Module: PM7028-30 Sound Design Practice

Level: 7

Credit Value: 30

Module Tutor: Jan Meinema

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.meinema@bathspa.ac.uk

1.Brief description and aims of module

The Sound Design Practice module explores the creative and practical application of Sound Design within a visual narrative and storytelling context, including dramaturgical and stylistic considerations as well as aesthetic aspects. A focus is on the potential of using sound design as a tool for narrative storytelling and the use of sound design as a vehicle to communicate meaning. In this module, you work towards the development of a creative project, informed by the skills and concepts explored by the module. The related written commentary further explores the content of the seminar series.

The module aims to:

• Explore the use of sound design as a narrative tool
• Establish an environment for the practical exploration of sound design concepts
• Foster the integration of conceptual and practical skills

2.Outline syllabus

Weekly seminars focus on the use of sound design within moving image. You explore a selection of sound design practice examples in terms of ideas and technique. Weekly practical workshops and online learning materials support the practical and technical realisation of work informed by theoretical concepts. Sessions introduce and explore a series of conventional tools as well as more specialist tools. These include ideas and tools associated with the field of electroacoustic composition.

The module content includes:

• Sound (Design) Languages of Visual Media - Visual Storytelling - Narrative constructions - Dramaturgy - Script analysis, Director Briefing & Communication, Non-synchronous storytelling through sound and music. Perspectives and Psychology of Sound Design, Abstraction Versus Illusion of Reality.
• Sound (Design) Tools and Techniques: Advanced Sound Sculpting (synthesis & processing) - Electro Acoustic Approaches - Spectral and Spatial Morphology, Dynamic Punctuation, Texture Building - Micro-editing, Stacking, Sound Design for Surround. Sound Sourcing Synthetic and Recorded.

3.Teaching and learning activities

1. Weekly seminar (1.5 hours)

2. Weekly practical workshop (1.5 hours)

3. Additional online study resources made available weekly on Minerva

4. Student-directed study

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Sound Design Practice Project (5,650 words equivalent)
• % Weighting: 75%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work
• Description: Written Commentary (1850 words)
• % Weighting: 25%