This course is an interdisciplinary study of film, video and audio production. Emphasis is on the creative and technical aesthetics of basic content production which includes: composition, terminology, lighting, sound, and linear vs. non-linear structure. Our course will explain the technical processes, rules and ethical considerations that you will face when making media. You will be challenged to create media that elicits emotions and changes minds. Also, the course overviews various types of media production a film/video student could pursue in commercial, corporate or artistic applications.

Overall Course Objectives | Major Course Topics | Course Format | Orientation |
Course Requirements | Texts and Materials | Exams

Overall Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course the student will be able to:

• Understand the effects of media coverage.
• Practice the basic artistry of manipulating sound and image.
• Be able to critically analyze the methods of media imagery, narratives and genres.
• Compare and contrast essential media skills such as research and production.
• Understand basic skills in scripting, composition, lighting, sound design, camera placement.
• Understand the essential terminology associated with sound and image production. 
• Learn about possible carreers int eh film and video industries.
• Discuss the effects of audio and visual media on individuals and societies.

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Major Course Topics

• Production
• Developing Story Ideas
• Composing the Frame
• Basic Sound and Lighting Design
• Linear and Nonlinear Structure
• Approaches to Production, Exhibition and Distribution

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Course Format

• The syllabus lists course readings, homework assignments, projects, quizzes and exams.
• This schedule is posted within the course and is available for students all semester.
• Does not require on-campus meetings.
• Does not require real-time chats.
• Weekly modules will contain all readings, materials and links necessary for the week ahead.
• Communications will take place through e-mail and scheduled posted threaded discussion questions (weekly).

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Orientation

This course has no required face-to-face orientation.

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Course Requirements

Review the “What you should know before you register” section of the Distance Learning home page.

• Quizzes and examinations are administered online. All quizzes and examinations are multiple choice, true-false, and short anser.
• Active participation in the forums is mandatory.
• Three additional ‘hands-on’ projects will be assigned.   

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Texts and Materials Required:

Making Media: Foundations of Sound and Image Production - 3rd edition [paperback]

Jan Roberts-Breslin | Focal Press, 2012 | ISBN: 978-0-240-81527-5

Additional textbook information:  Please visit www.howardccbooks.com and follow the instructions for selecting textbooks

Technical Requirements and Plug-Ins:

Review the Technical Requirements link above. The following software or plug-ins are required for this course:

• Acrobat Viewer
• Flash
• A Current Browser (Firefox, Safari, Explorer or Chrome)
• PowerPoint Viewer, if you don’t have the full version of Microsoft PowerPoint
• QuickTime
• Real Player
• Windows Media Player
• Word 2007 (or better)
• Audacity

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Exams

For purposes of verification and assessing learning outcomes, this course may have online testing or proctored exams at the HCC Test Center for students in the local region or at a regional institution for remote students. The exam will have a flexible window of time during which it needs to be taken rather than a single date and time. 

If you have any questions or comments about this class, please send a message to

Anthony J. Hoos, thoos@howardcc.edu

Last updated on 13-March-12
© Howard Community College, 2012

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