Limited to approximately 20 participants, the Weidenbaum Center Media Retreat brings writers, reporters, editors and producers together with academic experts for an intense, interactive seminar that examines the role that numbers, statistics, and data analysis play in the news, public policy, and politics.
Participants are required to attend all sessions and meals. Because of the immersive and interactive nature of the retreat, spouses, family, and friends are not able to attend. The 2012 event will take place over June 24-27.
Seminar Focus & Goals
In every field of reporting, from health policy to the environment, from the latest income numbers to the trade deficit, measurement and analysis of numbers play a central role. Where do these numbers come from? How do activists across the political spectrum misuse data and analysis to advance their agendas? When is a number reliable and when is it no better than a wild guess?
The seminar has four goals:
- to give journalists the tools and techniques to analyze how numbers come into being,
- to help journalists better evaluate and investigate the validity of these numbers,
- to help journalists utilize numbers to substantiate or refute a story, and
- to assist journalists with new story ideas for challenging conventional wisdom.
Who Will Benefit from This Retreat?
The ideal participant is anyone who deals with public policy issues, broadly defined — health care, the environment, trade, the work place, or politics — any area where numbers and data help the media tell the story. The Weidenbaum Center's 2011 Media Retreat will help you to better analyze the information you work with. Join us for a stimulating four days.
Location
Wianno Club in Cape Cod
There are three places to fly to: Boston, Providence, and Hyannis. Providence is one hour and 45 minutes from Osterville. Boston is 90 minutes, but much more fraught with uncertainty. Hyannis is ten minutes away (you can fly directly from La Guardia to Hyannis).You can also take the train into Providence from New York or Washington.
There are scheduled complimentary shuttle services from the Providence, RI, airport/train station, from the Boston airport, and from Hyannis airport.
Attire
Attire is business casual. However, the Wianno Club requires collared shirts for men at all times, evenings require jackets & ties for men.
Leisure Time
There is an afternoon of leisure time. You can participate in golf, tennis, a Seal Cruise or just enjoy the beach. We'll let you know the costs of golf and tennis when you arrive.
Expenses
All lodging and meals during the seminar are covered by the sponsor as long as participants attend all required sessions and meals. A portion of the participants' transportation costs to the Cape Cod area will be covered by the Weidenbaum Center. Other costs incurred during the seminar such as long-distance phone calls or additional food and beverage service must be paid by participants.