How CNN Academy redefined global journalism training through immersive simulations at scale
“It’s been great, we treat Titus as a strategic consultant. We’re managing a lot of different projects and proposals, so we always come to Titus and say, ‘We’re thinking of doing this, what’s the solution?’ We look to them to come back with innovative ideas that are quick to roll out. So far, we’ve had a great run with Titus. They’ve helped us reach a much larger market area.”
Alireza Hajihosseini, Director of CNN Academy and Deputy Bureau Chief of CNN’s Abu Dhabi production hub
Result
Named a 2024 Learning Technology Awards finalist in the category Best Use of Simulations or Virtual Environments for Learning.
Number of Learners
1000+
Use Case
WordPress
Media
System
Moodle LMS
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CNN Academy, the educational arm of the global media giant CNN, is dedicated to training the next generation of journalists. Through collaborations with six universities worldwide, CNN Academy offers cutting-edge journalism programs that equip students with real-world reporting skills. However, to deliver an innovative, interactive, and scalable learning experience, they needed a robust digital learning partner and they turned to Titus.
Our partnership has transformed CNN Academy’s approach to digital learning, creating an ecosystem that blends traditional education with immersive, real-world simulations, ensuring future journalists are prepared for the fast-paced world of news reporting.
The Challenge: Scaling a Global Digital Learning Model
As CNN Academy expanded its international reach, it needed to strengthen its digital foundations to support growth and programme delivery:
1. Limited system capacity for growth: Existing tools needed to support a larger international learner base without compromising performance or user experience.
2. Rising volume of applications: A significant surge in global interest led to a dramatic increase in applications. This created pressure on internal teams to manage, review, and process large volumes of submissions within tight timeframes.
3. Disconnected digital workflows: There was a need to connect learning delivery, simulations, and public programme information into one cohesive, user-friendly ecosystem.
4. Scalability constraints for future cohorts: As partnerships grew and cohorts increased, the existing setup raised concerns about long-term scalability and sustainability without structural changes.
5. Need for a strategic technology partner: The scale and ambition of the programme required more than a traditional LMS provider. CNN Academy needed an innovative, long-term digital partner capable of supporting complex simulations, global growth, and continuous evolution.
These issues limited the Academy’s ability to scale its audience, streamline processes, and deliver a professional learning experience.
The Solution: Developing a scalable digital learning ecosystem in 3 phases
To address its evolving global needs, CNN Academy partnered with Titus to develop a scalable digital learning ecosystem delivered in three phases, each designed to strengthen virtual learning, streamline operations, and expand programme reach.
Phase 1: A Custom Moodle LMS to Power Virtual Learning
In 2021, CNN Academy approached Titus to develop a bespoke Moodle Learning Management System (LMS) to serve as the digital backbone of their journalism training program. The goal was to create a seamless platform where students could upload their findings from simulation exercises, allowing educators to review and assess their work in real-time.
This custom Moodle installation became the central hub for CNN Academy’s virtual learning days, ensuring smooth content delivery, real-time assessment, and collaboration between students and mentors.
Phase 2: Managing a Global Surge in Applications
As CNN Academy’s reputation grew, so did its reach. In 2022, the Rockefeller Foundation joined forces with CNN Academy to sponsor students from the Global South, enabling them to take part in the program. This led to an unprecedented wave of applications, requiring a fast, efficient, and scalable solution to manage the selection process.
With only two weeks to implement a system, Titus introduced VideoAsk, an interactive video application that allowed students to submit their applications via recorded responses. This solution enabled CNN Academy to process over 15,000 applications, identifying the most promising candidates in a structured and efficient manner.
Phase 3: A Public-Facing Website to Expand CNN Academy’s Reach
Building on the success of the virtual learning program, CNN Academy sought to expand its digital presence by developing a dedicated website to promote its bachelor’s degree e-learning programs in partnership with leading universities.
Working closely with the CNN Academy team, Titus developed a custom website designed to:
✅ Promote CNN Academy’s journalism programs to prospective students.
✅ Provide seamless access to learning materials for current students.
✅ Offer an intuitive and branded user experience, ensuring consistency with CNN Academy’s core LMS.
Our team crafted a user-centric design that aligns with CNN Academy’s brand guidelines, creating a cohesive and engaging digital learning experience across both the website and Moodle platform.
Long-Term Support: A Strategic, Proactive Partnership
Our work didn’t stop at development. Titus continues to support CNN Academy with a proactive support package, ensuring the long-term success of the platform. Through:
Ongoing technical support to keep the platform running smoothly.
Custom training and how-to guides for CNN Academy’s team.
Regular UX/UI enhancements to evolve alongside learner needs.
This long-term strategic partnership ensures CNN Academy remains at the forefront of digital journalism training, empowering learners worldwide with the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Results: Proven Impact and Scalable Results, Sustainable Growth
Built on a close and strategic partnership, the collaboration between Titus and CNN Academy delivered clear results across innovation, scale, and sustainability.
Award Recognition
Global scale achieved
Immersive learning impact
The Future of Journalism Training: Powered by Innovation
From facilitating high-intensity journalism simulations to managing a global surge in applications, Titus has played a pivotal role in CNN Academy’s digital transformation. Our collaboration demonstrates how technology, strategic thinking, and innovation can come together to redefine digital education on a global scale.
“It’s been great, we treat Titus as a strategic consultant. We’re managing a lot of different projects and proposals, so we always come to Titus and say, ‘We’re thinking of doing this, what’s the solution?’ We look to them to come back with innovative ideas that are quick to roll out. So far, we’ve had a great run with Titus. They’ve helped us reach a much larger market area.”
Alireza Hajihosseini, Director of CNN Academy and Deputy Bureau Chief of CNN’s Abu Dhabi production hub
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