CM360 Visual Communication

Fall 2010

Instructor:                    Kurt Paulsen                                    Office CC 144   507-344-7732   kpaulsen@blc.edu

Texts:                    Zettl, Sight, Sound, Motion: Applied Media Aesthetics  (2010 – 1999 edition acceptable)

Materials:            a camera of any kind (still or video) will be useful (along with tape)

Goals of the course:

Through this course you should become better able to…

·      Identify the elements of an effective visual image

·      Understand how those elements can be purposefully managed on a film/video screen to create beauty, affect emotions, persuade, and otherwise impact the viewer through clarifying, intensifying, and interpreting events

·      Create for yourself and those you serve effective video productions bringing to bear in a knowledgeable way the basic elements of screen design

·      Enjoy the productions you experience by appreciating their excellences (and understanding their flaws)

·      Employ the technology of video production

·      Appreciate the ethical responsibilities of the visual communicator

·      Imagine a “visual Word,” bringing the Gospel to today’s eye-oriented generation

·      Connect your personal goals to the mission of Bethany Lutheran College

Here are the Communication program competencies most directly addressed in this class:

1...understands the challenges involving information and communication in the 21st century

3...is knowledgeable regarding operating procedures of the various communication media

4...is aware of the history, economics, and social significance of the various communication media

7...is familiar with technology

8...is thoughtful and critical

9...is ethical

10...can deal with complexities

11...is a problem-solver

12...can collaborate

Course procedures

We will proceed through the textbook at a pace of about a chapter a week, expecting…

·       Everyone has read the chapter (and if possible the related section on CD-ROM)

·      We discuss it in class

·      We observe and practice the chapter's lessons through lab/studio activities, which may involve production in writing and on videotape

·      We will demonstrate mastery of the material though unit tests.

Basis for Grades:

·      Tests  (50%)

·      Studio projects, demonstrations, productions, and reports (50%)

·      Attendance and participation are grading factors