Students
MMCC8035 – Non-Fiction Screen Media
2020 – Session 2, Special circumstance
Notice
As part of Phase 3 of our return to campus plan, most units will now run tutorials, seminars and other small group learning activities on campus for the second half-year, while keeping an online version available for those students unable to return or those who choose to continue their studies online.
To check the availability of face to face activities for your unit, please go to timetable viewer. To check detailed information on unit assessments visit your unit's iLearn space or consult your unit convenor.
General Information
Download as PDF
| Unit convenor and teaching staff |
Unit convenor and teaching staff
Convenor
Iqbal Barkat
Contact via 0414 636 035
191B 10HA
By Appointment
Technical Officer
Alex Ryan
Contact via 98502172
Technical Officer
Michael Baber
|
|---|---|
| Credit points |
Credit points
10
|
| Prerequisites |
Prerequisites
Admission to MCrInd or MMediaComm
|
| Corequisites |
Corequisites
|
| Co-badged status |
Co-badged status
|
| Unit description |
Unit description
This unit surveys the history and aesthetics of non-fiction forms of screen media and, in particular, the proliferation of documentary through digital technologies. Through critical readings and viewings, the unit will investigate non-fiction film's aesthetic and rhetorical strategies in fashioning the real and its corresponding status as a way of knowing the world. It combines critical analysis with practice-led research offering an opportunity for students to develop a non-fiction screen media work. |
Important Academic Dates
Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:
- ULO1: analyse the contexts and formal strategies of non-fiction screen media.
- ULO2: analyse and implement creative and technical strategies through a critical appraisal of a range of non-fiction screen works and digital production, post-production and distribution methods.
- ULO3: synthesise advanced organisational, technical and conceptual skills through the research, development and collaborative realisation of creative non-fiction screen productions.
- ULO4: implement advanced digital screen media production strategies working in collaboration with peers, social actors, industry professionals and external partners in different learning environments, both on campus and off-site locations.
- ULO5: evaluate your own work and that of others by providing clear, evidence-based and constructive analyses.
General Assessment Information
Assessment tasks are submitted online, through iLearn.
All written work can only be submitted on iLearn as PDFs only. No other format will be accepted. Hard copies will not be accepted.
For film submissions, refer to assessment guidelines in the unit guide and also to announcements on iLearn.
There are no examinations in this unit.
Class Participation Policy
As participation in team activity during class is linked to and underpins the unit Learning Outcomes, you will need to either apply for Special Consideration to cover any missed workshop/practical (if the disruption is greater than three consecutive days) or supply appropriate documentation to your unit convenor for any missed workshop/practical (if less than three consecutive days). Group collaboration is an essential part of the final project. You are expected to present yourself for all group meetings/activities and the in-class presentations at the time and place designated.
Late Submissions / Special Consideration
Unless a Special Consideration request has been submitted and approved, (a) a penalty for lateness will apply – two (2) marks out of 100 will be deducted per day for assignments submitted after the due date – and (b) no assignment will be accepted more than seven (7) days (incl. weekends) after the original submission deadline. No late submissions will be accepted for timed assessments – e.g. quizzes, online tests.
Feedback
Feedback in this unit is available in multiple forms: informal feedback through the ‘announcement’ function in iLearn, if there are points of relevance to the whole class; in email communication with individual students by the convenor in response to questions related to unit activities; in personal consultations by phone or face to face as requested by appointment; as formal feedback during workshops from staff and peers; as general comment and rubric comments attached to assignments.
Examples
Examples of assessments will either be posted iLearn (including sample films) and/or discussed in lectures & workshops.
ASSESSMENT GRADES AND STATUS
Assessment standards in this unit align with the University's grade descriptors, as follows:
Grade HD Range 85-100 Status ‘Standard Grade’ in AMIS: Pass
Provides consistent evidence of deep and critical understanding in relation to the learning outcomes. There is substantial originality, insight or creativity in identifying, generating and communicating competing arguments, perspectives or problem solving approaches; critical evaluation of problems, their solutions and their implications; creativity in application as appropriate to the program.
Grade D Range 75-84 Status ‘Standard Grade’ in AMIS: Pass
Provides evidence of integration and evaluation of critical ideas, principles and theories, distinctive insight and ability in applying relevant skills and concepts in relation to learning outcomes. There is demonstration of frequent originality or creativity in defining and analysing issues or problems and providing solutions; and the use of means of communication appropriate to the program and the audience.
