Today’s sophisticated media consumer is more skeptical than ever. With the proliferation of “fake news” and the volume of data that can be manipulated to tell any side of a story, journalists have to be able to provide crucial proof points. This unique partnership between UChicago and WBEZ represents a best-in-class approach to addressing these critical new challenges in the current media landscape.

Generously supported by WBEZ

Underwritten by generous donations from people who care as much as you do about speaking truth to power, you can access the combined knowledge of WBEZ and UChicago for a personal investment of only $125.

• Original cost: $2500
• Automatic scholarship from WBEZ applied: $2,375
• You pay: $125

Apply now

WBEZ gratefully acknowledges Sylvia Neil and Dan Fischel for their generous support of WBEZ’s training and development initiatives designed to strengthen local journalism.

Learn from UChicago Faculty & WBEZ

You’ll learn tools, tactics, and methods directly from tenured University of Chicago faculty, who are leaders in evidence-based approaches to solving intractable social problems and using data analysis to uncover the truth in any story.

You know that WBEZ represents one of the most trusted news outlets in the country focused on unbiased reporting, and brings a depth of understanding of the new challenges journalists face today.

Program Overview

Foundations of Evidence in Data Journalism is a two-day symposium designed and led by University of Chicago faculty in partnership with WBEZ to provide journalists with methods to separate credible from non-credible evidence, distinguish causation from correlation, and avoid common pitfalls in interpreting quantitative evidence.

In-class instruction, pertinent examples, and group exercises provide participants with core principles to improve their use of data across the newsroom. The course does not focus on methods or tools used for data visualization.

Who Should Attend

Participation is open to working reporters, editors, producers, and other journalists. Applicants should demonstrate that their associated outlet regularly produces data journalism (broadly construed). Preference is considered for journalists generating news content for or from the Chicago-area media market.  

Schedule & Logistics

December 9–10, 2019 at the University of Chicago Keller Center in Chicago, IL. The course is 9am – 5pm on both days. See the full program agenda.

Once admitted, the registration fee to confirm your attendance is $125. Learn more about the program fee and logistics.