this expensive, ground-breaking technology and analyze its potential for news coverage and PR applications.
Røde VideoMic GO
The Orion’s on-camera shotgun microphone plugs directly into a smartphone microphone/headphone socket.
It is lightweight and great for recording interviews and events. It’s shown here attached to The Orion’s Nikon D5300.
Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 300mm
This practical and compact lens has excellent balance, speed, and quality image. Its sharpness is ideal for sports, wildlife, and travel.
The Orion has some great opportunities for close ups with this lens.
Canon EOS Rebel T5
This Tehama Group Communications Camera is beginner friendly for photo and camera usage. It has easy to use settings and expanded ISO range for outstanding operation in various qualities of light.
It is used to produce high-quality images for client, shown here with TGC’s Canon EF 50mm lens.
DJI Ronin M 3-Axis Brushless Gimbal Stabilizer
This compact stabilizer weighs only five pounds and has been used for a range of TGC’s client work.
The stabilizer has a fast set up and has precise balancing for professionally stabilized video.
AP Stylebook 2017
This handy book may not be a piece of technology, but it is just as useful and crucial for students to learn.
Some things never change.
Canon EOS 50D
This Orion camera includes a DIGIC 4 Image Processor for great detail and superior color reproduction. It also features a refined clear-view LCD Monitor.
It captures high-speed and quality images with precision.
Canon EOS 20D
The EOS 20D is perfect for advanced and amateur photographers in The Orion. It is compatible with all EOS lenses and flashes. It is designed to capture rich images that are normally found in cameras that are twice the price.