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MODULE DESCRIPTOR
Module Title
Audio Production
Reference CB2001 Version 1
Created September 2022 SCQF Level SCQF 8
Approved April 2023 SCQF Points 30
Amended ECTS Points 15

Aims of Module
This module builds upon existing audio production skills through developing an advanced understanding of audio and production theory which informs the practice of industry standard production techniques.

Learning Outcomes for Module
On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:
1 Identify the physical characteristics of sound waves and digital audio recordings.
2 Demonstrate understanding of audio properties within a professional recording context.
3 Analyse project requirements to select appropriate content, equipment, and techniques.
4 Conceive and plan an original audio production project.
5 Apply appropriate skills and workflows to record, mix and produce an audio artifact.
6 Reflect on challenges and successes by evaluating the completed project.

Indicative Module Content
Students will expand their understanding of the physical properties of sound and digital audio technologies, alongside developing improved audio production recording and mixing techniques. Students will learn about common post-production methods, including practices such as noise reduction, audio sweetening, compression and normalization, equalization, creative filters and mastering processes, in addition to examining current production fields such as ADR, vocal recording, “Foley” and effect creation. Students will be encouraged to develop a brief and select and incorporate stock material alongside original recordings. Advanced sound production techniques will be used throughout mixing and mastering to produce a professional artefact, such as a podcast. Topics include: physical properties of sound, digital audio technologies, recording and mixing techniques for dialogue, sound, and music, compiling and mastering a professional-level artefact.

Module Delivery
This module combines contextualising lectures with a series of practical workshops. The workshops will further develop practical understandings and empower participants to deliver professional audio recording utilizing a range of facilities and equipment.

Indicative Student Workload Full Time Part Time
Contact Hours 72 N/A
Non-Contact Hours 228 N/A
Placement/Work-Based Learning Experience [Notional] Hours N/A N/A
TOTAL 300 N/A
Actual Placement hours for professional, statutory or regulatory body    

ASSESSMENT PLAN
If a major/minor model is used and box is ticked, % weightings below are indicative only.
Component 1
Type: Coursework Weighting: 100% Outcomes Assessed: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
Description: Portfolio assessment comprising audio output and reflective analysis of practice.

MODULE PERFORMANCE DESCRIPTOR
Explanatory Text
The calculation of the overall grade for this module is based on 100% weighting of C1. An overall minimum grade D is required to pass the module.
Module Grade Minimum Requirements to achieve Module Grade:
A The student needs to achieve an A in C1.
B The student needs to achieve a B in C1.
C The student needs to achieve a C in C1.
D The student needs to achieve a D in C1.
E The student needs to achieve an E in C1.
F The student needs to achieve an F in C1.
NS Non-submission of work by published deadline or non-attendance for examination

Module Requirements
Prerequisites for Module None.
Corequisites for module None.
Precluded Modules None.

INDICATIVE BIBLIOGRAPHY
1 AHEARN, S., 2022. Making Radio and Podcasts: A practical guide to working in today's radio and audio industries. 4th ed. Oxford: Focal Press
2 BARTLETT, B. and BARTLETT, J., 2016. Practical Recording Techniques. 7th Ed. London: Routledge
3 CORBETT, I., 2020. Mic It! Microphones, Microphone Techniques, and Their Impact on the Final Mix. 2nd ed. London: Routledge
4 KATZ, B., 2015. Mastering Audio: The Art and the Science. 3rd Ed. London: Routledge
5 NUZUM, E., 2020. Make Noise: A Creator's Guide to Podcasting and Great Audio Storytelling. New York: Workman
6 WYATT, H. and AMYES, T., 2013. Audio Postproduction for Television and Film: an introduction to technology and techniques. London: Routledge

Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Aberdeen, AB10 7QB, Scotland, UK: a Scottish charity, registration No. SC013781