Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2024 - IAT 313 D100

Narrative and New Media (3)

Class Number: 3575

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 8 – Apr 12, 2024: Mon, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Surrey

  • Prerequisites:

    Completion of 48 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Explores the role of narrative in various media and New Media environments, from traditional linear environments and multi-linear and networked media environments. Examines the relationship of narrative elements in the light of the practice and the aesthetics of New Media. It will include an overview of New Media theorists.

COURSE DETAILS:

iat313 Narrative and New Media explores the role of narrative in various media and New Media environments: both traditional linear environments and multi-linear and networked media environments. Examines the relationship of narrative elements in the light of the practice and the aesthetics of New Media. It will include an overview of various New Media theorists.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Learning Activities:
 The class will include lectures, screenings, class discussions, course readings, Canvas material/discussion board, writing assignments and media project assignments. The first half of the course focuses on learning the art and structure of good storytelling, the second half applies this to a team project.  Please be aware that the Lecture is very hands-on and there will be team activities in class most weeks. Attendance is required to be successful and work in a team in this course. 

Course Objectives: In this course students will:

  • Demonstrate a solid understanding of the principles of linear and multi-linear narrative
  • Demonstrate a solid understanding of the fundamental aesthetics of new media environments
  • Analyze the construction of traditional linear narratives (film, animation, comics, short story, graphic novels, poetry, songs, etc.)
  • Analyze multi-linear multi-media narrative aesthetics and construction (video-games, hypertext, websites, interactive video, interactive installation)
  • Plan and produce interactive narrative projects.
  • Shape your ideas into compelling and well-structured narratives and complex story worlds

Grading

  • P1: Script (Indiv) 20%
  • P2: Interactive Story: Audience and tech (Indiv) 20%
  • P3: Multiplatform storytelling (team) 40%
  • Quizzes (2) 15%
  • Exercises 5%

NOTES:


*Note, this is a draft assessment; an updated syllabus with assignment weighting and assessments will be proved on the first day of class. 


Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Texts, Resources & Materials:
You may be asked to sign up for external websites.

Snyder, B. (2005). Save the cat! : the last book on screenwriting you'll ever need / Blake Snyder. Michael Wiese Productions.

Truby, J. (2008). The anatomy of story : 22 steps to becoming a master storyteller / John Truby. (1st pbk. ed.). Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

*Note, both of these texts will be on reserve in the SFU Surrey Library (4 hr loan).  You can decide if you would prefer to own your own copy or photocopy readings at the Library. 

REQUIRED READING:

Snyder, B. (2005). Save the cat! : the last book on screenwriting you'll ever need / Blake Snyder. Michael Wiese Productions.

Truby, J. (2008). The anatomy of story : 22 steps to becoming a master storyteller / John Truby. (1st pbk. ed.). Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

RECOMMENDED READING:

The Cambridge Introduction to Narrative, 3rd Edition by H. Porter Abbott, 2020. Cambridge University Press.   ISBN: 978-1108823357

Digital Storytelling, 4th Edition by Carolyn Hler Miller, 2019. Focal Press.

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