module specification

The module will provide a practical introduction to the creative and challenging area of documentary filmmaking.

You will develop professional practices by working in small groups to produce a short documentary.

There will be an emphasis on how to film and work with documentary subjects (or characters) in a sensitive and ethical way.

You will learn about a range of documentary techniques via screenings, discussion, and practice.

You will learn about what makes a good documentary idea and will be required to research, pitch, and develop a proposal following industry guidelines and legal frameworks.

The module aims to:

• Provide students with an overview of approaches to documentary filmmaking.

• Give students practical experience of a range of documentary techniques such as sit-down interviews, vox pops and observational filming.

• Develop students’ understanding of how to research, develop and present a concept for a documentary for film or TV.

• Enable students to shoot, structure and edit a short documentary using appropriate audio and camera equipment and editing software.

The module will allow students to develop professional practice skills by working towards the production of a 4- 6-minute documentary. (LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4, UL0)

Key to the module is the selection of interesting and relevant themes to explore though filmmaking. (LO1, LO3, UL0)

The module will address planning, research, pitching, filming, editing and presentation of a short documentary. (LO1, LO2, LO4, UL0)

Students will gain experience in specific production roles within their teams through exercises and on their final films. (LO1, LO2, LO3, UL0)

The module will address aesthetic principles such as how to frame and present an interview.
(LO2, LO3, UL0)

Legal and ethical issues will be addressed via case studies and in the project pitch and production. (LO1, LO2, LO3, LO4, UL0)

Teaching and learning will be carried out through lectures, screenings, and practical workshops. Lectures will include critical analysis through discussion of a range of documentary techniques. Screenings, include short films and clips from notable filmmakers and masterclasses with industry professionals.

Effective documentary filmmaking requires the proficient practitioner to be both self-reflective and constructively critical. The documentary maker needs to be able to apply this understanding to their own work and the work of others.  The development of these skills is embedded into the module.

During workshops students will be introduced to specific principles and techniques which will be demonstrated by the lecturer or technical demonstrator and then practiced in small groups. Students will use a range of camera and audio recording equipment, which can be accessed outside of sessions from the Media Helpdesk for practice and use in the final production. Small groups will meet to develop and film their documentary outside of class time.

WeLearn materials include a range of readings, websites, and video-based learning materials such as full-length film and TV documentaries through Box of Broadcasts which students are encouraged to engage with throughout the module.

Students are encouraged to read selected texts prior to attending class, and during the development and evaluation of the documentary film production.

On successful completion of this module, the student will be able to:

LO1: Research and develop a documentary idea, structure and edit a documentary.

LO2: Set up and film different styles of interviews, convey a narrative using documentary techniques.

LO3: Demonstrate understanding of industrial practices such as pitching and working within a legal framework and in a team, demonstrating management and planning skills transferable to careers in the audio-visual and creative industries.

LO4: Demonstrate a basic level of analytical, reflective, and critical skills e.g. being able to write an evaluation of their work.

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