Syllabus

Documentary Production

Code
BQ1076
Points
15 Credits
Level
First Cycle Level 1
School
School of Culture and Society
Subject field
Moving Image Production (BPO)
Group of Subjects
Media Production
Disciplinary Domain
Media, 100%
This course can be included in the following main field(s) of study
Moving Image Production1
Progression indicator within (each) main field of study
1G1F
Approved
Approved, 18 September 2013.
This syllabus is valid from 18 September 2013.
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Learning Outcomes

Upon completing the course, the student will be able to:
  • understand how to plan and work practically as a film/video photographer or editor in documentary production taking into consideration production conditions.
  • relate technical tools for sound and moving images to discussions of the aesthetics of documentary film and editing.
  • understand various approaches to motifs in documentary film production.
  • analyze documentary film material and select parts which contribute technically and artistically to the fulfillment of the film’s vision.
  • apply his/her knowledge in a smaller project to the conditions and values of the production, as well as the aesthetics and techniques of documentary filming and editing.
  • have developed an awareness, knowledge and skills concerning different documentary forms of narrative and modes of production.
  • analyse, reflect on and synthesize documentary films from theoretical perspectives
  • have developed an ability for independent analysis, reflection and synthesis using theoretical perspectives on documentary film as a starting point.

Course Content

The course deals with fundamental knowledge of ethnographic observation, documentary narrative, documentary production and the history of documentary film, as well as its relation to societal developments. The course also deals with the special conditions which photographers work under in filming various kinds of documentaries, as well as the conditions of editors in the editing process. Particular emphasis is placed on consciously assuming an attitude toward what is to be filmed, as well as how to work with a large body of material. The student will practice skills in filming documentary material for a practical project.

Assessment

Assessment is based on written assignments (4 cr), an ethnographic exercise and mandatory seminars (4 cr), as well as a documentary film project (7 cr).

Forms of Study

Lectures, seminars, assignments and a project.

Grades

The Swedish grades U–VG.

To receive the grade of VG for the entire course, VG is required on at least two of the modules.

Reporting of grades:
Module 1: Written assignments - 4 cr
Module 2: Ethnographic exercise and seminars - 4 cr
Module 3: Documentary film project - 7 cr

Prerequisites

  • 30 cr in Moving Image Production, including the course The Basics of Film Production, 15 cr First cycle level 1, or equivalent knowledge.

Other Information

Replaces BQ1006.