Mr. Michael Peterman
Video Production/MovieMaking
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Through assigned readings, the viewing numerous videos, and the completion of a series of video assignments, you are expected to acquire a thorough understanding of the basic elements of Video Production. The student will demonstrate knowledge and appropriate use of hardware components, software programs, and their connections. The student is expected to:
(1) Demonstrate knowledge and appropriate use of digital and analog video systems, software applications, and communication and networking components.
(2) Compare, contrast, and appropriately use the various input, processing, output, and primary/secondary storage devices.
(3) Make decisions regarding the selection, acquisition, and use of software taking under consideration its quality, appropriateness, effectiveness, and efficiency.
(4) Delineate and make necessary adjustments regarding compatibility issues including, but not limited to, digital file formats and cross platform connectivity.
(5) Use vocabulary related to video technology; and,
(6) Compare and contrast linear and nonlinear editing.
(7) The ability to critique the strengths and weakness of
Video productions.
(8) Probably most important, the course will provide an
opportunity for you to create a variety of video productions, allowing you to express personal creativity and effectively translate these ideas into video productions.
POLICY ON LATE PAPERS AND ASSIGNMENTS
Meeting deadlines is central to broadcasting and telecommunications — if you want to keep your job.
Therefore, in this course deadlines on papers and assignments will be absolute. Your grade will drop a full letter grade for every day your paper or project is late!
Remember, spelling, punctuation and grammar all count in written work.
If you miss a class you are responsible to find out what happened and for any material that was assigned during the session you missed.
TEXTBOOKS
We will utilize information from several sources. A good online Text resource is Television Production by Ron Whittaker at www.Cybercollege.com
We will also utilized resources from Phillip Harris' "Television Production and Broadcast Journalism"
READING ASSIGNMENTS AND EXAMINATIONS
On www.Cybercollege.com There are interactive tests on the Internet that cover the Video Production modules and the hyperlinked articles. Mr. Peterman will tell you which readings are required, according to the four color codes:
Yellow, Blue, Red, and Green Readings
A green square in front of a link indicates information that's important to what is being discussed. This information is covered in the interactive tests and puzzles.
A yellow square in front of links indicates background reading. This material is not included on the interactive tests, but may be required for classroom tests.
A blue square indicates technical information. This type of information is designed for advanced classes and professionals, and, again, this may or may be required by your instructor.
A red square indicates external links that have related information. This information is not included on the interactive tests, but your instructor has the option of asking that you read this information.
Mesa Public Schools, CyberCollege and the InternetCampus have no control over the content or availability of these external links.
Links that are not marked with a colored square are considered self-explanatory. Your teacher will tell you which linked articles you should read along with the modules.
GRADING
1. Tests, quizzes and PROJECT work = 50% of grade.
2. Assignments and critiques = 35% of grade.
3. Class Participation = 15% of grade.
The criteria for the final grade in the course is as follows:
A = outstanding work; a 90% or above average on tests and written material; a demonstration of excellent production and editing skills; an ability to effectively critique the strengths and weakness of other projects; all work turned in on time.
B = an 80% average on tests and written material; an ability to meet deadlines; a proven ability in production and editing; strong critiques.
C = a 70% average on tests and written material; an ability to meet most deadlines and an acceptable grasp of editing and production techniques; a basic knowledge of basic critique elements.
D = a 60% average on tests and written material; however, student has fallen short in one or more major areas: meeting deadlines, an understanding of or the ability to effectively use production or editing equipment.
F = below a 60% average on tests and written material; student has fallen below the minimally acceptable requirements for the course.
TECHNICAL PROBLEMS
Problems with video and audio equipment are a fact of life in any broadcast or video production facility. However, "technical problems" are actually often "operator problems." If you encounter a significant technical problem in completing your assignment, you will need to indicate this by writing out a malfunction report. (See sample later in this syllabus.) When the video is shown to the class, it will be determined if the nature of the problem was (1) totally beyond your control, (2) the result of not fully understanding the equipment or its operation, or (3) potentially salvageable by employing a simple alternate approach.
Doing a short audio and video check before leaving the equipment checkout area can discover most camcorder problems. This also protects you. Because you are responsible for equipment, this procedure will uncover problems for which you might otherwise have been held responsible.
EQUIPMENT CHECK OUT POLICY
In order to provide effective service to all students we need the cooperation of the entire Mesa community. The following policies will help to ensure fair service for everyone.
Time Restrictions: Video equipment is to be checked out in accordance with the time restrictions found on Video Production Equipment Checkout Form. Any reservation that violates the time restriction is subject to adjustment.
User Responsibility: The user is fully responsible for equipment that is checked out under his/her name. Equipment that is not returned in good condition (e.g. missing cables) is the responsibility of the user, who must pay for repair and replacement charges.
Equipment Return: All equipment must be returned on time according to the end times indicated on the Checkout Form. If an item is not going to be returned on time, the teacher should be notified as soon as possible as to why the item is being returned late and when the item can be expected back to Video Production.
If any item is returned more than fifteen minutes late, the user receives a late warning. If that user returns equipment late again, he/she may receive a suspension of media privileges for thirty days.
A late fee of $5 per school day will be charged if this equipment is not returned by the first class period of the day on which the item is due.
PRODUCTION ASSIGNMENTS POSSIBILITIES
Each student is required to perform each studio position in a professional manner at least twice each semester before specializing in one or more positions.