Educating For Tomorrow's Media
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2026 BEA Research Symposium
BEA2025 Recorded Sessions
BEA members and BEA2025 attendees can watch the recordings of these seven BEA2025 convention sessions.
BEA On-Location
Join us as BEA and CBI join forces in Denver!
Latest News and Updates
What’s the story? Teaching students to find good story ideas and develop them
Journalists need to be good storytellers at heart, but that starts with being able to identify a good story and then figure out how to tell it effectively. From large intro classes to reporting classes to capstone classes, students seem to struggle with the idea of what makes a good story. This panel will feature a variety of ideas for teaching students how to identify good stories in their communities, develop them and then present them in a compelling way.
Speakers: Jen Smith, University of Kentucky; Karen Russell, Tennessee State University; Boriana Treadwell, University of Miami; Lauren Bavis, Syracuse University; and David Stephenson, University of Kentucky
🗓 Wednesday, July 23
🕐 1:00 PM ET
💻 Virtual (Zoom)
BEA2026 Research Symposium: Communicating in an AI Driven World: The Impact of AI on Creators and Consumers of News and Entertainment
Artificial intelligence is changing the way the world interacts with machines and people, as well as how media organizations operate. As society grapples with the use of AI, those in the field of mass communication must consider the how the opportunities AI offers come with ethical ramifications. Professional organizations (RTDNA, PRSA, AAF, NAB) have adopted professional codes and guidelines for using AI in industry.
The 2026 BEA Research Symposium will examine AI research in mass communication. As AI is implemented, it is important to remember the human connection those working in the media industry bring to communicating information. Media professionals transmit information that is influenced by their broader understanding, shared background, and empathy. How can the media industry ethically adopt a technology that is disrupting how people seek, consume, and produce information?
The symposium welcomes qualitative and quantitative research from a variety of theoretical and methodological perspectives across social sciences. Click here for more information.
2025 Research Symposium Book Released: Mis/Disinformation and Democratic Society
This book seeks to show how mis- and disinformation is destabilizing our collective confidence in institutions fundamental to the functioning of democratic society, including our electoral processes, our perceptions of trust in government officials and institutions, our healthcare, education, economic, and media systems; and even our communities and interpersonal relationships. Topics covered in this book include the role of Artificial Intelligence in automating deception; how financial crises and journalistic norms in the news industry create favorable conditions for the amplification and laundering of political disinformation; and how our emotional states impact our susceptibility to misinformation. Throughout, the authors provide nuanced definitions of key terms such as “conspiracy theory” and “digital democracy” which help level the field for future research. Read more…
JOBEM Announces Two Special Issues
The Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media invites cutting-edge submissions for two groundbreaking special issues addressing critical intersections of artificial intelligence and electronic media. Submissions are due in late fall/winter 2025.
– Trust in Generative AI: Foundations, Drivers, and Implications
– AI, Misinformation, and the Future of Algorithmic Fact-Checking
Explore Our Membership Options
Individual Membership
Gain access to exclusive resources, networking opportunities, and professional development tailored for media educators.
Institutional Membership
Empower your institution with cutting-edge research, educational tools, and a platform for academic exchange.
Corporate Membership
Strengthen your organization’s media presence with collaborative projects and industry insights.
Student Membership
Connect with industry leaders and enhance your learning experience with specialized workshops and events.
Key Features of BEA
Innovative Curriculum Support
Our resources help educators develop cutting-edge curricula that prepare students for the evolving media landscape.
Industry Partnerships
We collaborate with leading media organizations to provide real-world insights and opportunities for our members.
Student Engagement
Our programs and competitions inspire students to excel and showcase their talents on a national stage.
Resource Library
Access a comprehensive collection of teaching materials, research papers, and multimedia content.
Why Should I join BEA as a...
Faculty at colleges and universities should consider joining the Broadcast Education Association (BEA) as individual members to stay at the forefront of media and broadcast education. BEA offers valuable benefits including access to cutting-edge research, professional development opportunities, teaching resources, and a vibrant network of scholars and industry professionals. Membership also provides opportunities to present at conferences, publish in peer-reviewed journals, and engage in leadership roles within specialized interest divisions. By joining BEA, faculty can enhance their academic and professional impact while contributing to the advancement of media education.
Join the BEA Community
Explore BEA's Interest Divisions
Explore BEA's Grants & Awards
Explore BEA's Journals
Colleges and universities offering electronic media courses should consider joining the Broadcast Education Association (BEA) as institutional members to enhance their academic programs and provide valuable opportunities for students and faculty.
Key Benefits:
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Free Student Memberships: Institutional memberships include complimentary memberships for all full-time undergraduate students, granting access to scholarships, competitions, and industry events.
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Creative Competitions: Students can participate in events like the BEA Film 48 and Audio Shorts Competition, fostering creativity and practical experience.
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Festival of Media Arts: This annual competition allows students to showcase their work, with winners receiving recognition and prizes. Festival results guide our yearly school rankings.
By joining BEA, institutions can enrich their educational offerings, support student success, and stay connected with industry advancements. For more information and to apply, visit the BEA Institutional Membership page.
Explore the BEA School Rankings
The BEA School Rankings provide a comprehensive overview of the top institutions excelling in media education. These rankings are a valuable resource for prospective students and educators alike, highlighting schools that lead in teaching, research, and creative output. Discover which schools are setting the standard in media education and shaping the next generation of media professionals.
BEA provides undergraduate and graduate students with unique opportunities to connect with peers, educators, and industry leaders. Members gain access to scholarships, competitions, career resources, and exclusive networking events at the BEA convention.
Undergraduate Students:
- Participate in creative competitions and media festivals
- Network with industry professionals and potential employers
- Access career development tools and internship opportunities
Graduate Students:
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Present research and creative work at national conferences
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Publish in academic journals
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Build academic and professional networks for future faculty or industry careers
Joining BEA opens the door to academic growth, career advancement, and meaningful engagement in the evolving field of media and broadcasting.
Discover the BEA Festival of Media Arts
The BEA Festival of Media Arts is a prestigious event that celebrates the creativity and innovation of students and faculty in media education. This annual festival showcases a wide array of projects, from film and video to interactive multimedia, offering a platform for emerging talents to shine. Join us to experience the future of media arts and connect with industry leaders.
Explore the BEA School Rankings
The BEA School Rankings provide a comprehensive overview of the top institutions excelling in media education. These rankings are a valuable resource for prospective students and educators alike, highlighting schools that lead in teaching, research, and creative output. Discover which schools are setting the standard in media education and shaping the next generation of media professionals.
Join BEA Today!
Unlock exclusive resources and connect with a vibrant community of media educators and students. Discover the benefits of BEA membership and enhance your professional journey.