Challenges Facing Students of Graduation Projects at the Faculties of Media at Yarmouk and the Jordanian Middle East Universities: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Objectives: The study aims at identifying the challenges faced by media students at Yarmouk University and the Middle East University in completing their graduation projects.

Methods: The study relied on the media survey method, applied to a stratified random sample of 173 media students from Yarmouk University and the Middle East University who completed their graduation projects during the first semester of the academic year 2022-2023.

Results: The results of the study showed that the majority of media students at the Middle East University and Yarmouk University completed their graduation projects by themselves, within their specific specializations. The most prominent journalistic genres for students' graduation projects were: documentary film, television report, and press interview. Personal challenges were found to be the most significant hurdle for students in completing their graduation projects, as they often took the graduation project course alongside other courses, leading to delays. Administrative challenges followed, related to booking university studios and using their tools, as well as policies and procedures specific to completing graduation projects and their requirements. Finally, there were technical challenges related to design skills and writing using various technologies and software.

Conclusions: The results demonstrated the necessity of allocating the final semester or summer semester of the final year to the graduation project course, enabling students to complete their projects without pressure or challenges. Additionally, clear policies or mechanisms should be in place in media colleges to ensure fairness in booking university studios.