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Topics in Media Writing (360-0-21)

Topic

Writing the Audio Series

Instructors

Scott Richard Adkins

Meeting Info

Annie May Swift Hall 109: Thurs 12:00PM - 2:50PM

Overview of class

In this course each student will write and produce audio dramas/scripted podcasts. We will listen to contemporary audio dramas to better understand what makes them successful. How do we activate the imagination with language and sound? What types of stories work in the medium? How far can we push our storytelling style in the medium? Experimental storytelling is encouraged with creative use of language and sound. Students will complete weekly writing assignments as well as use audio editing software to render their stories. The final project for this class will be a fully produced version of the first episode of each student's series (10-20 minutes).

Learning Objectives


  1. Analyze successful contemporary audio dramas/scripted podcasts.

  2. Render projects using basic recording methods and audio editing skills.

  3. Write an audio drama/scripted podcast for the medium.

  4. Provide classmates positive non-prescriptive feedback of their new work.

  5. Assimilate feedback and notes into new drafts of the final project.

  6. For the final project, complete a fully produced version of the first episode of an original audio drama/scripted podcast (10-20 minutes).

Teaching Method


  1. Discussions on weekly listening/reading assignments.

  2. In-class guided writing exercises to develop character, story, and world. The results of these exercises are to be developed further outside of class and/or produced for weekly in-class sharing.

  3. Recording/editing assignments to explore the function of sound in story and to practice audio editing methods.

  4. Students will research various scripted podcast genres (sci-fi, horror, drama, comedy, mystery) and present in small groups to the class on a contemporary scripted podcast of their choice.

  5. Workshop and critique of final projects prior to final production.

Class Materials (Required)


  1. Access to Adobe Audition (via Louis Hall lab) or equivalent audio editing program (Pro Tools, Ableton, etc)

  2. Access to a recording device (via Louis Hall check-out)

  3. Laptop with word-processing software

  4. A journal (with at least 50 pages ruled/unruled) - preferably you will journal and free-write by hand however using a computer is totally fine.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Students must have completed RTVF 260-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed) Students must have completed RTVF 260-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed)