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MAC441Social Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Documentary Film Production

This course introduces students to the principles of documentary film production. It covers the meaning, history, and types of films, with a specific focus on documentary filmmaking. Students will explore production methods, scriptwriting, editing techniques, and the roles of various production personnel. The course emphasizes practical application, requiring students to produce a documentary film as a final project, demonstrating their mastery of the subject.

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208h
Study Time
13
Weeks
16h
Per Week
none
Math Level
Course Keywords
Documentary FilmFilm ProductionScriptwritingFilm EditingFilm Criticism

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
📚
Math Level
No Math
🔬
Learning Type
Hands-on Practice

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Film History

2

Documentary Film

3

Film Production Methods

4

Scriptwriting

5

Film Editing

6

Film Criticism

Total Topics6 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Basic knowledge of mass communication principles

Introduction to film studies

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assessments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Film Director

Apply your skills in this growing field

Documentary Filmmaker

Apply your skills in this growing field

Film Editor

Apply your skills in this growing field

Scriptwriter

Apply your skills in this growing field

Film Critic

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Film ProductionTelevision BroadcastingDocumentary FilmmakingJournalismMedia Production

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1: Take Off Point

3h

Unit 1: Meaning of Film/Motion Picture

3 study hours
  • •Read Unit 1: Meaning of Film/Motion Picture, focusing on definitions and the theory of persistence of vision.
  • •Reflect on the roles of film in society and how they relate to documentary filmmaking.
Week
2

Module 1: Take Off Point

3h

Unit 2: History of Film

3 study hours
  • •Study Unit 2: History of Film, tracing its origins and key figures.
  • •Pay attention to the advent of film in Africa and Nigeria.
Week
3

Module 1: Take Off Point

3h

Unit 3: Principles of Film Form and Film Style

3 study hours
  • •Examine Unit 3: Principles of Film Form and Film Style, understanding the elements of film aesthetics.
  • •Analyze how these principles apply to documentary films.
Week
4

Module 1: Take Off Point

3h

Unit 4: Classifications of Film

3 study hours
  • •Review Unit 4: Classifications of Film, exploring different film genres.
  • •Focus on the characteristics and functions of documentary films within the broader context of film genres.
Week
5

Module 1: Take Off Point

3h

Unit 5: Components of Film

3 study hours
  • •Study Unit 5: Components of Film, identifying the key elements that make up a film.
  • •Consider how these components contribute to the overall message and impact of a documentary.
Week
6

Module 2: Understanding Documentary Film

3h

Unit 1: Defining the Documentary Film

3 study hours
  • •Read Unit 1: Defining the Documentary Film, understanding its unique characteristics.
  • •Differentiate between documentary and feature films.
Week
7

Module 2: Understanding Documentary Film

3h

Unit 2: Types of Documentary Films

3 study hours
  • •Explore Unit 2: Types of Documentary Films, examining different categories and formats.
  • •Identify examples of each type and their specific features.
Week
8

Module 2: Understanding Documentary Film

3h

Unit 3: Purpose of Documentary Films

3 study hours
  • •Study Unit 3: Purpose of Documentary Films, understanding the objectives behind their production.
  • •Analyze the importance of documentaries in informing, persuading, and inspiring audiences.
Week
9

Module 2: Understanding Documentary Film

3h

Unit 4: Developing Ideas for Documentary Films

3 study hours
  • •Review Unit 4: Developing Ideas for Documentary Films, learning how to generate and research documentary topics.
  • •Consider personal experiences, historical events, and societal changes as sources of inspiration.
Week
10

Module 2: Understanding Documentary Film

3h

Unit 5: Developing the Documentary Outline

3 study hours
  • •Examine Unit 5: Developing the Documentary Outline, understanding its structure and functions.
  • •Practice creating outlines for potential documentary projects.
Week
11

Module 3: Documentary Film Production

4h

Units 1-3: Documentary Film Production

4 study hours
  • •Study Module 3: Documentary Film Production, focusing on the methods, requirements, and scriptwriting involved.
  • •Begin pre-production planning for your final documentary project.
Week
12

Module 4: Editing in Documentary Film Production

4h

Units 1-3: Editing in Documentary Film Production

4 study hours
  • •Explore Module 4: Editing in Documentary Film Production, learning about editing modes, functions, and principles.
  • •Experiment with basic editing techniques using available software.
Week
13

Module 5: Performing Criticism of a Documentary Film

4h

Units 1-3: Performing Criticism of a Documentary Film

4 study hours
  • •Review Module 5: Performing Criticism of a Documentary Film, understanding film criticism, types, and functions.
  • •Develop critical thinking skills by analyzing and evaluating existing documentaries.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all unit objectives and key terms to ensure thorough understanding.

2

Practice scriptwriting exercises, focusing on clear narrative structure and compelling dialogue.

3

Analyze successful documentary films, identifying key elements of their production and editing.

4

Create flashcards for important film terminology and concepts.

5

Form study groups to discuss challenging topics and share insights.

6

Practice editing short video clips to gain hands-on experience with editing software.

7

Review tutor-marked assignments and self-assessment exercises to identify areas for improvement.

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