STS.064

DV Lab: Documenting Science through Video and New Media

3-3-6 units. HASS-A; CI-H · Undergraduate

See description under subject 21A.550[J] . Limited to 12.

Fall 2012

This course is an introductory exploration of documentary film theory and production, focusing on documentaries about science, engineering, and related fields. Students engage in digital video production as well as social and media analysis of science documentaries. Readings are drawn from social studies of science as well as from documentary film theory. The courses uses documentary video making as a tool to explore the worlds of science and engineering, as well as a tool for thinking analytically about media itself and the social worlds in which science is embedded. The course includes a hands-on lab component devoted to digital video production, in addition to classroom lectures and in-class film screenings.

Readings

Barnouw, Eric. Documentary: A History of the Non-fiction Film . 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, 1993. ISBN: 9780195078985. [Preview with Google Books ] ↗
Required
Ascher, Steven, and Edward Pincus. The Filmmaker’s Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide for the Digital Age: 2013 Edition . Plume Publishers/Penguin, 2012. ISBN: 9780452297289.
Required
Brenneis, Lisa, and M. Wohl. Final Cut Pro X: Visual QuickStart Guide . Peachpit Press, 2011. ISBN: 9780321774668. [Preview with Google Books ] ↗
Required
Readings in these books are complemented by selections from other books and journals. Graduate students are expected to read additional papers and chapters each week.
Required
On lab days, there is often optional background reading on camera and filmmaking techniques or Final Cut Pro®. This is truly optional. You will be given instruction on how to use the equipment and editing software during class time. The Filmmaker’s Handbook and Final Cut Pro X: Visual QuickPro Guide are intended as reference guides if you need assistance figuring out a problem (with designated chapters to suggest likely places to look for aid). You are not expected to read these chapters straight through.
Required

Prerequisites & course information

Same subject as 21A.550[J] Subject meets with 21A.559 Prereq: None U (Fall) Not offered regularly; consult department 3-3-6 units. HASS-A; CI-H

Sources

Course catalogue ↗2026–2027
MIT OpenCourseWare ↗Fall 2012
MIT OCW syllabus ↗
Historical MIT OpenCourseWare offering. Named reading entries and schedule topics are automatically extracted from the linked source pages.