2009 Fall DOCST 135S-01
Bulletin Course Description Recording techniques and audio mixing on digital editing software for the production of audio (radio) documentaries. Various approaches to audio documentary work, from the journalistic to the personal; use of fieldwork to explore cultural differences. Stories told through audio, using National Public Radio-style form, focusing on a particular social concern such as war and peace, death and dying, civil rights. Instructor: Biewen
(Instructor named in bulletin description above may not be current. For current instructor, see listing below.)
Title INTRO TO AUDIO DOCUMENTARY Department DOCST Course Number 2009 Fall 135S Section Number 01 Primary Instructor Biewen,John H Prerequisites
Synopsis of course content
Introductory class in recording and mixing audio for the production of audio (radio) documentaries. Class learns field recording techniques and audio mixing on Pro Tools editing software. Class also explores various approaches to audio documentary work, from the journalistic to the narrative to the personal.
In this course we explore recent work in the flourishing field of audio documentary and learn the basic skills required to use audio as a documentary language. We'll cover the process from beginning to end — from microphone placement and choosing the right interview setting to focusing and scripting your story, to digital mixing. Each student completes a short documentary.
The theme for this semester’s course is The Art of Farming. Following up on a nationally-broadcast documentary series, Five Farms, students will produce audio documentaries on North Carolina farmers and collaborate with photography students on a multimedia project. Completed student pieces will be posted on iTunes U.
Recording equipment provided. Students have access to digital editing workstations on which to complete class assignments. The lab fee is $85. (Limit 12)
Textbooks
TBD
Grade to be based on
Midterm project assignment (project outline): 20%
Final project assignment (completed documentary): 40%
Class attendance and participation: 20%
Writing and other weekly assignments: 20%
