Digital Media Production

This course is based on the theoretical and practical exploration of design and production techniques using primarily audio and video as a medium of communication. Students will learn the basics of video production, audio mixing and editing. Our multi-station Mac Lab and production studio, along with our recording studio, offer professional -level software (Final Cut Pro and the Adobe suite) and hardware (camera, microphones, light kits, etc.) Students will develop the skills necessary to conceive, write, storyboard, shoot and edit several projects over the semester. PREREQUISITE: None

Students will study theories of mass communication and the role that the media and content creators play in modern society. The rise of print, electronic and digital media will be discussed and analyzed. Students will learn that media literacy is vital in today’s environment and will critique forms of mass communication including music, TV/movies, software applications and news. Special attention will be given to the rights, responsibilities, merging trends and practices of mass media. PREREQUISITE: None

Fundamental visual art principles constitute the basis of effective visual communication. This hands-on course explores these fundamentals while applying the creative approaches unique to digital photography. Students will learn how to use advanced digital cameras (DSLR) to create an on-line portfolio, as well techniques to manage and archive media. In addition, students will develop a framework to analyze and evaluate photographs, whether created by themselves or others. PREREQUISITE: None

This course builds on COM1212/Digital Media Production I and teaches the skills required to advance in the media production industry. Students will learn advanced production and editing techniques for studio and remote production. Every student will have the opportunity to engage in the various roles within media production – as a scriptwriter, camera operator, editor, sound mixer, producer, director and more. Combined with a theoretical background in visual storytelling, this class prepares students to work in various industries, including film and television, sports media, local/regional news, and emerging media positions related to streaming video and web-based productions. PREREQUISITE: COM1212

An introduction to the basic principles and techniques of writing for the media. Formats include informational, persuasive and entertainment content for a variety of audiences across different types of media and platforms. Students will write scripted material for traditional media (radio, TV, and print) and produce written content across various digital platforms, including podcasts, streaming audio/video, social media and other web-based industries. PREREQUISITE: None.

In this course, students will learn the craft of audio-based storytelling, utilizing the techniques of audio production and journalistic reporting. Special attention will be given to the podcasting industry and its use of fiction and non-fiction-based narratives. Students will learn how to combine precise writing, compelling interviews, and sound design to create broadcast-quality content. This class will examine individual style/personas, ethical concerns, and innovative models of presenting and distributing audio storytelling in a digital landscape. Students will be required to produce short and long-form projects in which they will learn the steps necessary to conceive, produce and distribute their work. PREREQUISITE: None

This course covers the rights and responsibilities of mass media practitioners, such as reporters, editors, moderators, influencers, etc., as well as the impact of conglomeration on mass media. This course looks at the values of those who work in the news/information business and the moral dilemmas they face in an increasingly complex and litigious society. The course includes lectures, case studies and guest speakers. Topics covered include privacy and an overview of libel law and the impact of conglomeration on the news business in general. PREREQUISITES: ENG1202 or ENG1602

As students move into their third section of Digital Media Production, they will learn what is required to work in a professional production environment. Each student will select a core role in the production team – scriptwriter, producer, director, talent, camera operator, editor, or sound mixer/designer; they will be responsible for working in up to three of these core roles throughout the semester. Students will also be required to work XX practicum hours under the supervision of the division chair. Practicum work will include assisting in productions and mentoring students in Digital Media Production I and II. PREREQUISITE: COM2412

The course covers the technical and creative aspects of transmitting converged media across a wide variety of platforms. This course utilizes student’s skills in digital video photography, editing, and sound, emphasizing the potential of multiple platform presentation including social media, television, cable, streaming, and emerging media. Students will learn the importance of compressing/encoding media, non-linear editing, audio/video production and more. PREREQUISITE: COM1212 or COM1400

This 3-credit experience will offer students the opportunity to manage and maintain digital lab spaces in preparation for their professional internship and beyond. The digital media industry demands exposure to several disciplines within pre-production, production, and post-production; this course will sharpen the students’ skills in each of these roles. Every student will be required to work 20 hours in our audio and video studios, scheduling and managing the spaces and mentoring lower-level students in their productions. Students will develop a keen understanding of professional decorum, how to support and interpret workspace policies and procedures. Students will also meet and work with local/regional professionals (both freelance and those on staff) who can offer career advice and discuss emerging trends in the field. PREREQUISITE: COM3412

In their final section of Digital Media Production, students will write, produce, and edit a long-form project that will be the basis of this capstone course. Each student will create a 30–45-minute production in which they are the executive producer and main creative force. This capstone production will be completed under the supervision of the division chair and will require community outreach. Students will be required to identify a local community organization and work with them to create their production. The student will be required to work with these community “clients” to develop a program that fits with their needs. PREREQUISITE: COM3412

One of the strengths of the communication program is the close relationship the program enjoys with the local, regional, and national media. Communication students are required to take at least three credits of professional learning experience in the media and are encouraged to take as many as 12 credits. Students document their professional learning through a compilation of published stories, podcasts, blog entries and other forms of media. Students have completed internships at 91.9FM/New England Public Media, WWLP TV-22, Western Mass News,102.1FM/WAQY, as well in many local/regional video production studios, public relations firms, and marketing agencies. Summer internships can be arranged so that students continue their professional growth during recess and the program already has a proud record of graduates being placed in media jobs. PREREQUISITES: Permission of the department chair and approval of the dean of the School of Arts, Education and Sciences. PREREQUISITE: None