IMPORTANT NOTE
The Film/Media Studies Production Practicum, ENFS 340, is a repeatable, rotating-topic studio course that should be taken for .5 credits. Because of the way courses are listed, it may default to .25 credits when enrolling. This should be changed to .5 by either the student or the registrar. In the event that changing the credit amount causes the student to overload, that student can either seek advisor permission to enroll or audit the course. Students who audit are not graded and do not receive credit towards their degree. Auditing should only be done by students who want exposure to the material covered, but cannot overload and do not need the course credit.
If you have any questions, please speak to myself or the registrar.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The history of cinema is full of iconic title sequences and memorable graphic design. In this course, students will learn to create dynamic motion graphics of their own, using advanced software such as After Effects and Premiere Pro. Students will explore the use of typography, color, movement, and pacing as they create title sequences, credits, lower thirds, animated logos and more.
The course is taught using live demonstrations of the necessary software techniques as well as in-class discussions of relevant examples. Students will create weekly projects to practice these skills and explore stylistic choices. These projects will be examined and critiqued as a group.
COURSE GOALS
The first major objective of the course is for students to gain an understanding and appreciation of motion graphics and title design. Students will review and discuss examples from throughout the history of film, with an emphasis on how factors like typography and movement inform the stylistic, narrative, and thematic qualities of the work. The second major objective is to learn the skills necessary to create dynamic, engaging motion graphics, using advanced editing and graphics software such as After Effects and Premiere Pro.
FILM/MEDIA STUDIES PROGRAM GOALS
Students taking courses in the Film/Media Studies program will learn:
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the surprising array of divergences and convergences in the vast international history of film, broadcast, and digital media.
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a working vocabulary of key formal techniques, patterns, and styles in film, broadcast, and digital media and to analyze those elements within various theoretical frameworks.
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the technical skills required to produce original and thoughtful work and how to develop an artistic vision that applies an understanding of the aesthetics, theory, and history of moving image practice.
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how media have both encoded and resisted culturally dominant ideas and forms in production, distribution, and reception.
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to effectively research film and media through scholarly and archival sources and then elegantly present arguments, new ideas, and analysis in written and multimedia essays.
MEETING TIMES
Class meeting time: Wednesdays, 8:30 to 9:52 am, Marts 003
My office hours are Mondays 10:00am – 12:00pm, Marts 003. Other times are available by appointment.
MATERIALS
No books are required for the course and the software is available on computers in the Digital Video Editing Lab (Bertrand Library 018) and the Video Production Studio (Marts 003). Students will need their own external hard drive with a USB 3.0 connection and at least 500GB of storage space for storing files and projects. 1TB drives are available on Amazon at at the Bertrand library equipment desk for around $60.
POLICIES AND GRADING
1. Because this course only meets once a week, attendance is especially important. This course will move from topic to topic quickly, without much time for review. If you must miss a class, please let me know so that we can make arrangements. Multiple absences will negatively affect your final grade.
2. Please come to class on time and prepared for discussion and work.
3. Projects are due on the date and time assigned. Late projects will be penalized.
4. Be respectful of the studio space and equipment collection! You are responsible for the replacement cost of lost or damaged items. Studio policies are available at fmsequipment.blogs.bucknell.edu.
5. All work must be individual and original. Any evidence of unauthorized collusion (working with another student without permission) or plagiarism (use of another’s ideas without acknowledgement) will lead to the procedures set up by the university for academic dishonesty.
6. Any projects created for this class may be used for promotional purposes; for example, they may be posted to the Film/Media Studies YouTube channel, screened at an event, or used in a montage of student work. If do not want your work used in this way, please let me know.
Weekly projects: 50%
Final project: 30%
Attendance and participation: 20%
CONTACT INFORMATION
Daniel Nienhuis
dan014@bucknell.edu
Marts office: 570-577-7245
Personal phone: 248-207-4918