Class Syllabus

FA 333 Introduction to Digital Media 2 – Time - Based.
Course pre-requisites: FA 102 and FA 111
Chris Ireland | Adjunct Professor Fine Arts | IT Coordinator Digital Media
Room 7084 | 3:10 - 4:50


OBJECTIVES
FA 333, Introduction to Digital Media 2, is an introductory course in time-based digital media. It serves as the pre-requisite to the FA 434, Time Based Media, an advanced course in digital video and sound, and FA 435 Interactive Media.

This course will examine the basic principles of time based artwork, through various art mediums which will include video, sound, and installation. Using narration, sequencing, motion, performance, perception and other procedures, we will explore how to use time as an essential element in art making. In addition, a historical overview of time-based media will be presented via visual lectures, film viewing, museum visits and reading material. We will explore concepts of sequence, narration, scoring, pacing, rhythm, repetition, interactivity, motion, montage recursion, and perception through the creation of audio, video, and installation projects. To this end, students will gain a basic understanding of Audacity, Final Cut Express, and Macromedia Flash. We will cover basic camera use and professional production techniques.

While we will be focusing principally on digital media, it must be acknowledged that much production in this realm still require knowledge of primarily "analog" practices such as microphone technique, an awareness of space (in regards to installations) or traditional photography.


FORM OF INSTRUCTION
Class time will involve:
‡ a combination of lectures and discussions on pertinent issues within the context of the medium
‡ application demos and technical instruction
‡ screening of artists, videos, and films that significantly connect to class project themes
‡ work time for projects
‡ critiques of projects.

Outside time, in addition to projects, WILL involve independent research, work time, and reading. Success with digital media does not come from expertise with the applications, but from the knowledge of the many spheres and dimensions this medium inhabits. While skill is obtained through practice with the tool, ideas are nurtured through other sources, so resourcefulness is key! The sophistication of the content of your work is absolutely vital regardless of your intent with this medium.

MATERIALS:
‡ USB or Firewire hard drive (this is a public lab, I cannot take responsibility for files on every computer)
‡ DVD’s for turning in final projects
‡ Headphones, since most assignments deal with sound - these will become necessary to not avoid your neighbors in class.
‡ DV Cassettes for Digital Video cameras
‡ Digital Video Camera: available for check-out should you need
‡ Mp3 digital sound recorder: available for check-out should you need
‡ Software: All computers are equipped with software required for class. If you would like to purchase software or hardware for video/sound editing please talk with me.
‡ Notebooks, pen. There are no required textbooks for the course. This website will be a starting point for reading materials and project information.

GRADING
Each project is worth 20 percent of your grade, equaling 80 percent. The remaining 20 percent will be awarded based on the quality of participation in the class during critiques, discussions, in class assignments, etc. Your overall grade will be based on your understanding of the information and ideas discussed, and your formal, technical, and conceptual progress as demonstrated in projects and exercises, and professionalism during the course.

Attendance is crucial. You are responsible for anything you miss in class.
‡ Missing 3 classes without contacting me will result in one whole grade drop.
‡ In line with WSU Fine Arts department policy, missing 5 classes will result in an automatic grade failure.


LABS AND COURSE WEBSITE:
The computer is only open during class or in the presence of a lab monitor. To sign on the computers you will be using the username/password “fa333”. If you need any technical assistance or need to report a problem with the lab, please feel free to contact me anytime at the contact info listed above.

The course website will be revealed in class in the beginning of the second week, check it often for all class materials and news.


SCHEDULE OF COURSE CONTENT (based off last year, this will change)

Weeks 1 - 4
‡ Audio – recording techniques, Audacity, Soundscape project

Weeks 5 - 7
‡ Video, non-linear editing techniques, camera techniques, Final Cut, Descriptive Video project

Weeks 8 - 11
‡ Animation, Macromedia Flash, Virtual Space Project

Weeks 12 - 15
‡Installation: Planning, Execution, Documentation. Emphasis on viewer relationships, basic interactivity, film theory, performance.

STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES I am committed to providing assistance to help you be successful in this course. Reasonable accommodations are available for students with a documented disability. Please visit the Disability Resource Center (DRC) during the first two weeks of every semester to seek information or to qualify for accommodations. All accommodations MUST be approved through the DRC (Admin Annex Bldg, Rooms 205). Call 509 335 3417 to make an appointment with a disability counselor.

ACADEMIC HONESTY WSU is committed to principles of truth and academic honesty. Academic dishonesty includes cheating, plagiarism, and fabrication in the process of academic work, and can result in suspension or dismissal from the university. In this class, academic dishonesty will result in failure of the course and will be reported to the Office of Student Conduct. See HYPERLINK "http://www.studentaffairs.wsu.edu/conductOffice/academicIntegrity.asp" http://www.studentaffairs.wsu.edu/conductOffice/academicIntegrity.asp for more information.