Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - CMNS 226 D100

Digital Media Communication Techniques (3)

Class Number: 6041

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    CMNS 110 and 130, with a minimum grade of C-. CMNS 220 recommended.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

This course introduces students to a variety of digital media communication technologies and techniques, including image and sound capturing and manipulation, Internet-based publishing and research, digitizing, editing and archiving. Design and management tasks involved in communicating using digital media are also introduced, including audio and video editing and processing, data integrity management, file structuring and packaging, and work presentation.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces students to a variety of digital media communication technologies and techniques, including image and sound capturing and manipulation, Internet-based publishing and research, digitizing, editing and archiving. Design and management tasks involved in communicating using digital media are also introduced, including audio and video editing and processing, data integrity management, file structuring and packaging, and work presentation.

This course is designed to be an introduction to the field of Media Analysis and Production. It is the gateway course for upper-level courses offered in the Media Analysis Lab within the School of Communication (e.g., CMNS 326, and CMNS 426). The Media Analysis Lab uses the production of media (e.g., images, soundtracks, and videos) as a component of our experiential learning pedagogy. The course introduces students to a variety of media analysis traditions, technologies, and techniques. Using an iterative and experience-based learning environment, students cycle through the analysis, research, design, and production of audio-visual media, with the intention of developing a greater understanding of the conventions, meanings, and social implications of contemporary media forms. 

The course will be divided into lecture and lab components. In the lectures, students will be expected to analyze and discuss the dominant contemporary genres, production paradigms, and conventions, as well as demonstrate development in their critical understanding of media forms and practices. In the labs, students will be expected to gain technical knowledge and skills required for digital media production including: design, production planning, the use of image and sound recording equipment, uploading and formatting for the Internet, creative writing, lighting, framing, digitizing, editing, graphics, and presenting final productions. Students must also present and discuss their productions in class.

Grading

  • Workshop Activities 20%
  • Video Assignment I – Fictional Narrative Project 20%
  • Video Assignment II – Non-Fiction Narrative Project 20%
  • Writing Assignment I 10%
  • Writing Assignment I 10%
  • Online Discussion Contributions 20%

NOTES:

*Lab and tutorial participation grades will take into account preparation, for example, demonstrating in discussions and Canvas postings that you have done the work assigned and completed reading assignments. 

Marks will be deducted for absences and late work.

 

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Readings will be posted on the course page on Canvas https://canvas.sfu.ca/


Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.