Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2024 - CA 170 D200

Introduction to Production Technology (3)

Class Number: 8007

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 8 – Apr 12, 2024: Tue, 2:30–4:20 p.m.
    GOLDCORP

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An introduction to the processes, tools and technology used in the production and presentation of the contemporary arts. Course requirements will include hands-on assignments in the production of theatre, dance, and music events. Students will work directly with equipment and materials, and are expected to be involved in work on productions and exhibitions outside of lecture and lab hours. Laboratory fee required. May be of particular interest to students in other areas and departments. Students with credit for FPA 170 may not take this course for further credit.

COURSE DETAILS:

CA170 Introduction to Production Technology introduces students to various technologies used in live performance design. We will focus on four subjects within the field of production technology: lighting, sound, space & materials, and fabric & textiles. Each subject will be covered over three weeks and will include sections on context, technique, and applied learning. This is a “hands-on” class, which means we will physically be doing the things we learn about each week. For example, when we learn about lighting each student will hang a lighting fixture, when we learn about textiles each student will sew something. As part of class time students participate in group discussion of required reading material. Each module will conclude with an online knowledge test, and an in-person practical test. Part of our applied learning will include student participation on production calls for SCA performances and installations. Students will sign up for a minimum of 7 hours and a maximum of 14 hours per each. Production call sign up calendar will be provided in class on the first day. All calls will take place at the school. Production calls may take place anytime outside of class but generally are scheduled on specific Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays between 9:30 - 13:00 and 14:00 - 17:30. All calls are supervised by course instructor or an approved designate.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Define and describe the equipment, tools, and methods of production technology covered in the course. 
  • Analyze some of the historical, environmental, and ideological contexts for various performance technologies. 
  • Identify and utilize the equipment, tools, and methods learned in class. 
  • Recognize and explain relevant safety protocols for the equipment and tools learned in class. 
  • Demonstrate the safe and successful practical application of skills and methods. 
  • Problem-solve technical issues in lighting, sound, space & materials, and fabric & textiles.

Grading

NOTES:

There are 20 assignments in the course (4 learning reflection logs, 4 reading reflection logs, 4 module knowledge tests, 4 module practical tests, and 4 production calls). All of these assignments are pass/fail. Twelve of the assignments are mandatory (4 learning reflections, 2 reading reflections, 2 module knowledge tests, 2 module practical tests, and 2 production calls). Students who complete all the mandatory assignments will receive a passing grade. In addition to the mandatory assignments, students who wish to receive more than a passing grade will complete additional assignments. Students who do not meet the minimum requirements, regardless of additional assignments, will not pass the course.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

All required materials will be provided in class.
Students are encouraged to bring the following to class: penciles, pens, eraser, pencil sharpener, ruler, compass, protrator, small scissors, and something to take notes with.

REQUIRED READING:

Required reading will be provided on 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