Course Title: Undertake live audio operations
Part B: Course Detail
Teaching Period: Term1 2017
Course Code: VART6410C
Course Title: Undertake live audio operations
School: 345T Media and Communication
Campus: City Campus
Program: C4372 - Certificate IV in Music Industry (Sound Production)
Course Contact: Program Administration
Course Contact Phone: 03 9925 4976
Course Contact Email: mcvet@rmit.edu.au
Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff
Nominal Hours: 100
Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
None
Course Description
Students will learn the skills and knowledge to operate a audio mixing equipment, including, major outboard sound processing equipment, software and develop basic skills to monitor sound quality and develop creative and technical judgements.
National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria
National Element Code & Title: |
CUASOU301 Undertake live audio operations |
Element: |
1. Participate in technical or creative run-throughs |
Performance Criteria: |
1.1 Determine audio requirements in consultation with relevant personnel and with reference to production documentation 1.2 Ensure that equipment is positioned and ready for operation according to production requirements 1.3 Plot and run through cues on direction from relevant personnel and according to equipment, sequencing, timing and speed requirements 1.4 Implement appropriate changes to audio operations and document them according to organisational procedures 1.5 Communicate appropriate technical information to performers and presenters |
Element: |
2. Prepare for audio operations |
Performance Criteria: |
2.1 Power up equipment at the appropriate time and check that it is working correctly 2.2 Complete audio check and implement and document adjustments according to organisational procedures 2.3 Promptly identify, rectify or refer equipment problems to relevant personnel as required |
Element: |
3. Operate professional audio equipment |
Performance Criteria: |
3.1 Execute all audio cues according to running sheets or directions from colleagues 3.2 Promptly identify changes required during performances and modify cues as required to cater for unexpected events and minimise negative impact on performances 3.3 Operate console to produce the required technical level and tonal balances 3.4 Adjust equalisation for required tonal balance 3.5 Balance signal levels 3.6 Maintain overall audio level in line with the requirements of the environment 3.7 Play back audio effects at the required level through the appropriate speakers 3.8 Monitor equipment for correct operation throughout performances and resolve problems as required |
Element: |
4. Complete post-performance procedures |
Performance Criteria: |
4.1 Safely power down equipment at the appropriate time according to manufacturer instructions and organisational procedures 4.2 Identify and complete necessary equipment adjustments, including maintenance and re-setting as required in preparation for next performance 4.3 Update documentation as required and process according to organisational procedures 4.4 Evaluate effectiveness of audio operations with relevant personnel and note areas for future improvement |
Learning Outcomes
You learn the theoretical and practical operation of audio production equipment in order to prepare you for a range of audio production workplace scenarios. Theory will arm you with the knowledge required to fully utilise audio equipment effectively, and practical demonstration and application of a range of live and recording based sound production equipment will allow you to develop your own understanding, knowledge and skills.
Details of Learning Activities
Explore primary studio production equipment and the techniques for effective use Theory of operation and practical application of audio production equipment Use of and application of hardware and software FX processors Insights into operational functions and user tips and tricks of console and studio processors Foundations skills of essential studio navigation and session equipment. |
Teaching Schedule
WEEK |
CLASS PLAN |
ELEMENTS |
Week 1 |
Intro, overview, toolkit, resources |
1 |
Week 2 |
Mixer design |
1,2 |
Week 3 |
TOFT mixer |
1,2 |
Week 4 |
TOFT mixer |
1,2 |
Week 5 |
Signal Flow |
3 |
Week 6 |
Signal Flow |
3 |
Week 7 |
Patchbays |
3 |
Week 8 |
Analog Tape/machines |
3 |
Week 9 |
EQ |
3 |
Week 10 |
EQ |
3 |
Week 11 |
Dynamic Processing |
3 |
Week 12 |
Dynamic Processing |
3 |
Week 13 |
FX |
3 |
Week 14 |
FX |
3 |
Week 15 |
Assessment |
1,2,3,4 |
SEMESTER 2 |
Practical assessment additionally conduction within studio sessions in Semester 2 – Studio 1/3 |
|
Learning Resources
Prescribed Texts
References
Other Resources
Program Blackboard (Learning Hub) links
Blackboard content
Various internet resources as supplied via email & in class
Various texts are available from RMIT library to support a this study
Students are reminded they need to PRACTICE to advance skill sets (using Pro Tools at home is the most common and best approach to this)
Recommended Reading includes but not limited to the following
AUDIO TECHNOLOGY MAGAZINE http://www.audiotechnology.com.au/
MODERN RECORDING TECHNIQUES 8th Edition http://routledgetextbooks.com/textbooks/_author/huber-9780240821573/
Overview of Assessment
Assessment tasks include in-studio practical session and written assessment.
