This document provides an introduction and overview for JRN 572 - Researching & Writing the News Documentary course. It introduces the professor, Rich Hanley, and previews some documentary films that will be watched. It outlines themes that will be covered like history of documentaries, conceptualizing ideas, research, scripting techniques, and a major final project. Students will learn about turning ideas into documentaries through readings, assignments, and discussions posted on Blackboard. The goal is to take ideas from conception through a fully realized treatment and draft script.