Aims and Fit of Module

This optional module runs across two semesters and is aimed at students who want to take up sound practices in production and post production seriously.  It builds on the work that they have done at Level 4 in their Introduction to Sound module.  The module provides an opportunity to the serious sound recordist and sound designer to explore their craft by understanding the demands made on them as they record sound on location and create sund scapes in post production on short sequences and a short fim.


Specifically, the module is designed to:

Give student sound recordists/sound engineers a greater understanding of the theories and principles of sound both on location and in post production 

Enable student sound recordists/engineers to experience and use a range of industry standard equipment 

Engage student sound recordists/engineers in discovering the relationship between storytelling and the creation of atomospheric soundscapes

Help student sound recordists/engineers prepare for shoots, conduct themselves professionally on set and create soundscape in post production in order to achieve their creative vision

Enable student sound recordists/engineers to use sound to convey meaning effectively

Further enable student sound recordists/engineers to demonstrate the ability to critically reflect on their decision making and place it within a historical context


Gain an understanding of sound recrodists’ and sound engineers’ contracts, fees, negotiations etc. so that they can conduct themselves at a professional level. 

Learning outcomes

A	Discuss, analyse and critique the construction of soundtracks, understanding the practice of recording sound on location and working with sound design in post production in the creation of meaning 

B	Successfully collaborate and communicate with directors, cinematographers and editors in developing a soundscape for screen

C	Effectively translate a script into sound design intentions by using a number of location sound recording techniques and creating soundscapes in post to enable the creation of meaning and atmosphere through sound 

D	Effectively utilise a variety of post-production sound equipment and software in order to create meaning

Method of teaching and learning

The teaching sessions are divided into two components (seminars and practical workshops in studio and in edit suites).  Each semester will involve a total of 150 hours of study, thus making this module worth 300 hours of study. 


The seminars will provide the opportunity to examine sound tracks in films and TV in order to learn how to put them into practice.


The practical workshops will focus on both location sound and sound in post production.