Topics in Sound Production (401-0-21)

Topic

Documentary Radio

Instructors

William R. Healy

Meeting Info

Frances Searle 1111 SoundTank: Mon 10:00AM - 12:50PM

Overview of class

This course is about using sound to tell true stories. Students will create short audio documentaries using a combination of interviews, scenes, and archival gathered over the course of ten weeks. The workshop will begin with exercises intended to teach the fundamentals of public radio reporting. Students don't need to identify as journalists, but must be willing to learn reporting skills, including talking to strangers. This is a production-heavy class, so students should expect to spend significant time in the field. There will also be listening assignments before every class, as well as guest speakers. Instruction on editing software will be minimal. The emphasis is on reporting, and structuring stories for listeners.

Learning Objectives

Students will create original audio documentaries

Students will edit audio documentaries, and incorporate feedback from their classmates and instructor

Students will learn interviewing and reporting techniques

Class Materials (Required)

"Out on the Wire" book by Jessica Abel ($15)

a digital audio recorder

over-ear headphones

a computer with audio editing software

Class Notes

It's critical that every student bring ideas for a final project they would like to work on to the first class.