SPCH103: Performance Development

Credit Hours:
3
Estimated Hours Per Week:
5

Overview

The presentation of aural and visual information in digital media calls into play most aspects of the psychology of human communication. This class develops skills in the actions and behaviors we use to communicate meaning, as well as the vocal tone and tenor through which we prove our credibility and close knowledge of content. Those who master these principles will be more polished and professional, and more comfortable in front of the camera and microphone. And, therefore, will be more appealing to their audiences. Ultimately, such qualities help make us better, more marketable communicators in every area of life in which we interact with others.

The majority of assignments and the final project (building a comparative audio and video resume) require submission as MP3 and video posts. Students will read web-based assignments and web-based video to learn the most significant principles in this class. Students also will have access to podcasts derived from Jones video.

Course Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  • Modulate pace, volume, energy, and pitch in voice-over delivery to convey appropriate levels of emphasis, neutrality, emotional variation, and thoughtfulness.
  • Appear comfortable and relaxed during on-camera delivery while communicating a sense of story context through appropriate actions and behaviors.
  • Dress for various reporting environments, and when and how to use makeup for high definition television.
  • Self-assess your communication performances and help coach others’ performances.
ENROLLMENT
To enroll in this course, please complete the online application.

Special Requirements

This course is a digital media course. Therefore, you will need a way to record high-quality audio and video every week. Specifically, you will need the following:

  • A video camera (preferably digital
  • Basic two light setup for video (at minimum)
  • A sturdy tripod
  • Capability to digitally transfer video from camera onto a computer hard drive
  • Video-capture and editing software such as Windows Movie Maker (standard with Windows XP) or iLife (Mac
  • A free account on YouTube
  • A headset or stand microphone connected to your computer. Please obtain the highest quality USB microphone you can.
  • Audio capturing and editing software such as Audacity (free download for Windows, Linux, or Mac) or GarageBand (Mac)

Required Texts
SPCH103 texts are available from the JIU/Follett Bookstore