Grade C Range 65-74 Status ‘Standard Grade’ in AMIS: Pass
Provides evidence of learning that goes beyond replication of content knowledge or skills relevant to the learning outcomes. There is demonstration of substantial understanding of fundamental concepts in the field of study and the ability to apply these concepts in a variety of contexts; convincing argumentation with appropriate coherent justification; communication of ideas fluently and clearly in terms of the conventions of the program.
Grade P Range 50-64 Status ‘Standard Grade’ in AMIS: Pass
Provides sufficient evidence of the achievement of learning outcomes. There is demonstration of understanding and application of fundamental concepts of the program; routine argumentation with acceptable justification; communication of information and ideas adequately in terms of the conventions of the program. The learning attainment is considered satisfactory or adequate or competent or capable in relation to the specified outcomes.
Grade F Range 0-49 Status ‘Standard Grade’ in AMIS: Fail
Does not provide evidence of attainment of learning outcomes. There is missing or partial or superficial or faulty understanding and application of the fundamental concepts in the field of study; missing, undeveloped, inappropriate or confusing argumentation; incomplete, confusing or lacking communication of ideas in ways that give little attention to the conventions of the program.
Assessment Tasks
| Name | Weighting | Hurdle | Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| Project Research Proposal | 30% | No | Week 4 |
| Non Fiction Screen Work | 40% | No | Week 13 |
| Video Essay of Creative Strategies | 30% | No | Week 7 |
Project Research Proposal
Assessment Type 1: Design Task
Indicative Time on Task 2: 18 hours
Due: Week 4
Weighting: 30%
Write a research proposal for a short documentary of around 5 to 10 mins. This is both a creative document and an essay. Ensure that your idea from the general topic is achievable and that has the potential for strong sounds and images, interesting characters, story or argument. The research proposal needs to describe the idea and themes that you are hoping to explore, any argument you may wish to make, and the potential for an engaging story. You are to summarise your proposal for an in-class presentation. Refer to iLearn for further information.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- analyse the contexts and formal strategies of non-fiction screen media.
- analyse and implement creative and technical strategies through a critical appraisal of a range of non-fiction screen works and digital production, post-production and distribution methods.
- synthesise advanced organisational, technical and conceptual skills through the research, development and collaborative realisation of creative non-fiction screen productions.
- implement advanced digital screen media production strategies working in collaboration with peers, social actors, industry professionals and external partners in different learning environments, both on campus and off-site locations.
- evaluate your own work and that of others by providing clear, evidence-based and constructive analyses.
Non Fiction Screen Work
Assessment Type 1: Creative work
Indicative Time on Task 2: 58 hours
Due: Week 13
Weighting: 40%
Create a coherent, short non-fiction screen production based on your project proposal of between 5 and 10 minutes in length. You have to complete the production and post-production aspects of this assignment individually or in small groups although you will be marked individually. Along with the film, you need to submit all production documents, a report and a production portfolio. Refer to iLearn for further information.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- analyse the contexts and formal strategies of non-fiction screen media.
- analyse and implement creative and technical strategies through a critical appraisal of a range of non-fiction screen works and digital production, post-production and distribution methods.
- synthesise advanced organisational, technical and conceptual skills through the research, development and collaborative realisation of creative non-fiction screen productions.
- implement advanced digital screen media production strategies working in collaboration with peers, social actors, industry professionals and external partners in different learning environments, both on campus and off-site locations.
- evaluate your own work and that of others by providing clear, evidence-based and constructive analyses.
Video Essay of Creative Strategies
Assessment Type 1: Media presentation
Indicative Time on Task 2: 21 hours
Due: Week 7
Weighting: 30%
Each student will research and present a 5 min video essay analysing screen and other excerpts of their choice . The essay will analyse screen and other media excerpts that are relevant in theme, form, approach, visual or aural style to the screen production you are working on. Refer to iLearn for further information.
On successful completion you will be able to:
- analyse the contexts and formal strategies of non-fiction screen media.
- analyse and implement creative and technical strategies through a critical appraisal of a range of non-fiction screen works and digital production, post-production and distribution methods.
- synthesise advanced organisational, technical and conceptual skills through the research, development and collaborative realisation of creative non-fiction screen productions.
- implement advanced digital screen media production strategies working in collaboration with peers, social actors, industry professionals and external partners in different learning environments, both on campus and off-site locations.
- evaluate your own work and that of others by providing clear, evidence-based and constructive analyses.
1 If you need help with your assignment, please contact:
- the academic teaching staff in your unit for guidance in understanding or completing this type of assessment
- the Writing Centre for academic skills support.
