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Introduction to Designing Audio Experiences: Art and Science (ANTH0181)

Key information

Faculty
Faculty of Social and Historical Sciences
Teaching department
Anthropology
Credit value
60
Restrictions
PGT (Level 7). This module is open to students on MA Designing Audio Experiences only.
Timetable

Alternative credit options

There are no alternative credit options available for this module.

Description

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This module will run over the first two terms and is designed to give you a thorough grounding in designing spatial audio experiences and storytelling. The module will involve learning about the physics, anthropology and psychology of sound along with pre-production and research, the creation of a written proposal and in-person pitch, plus introductory exercises leading to the production of two assessed practical training exercises, increasing in length and complexity.  Each exercise isolates and focuses on the techniques and content of a specific aspect of designing audio experiences and includes discussion of the social and ethical contexts in which we work.ÌýÌýÌý

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Module content

The module includes: Ìý

- class-based learning and exercises in the history of sound composition, immersive media, storytelling in sound, physics of sound, anthropology of sound, psychoacoustics, sound perception, soundscape design.  Ìý

- critical analysis of the current body of audio design work Ìý

- exercises to develop awareness of sound and how it can be used to tell and enhance stories Ìý

- exploration of styles of immersive audio to find those that best fit the stories they seek to tell about the social world around themÌý

- discussion of the ethical implications and challenges of creating deeply immersive experiences including issues around voice, authority to represent, dealing with sensitive issues, respect for contributors and other complex issues arising from telling ‘other people’s stories’Ìý

- practical immersive audio training in Audio DAW (digital audio workflows), audio processing and manipulation, Spatial Audio: concepts and workflows, techniques for static and head-tracked spatial audio in headphones, processing, mixing and mastering, advanced sound design, leading to producing and delivering a full installation on a multi-speaker immersive array. Ìý

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Learning OutcomeÌý

On successful completion of the module you will be able to:Ìý

  1. Design and produce audio experiences to professional level, manage time and production flows in complex projects, communicating effectively and succinctly in a professional contextÌý

  1. Exhibit sophisticated audio storytelling ability and demonstrate an understanding of acoustics, psychoacoustics, sound perception, soundscape design and recording equipment.ÌýÌýÌý

  1. Effectively communicate a vision to members of a team, to tutors, mentors and industry professionals;Ìý

  1. Have a thorough understanding of the ethical considerations required when developing factual audio experiences and those of immersive production in particular.ÌýÌýÌý

  1. Write a clearly argued and persuasive critical evaluation referencing related works and pieces of inspiration, reflecting their developing knowledge of the field, analysing the strengths and weaknesses of their production workflow and the work itself.ÌýÌýÌý

  1. Manage to a satisfactory level a range of relevant audio software programmes and their integration within a given projectÌý

Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year

Intended teaching term: Terms 1 and 2 ÌýÌýÌý Postgraduate (FHEQ Level 7)

Teaching and assessment

Mode of study
In person
Intended teaching location
¹û¶³Ó°Ôº East
Methods of assessment
70% Performances and exhibitions
30% Coursework
Mark scheme
Numeric Marks

Other information

Number of students on module in previous year
9
Module leader
Dr Angela Mcarthur
Who to contact for more information
a.mcarthur@ucl.ac.uk

Last updated

This module description was last updated on 8th April 2024.

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