Assessment Tasks
To demonstrate competency in this course you will need to complete the following assessment to a satisfactory standard.
Assessment is divided across the following tasks
- Radio Ad– this is small group practical completion of a broadcast ready 30sec advertisement for radio with no creative brief but a set of technical requirements to meet. DUE CLASS 15 (ungraded/completion)
- Signal Flow– completed in class, this is an individual demonstration of ability to recall in writing the signal flow for an analog mixing console as reviewed in previous classes. DUE CLASS 7 (ungraded/completion)
- Studio Practical Session (Sem 1)– this is a small group practical recording session featuring acoustic instruments offering the student an initial opportunity to explore the procedures and skills required for basic Sound Engineering. Evidence of attendance, safe operational ability, communication with performer and team participation will be observed by attending staff supervisor. DUE CLASS 15 (ungraded/completion)
- Studio Practical Session (Sem 2)– this is a small group practical recording session featuring a full band, including drum kit and vocals. Evidence of attendance, safe, operational ability, and communication with performer and team participation will be observed by attending staff supervisor. DUE SEM 2 (ungraded/completion)
- Written Assessment– Each student will complete a written exam covering all critical theoretical material covered within the previous classes DUE CLASS 16 (graded)
For further information on the grading system and criteria used, please refer to the course blackboard site.
Grades which apply to courses delivered in accordance with competency-based assessment, but which also use graded assessment:
CHD - Competent with High Distinction
CDI - Competent with Distinction
CC - Competent with Credit
CAG - Competency Achieved - Graded
NYC - Not Yet Competent
DNS - Did Not Submit for Assessment
Assessment Matrix
The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. The assessment matrix for this course can be found on Blackboard or from your teacher.
Other Information
Please refer to the RMIT student page for extensive information about study support, assessment, extensions, appeals and a range of other matters: http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students
Cover Sheet for Submissions:
You must complete and sign a submission cover sheet for every piece of submitted work, including online submissions.
http://mams.rmit.edu.au/s1llva641yxuz.pdf
Attendance:
Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises
It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.
Assessment Feedback:
You will receive spoken and written feedback on all your work. Where relevant, this feedback will also include suggestions on how you can proceed to the next stage of developing your projects.
http://www1.rmit.edu.au/policies/assessment-policy
Student Progress:
Monitoring academic progress is an important enabling and proactive strategy designed to assist you in achieving your learning potential.
http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/acadprogress
Adjustments to Assessment (eg. applying for an extension of time):
If you are unable to complete any piece of assessment satisfactorily by the due date, you can choose to apply for an adjustment to your assessment. RMIT University offers a range of adjustments designed to support you in your studies, including an extension of time to complete the assessment.
http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/assessment/adjustment
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:
RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.
http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/academic-integrity
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:
Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.
Recognition of Current Competency (RCC) RCC applies only if you have previously successfully demonstrated competence in a unit of competency, and now require to be reassessed to ensure that the competence is being maintained.
Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer, RPL, or RCC for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.
http://www1.rmit.edu.au/students/enrolment/credit
Course Overview: Access Course Overview