2 Indicative time-on-task is an estimate of the time required for completion of the assessment task and is subject to individual variation
Delivery and Resources
This unit will be delivered through on campus or online classes, seminars, workshops or consultations. Please refer to the timetable for actual schedule.
Students will learn the basics of video and sound acquisition and the non-linear editing system AVID Media Composer which will be required for the successful completion of assignments. Students are also encouraged to contact the department's technical staff for additional workshops in these subjects.
Students will be expected to do two types of independent research:
- academic research into non-fiction screen production forms, styles, histories and theories &
- creative research in preparation for their own productions.
Use of the MQ library's extensive collection of documentaries and books is encouraged, as is independent online research into recent non-fiction forms and productions. Some specific readings and sites will also be assigned.
READING LIST
WHAT IS A DOCUMENTARY
Fox, B. (2010). Documentary media: History, theory, practice. Boston: Allyn & Bacon. A Brief History of Documentary Movements and Modes".
Aufderheide, P. (2007). Documentary film: A very short introduction. Oxford: Oxford University Press. PP 1-44
Raqs Media Collective. (2000). A Frame of Mind: Researching Documentaries
ETHICS PITCHING & WRITING
Nichols, B. (2010). Introduction to documentary. Chapter: Why Are Ethical Issues Central to Documentary Filmmaking?
Bernard, S. C. (2007). Documentary storytelling: Making stronger and more dramatic nonfiction films. Amsterdam: Focal Press. PP 137 -174
Das, Trisha, (2009) 'How to Write a Documentary Script'. Unesco. Page 1 of 52.
NEW FORMS
Rhodes, G. D., & Springer, J. P. (2006). Docufictions: Essays on the intersection of documentary and fictional filmmaking. Jefferson, N.C: McFarland & Co. PP. 2-26
Schenkel, Hanna. A lie that tells the truth: How fictional techniques enhance documentary storytelling Screen Education Issue 74 (Jun 2014)
Bruzzi, S. (2000). New documentary: A critical introduction. London: Routledge. Chapter: Contemporary documentaries: performance and success. PP 221 - 253
DIRECTING THE DOCUMENATAY
Fox, B. (2010). Documentary media: History, theory, practice. Boston: Allyn & Bacon. Chapter: "A Brief History of Documentary Movements and Modes". PP 49-74
Rosenthal, A., & Rosenthal, A. (1996). Writing, directing, and producing documentary films and videos. Carbondale: Southern Illinois University Press.
PP. 33-55
MAKING THE DOCUMENTARY
Barbash, I., & Castaing-Taylor, L. (1997). Cross-cultural filmmaking: A handbook for making documentary and ethnographic films and videos. Berkeley: University of California Press. Chapter 2 From Fieldwork to filming. PP. 35-50
THE FUTURE
Lee-Wright, P. (2010). The documentary handbook. London: Routledge.Part IV Watch The Figures 313 -369
Cholodenko, A. Jean Rouch’s Les maîtres fous: Documentary of Seduction, Seduction of Documentary. In Rothman, W. (2009). Three documentary filmmakers: Errol Morris, Ross McElwee, Jean Rouch. Albany: SUNY Press.
A link to all readings will be provided by the library.
Unit Schedule
Classes will commence in Week 2. Full unit schedule is available on iLearn.
Policies and Procedures
Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central). Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:
- Academic Appeals Policy
- Academic Integrity Policy
- Academic Progression Policy
- Assessment Policy
- Fitness to Practice Procedure
- Grade Appeal Policy
- Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
- Special Consideration Policy (Note: The Special Consideration Policy is effective from 4 December 2017 and replaces the Disruption to Studies Policy.)
Students seeking more policy resources can visit the Student Policy Gateway (https://students.mq.edu.au/support/study/student-policy-gateway). It is your one-stop-shop for the key policies you need to know about throughout your undergraduate student journey.
If you would like to see all the policies relevant to Learning and Teaching visit Policy Central (https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policy-central).
Student Code of Conduct
Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/study/getting-started/student-conduct
Results
Results published on platform other than eStudent, (eg. iLearn, Coursera etc.) or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au or if you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au
Student Support
Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/
Learning Skills
Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to help you improve your marks and take control of your study.
The Library provides online and face to face support to help you find and use relevant information resources.
Student Services and Support
Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.
Student Enquiries
For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au
If you are a Global MBA student contact globalmba.support@mq.edu.au
IT Help
For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/.
When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.