Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2023 - CA 149 OL01

Sound (3)

Class Number: 7657

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Online

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Apr 14, 2023
    Fri, 11:59–11:59 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Introduction to acoustics, psychoacoustics, sound synthesis, audio sampling and signal processing, and sound production in general as relating to music, film sound, radio, new media, art installations and live performance. Students who have taken CA (or FPA) 184 cannot take CA (or FPA) 149 for further credit. Students with credit for FPA 149 may not take this course for further credit. Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

CA 149 is an introduction to sound and all the forms it can take. It does not require any previous music theory and is designed to be relevant to all anyone interested in deepening their relationship to sound. Students will be introduced to basic acoustics, the techniques & technology associated with recording, transforming, storing, and transmitting sound as well as a philosophical exploration of sound. This exploration of the technologies and concepts related to sound will lead to examinations of the movie soundtracks, radio, theatre, installations, sound art, gaming and radio art. Special attention will be paid to the role of sound design/music in fixed media, broadcast, performance (theatre, dance, etc.), and installation art. This course will also explore the larger issues of sound in contemporary society through environmental sound, noise, and acoustic communication.

Grading

  • Packback: Weekly Sound Diary 20%
  • Exercise #1: Basic Editing 5%
  • Exercise #2: Signal Processing 5%
  • Midterm 10%
  • Project #1: Film Log 20%
  • Project #2: Creative Composition 30%
  • Final 10%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students must purchase access to the Packback platform via a registration email that will be sent to you. Cost is ~$29.

Student are encouraged to have their own set of headphones (preferably) or earphones. You must have access to a computer running Mac, Windows or Linux – not just a tablet or phone – to complete the assignments. We will use the open source software Audacity for audio editing.

REQUIRED READING:

Readings will be available via Canvas

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website 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