Media and film studies
Factual Production
Module code: P4162
Level 4
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop, Practical
Assessment modes: Coursework, Portfolio
On this module, you’ll explore the core skills of producing factual content, with a particular focus on:
- sound recording
- conducting interviews
- working with real people
- working in real environments.
You’ll learn to operate professional-standard audio and video equipment, including:
- microphones
- portable recorders and cameras
- editing software.
You’ll gain practical experience in:
- capturing clean location sound
- conducting ethically informed interviews
- shaping non-fiction narratives using audio and visual materials.
The module emphasises ethical considerations when working with contributors, addressing issues such as consent, representation, and responsibility in factual storytelling. The teaching is aligned with current industry practice and introduces you to professional workflows and the key concepts that underpin careers in:
- documentary
- factual television
- media production.
A series of exercises will help you to develop confidence in your voice as a factual storyteller, while also building the foundational skills necessary for employment in the screen industries.
Module learning outcomes
- Demonstrate basic technical competence in using industry-standard equipment for sound and video recording in factual contexts.
- Plan and conduct interviews with attention to narrative intention, ethical considerations, and contributor engagement.
- Apply appropriate workflows for location sound recording and post-production, including audio synchronisation and basic sound editing.
- Reflect critically on the ethical, practical, and creative challenges of producing factual content involving real people and real environments.