module specification

SJ6060 - Documentary Filmmaking (2024/25)

Module specification Module approved to run in 2024/25
Module title Documentary Filmmaking
Module level Honours (06)
Credit rating for module 15
School School of Computing and Digital Media
Total study hours 150
 
105 hours Guided independent study
45 hours Scheduled learning & teaching activities
Assessment components
Type Weighting Qualifying mark Description
Group Presentation 30%   Group proposal and pitch
Group Presentation 50%   Group documentary 7-10 minutes
Coursework 20%   Individual 1,000 word critical evaluation
Running in 2024/25

(Please note that module timeslots are subject to change)
Period Campus Day Time Module Leader
Spring semester North Monday Morning

Module summary

Students will develop professional practices working in small groups to produce a short documentary. They will be required to research, pitch and develop a documentary proposal following industry guidelines and legal frameworks. The module will give an overview of the commissioning process and will include input from industry professionals. There will be an emphasis on how to film and work with documentary subjects (or characters) in an ethical way.

Students will learn about a range of documentary modes, genres and techniques via screenings, discussion and practice. Key figures and films will be explored as well as emerging styles and formats.

Prior learning requirements

N/A

Syllabus

The module will allow students to develop advanced media practice skills by working towards the production of a 7- 10-minute documentary. LO6, LO7

The module will address planning, research, pitching, filming, editing and presentation of a short documentary. LO4, LO7

Students will gain experience in specific production roles within their teams through exercises and on their final films. LO5, LO6, LO7

The module will address aesthetic principles such as how to frame and present an interview. LO1. LO4, LO5, LO7

Key to the module is the selection of interesting and relevant themes to explore though filmmaking. LO1, LO2, LO3, LO7

Balance of independent study and scheduled teaching activity

Learning hours comprise face-to-face and virtual contact hours plus self-managed and directed learning and reflecting through group discussion on projects in workshops. Weblearn is used for blended learning. Small groups will meet to develop and film their documentary outside of class time.

Learning and teaching

https://rl.talis.com/3/londonmet/lists/D3CBA261-BECF-4040-4E98-6DC763A7ADB0.html

Websites:
• https://sheffdocfest.com
• https://video.vice.com/en_uk
• https://animateddocs.wordpress.com/

Learning outcomes

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

LO1: Give critical analysis and interpretation of a range of documentaries from different historical
periods
LO2: Challenge notions of objectivity in the representation of human experience
LO3: Plan and carry out investigative research
LO4: Demonstrate understanding of industrial practices such as pitching, proposals and working within a legal framework
LO5: Work in a team, demonstrating management and planning skills transferable to careers in the audio-visual and creative industries
LO6: Design and execute a short documentary project from first idea to finished film
LO7: Demonstrate confidence, resilience, ambition and creativity and will act as inclusive, collaborative and socially responsible practitioners/professionals in their discipline.

Bibliography

WBL level 6 mods updated specs in COD