Abstract The proposed Associate of Applied Science degree in Sound Design for Visual Media bridges a vital gap between the music-focused Associate of Applied Science degree in Commercial Music: Sound Engineer currently offered, and the anticipated change of an evolving and broad-based multimedia landscape. Projected implementation of the degree is slated for the fall 2013 semester and approximately 66 credits are required for completion. Five full time faculty members will teach related courses with the possibility of additional adjunct instructors should the need arise. The Sound Design program provides a balance of workforce-‐specific technical training and broad-‐based coursework. At the core of the degree is a final portfolio that showcases the creative and technical proficiencies that are required for entry-‐level employment in the film, music, audio, and broadcast media fields. Along with five general education courses, the degree provides hands-‐ on training in electronic music composition, video camera operation and editing, sound design, audio postproduction and assorted electives including lighting and film scoring. The degree may be completed in four semesters and culminates with a final capstone portfolio demo reel sufficient for entry-‐level employment in the media field. The U.S. Department of Labor Skill Assessment and the Occupational Information Network System provides detailed descriptions of the work world for use by job seekers, workforce development and Human Resource professionals, students, and researchers. A careful evaluation of national trends in the audiovisual job network shows a solid growth pattern both nationally and in the state of Texas. In Texas alone, the audiovisual field is expected to grow nearly 20% over the next eight years. While the field remains very competitive, the data shows potential for graduates to find employment after they finish their matriculation. The primary audience for the proposed Sound Design for Visual Media degree include high school students involved in theater crews, audiovisual clubs and those students with a genuine interest in broadcasting, film, media, music composition and music technology. Students currently enrolled in the Sound Engineering program may choose to double-major, in order to receive more specialized training in audio postproduction. Additionally the program may attract worship leaders and multimedia professionals eager to further their knowledge and specialization in the media production field. Due to the highly specialized and technical nature of the Sound Design for Visual Media degree, courses will be delivered in a synchronous fashion at specified times. This course delivery method better facilitates individual and group activities. Classes are structured into a blended approach of theoretical lecture with practical laboratory exercises. This ensures the program is hands-on and practical towards the specific needs of the workforce. Courses will be taught in the Music Hall and in the Performing Arts Center, which is home to the Commercial Music department. Courses in this degree may be taught with existing resources and current full time faculty. No additional facilities would be required to start the degree in the fall of 2013. We project a minimum of five to ten students for the first year with ongoing enrollment. As the program grows, we’ll target an increase of ten students per year thereafter.
Background Information The Commercial Music Department at Lamar State College-Port Arthur originally introduced an Associate of Applied Science degree in Sound Engineering in the fall of 2006. That degree came about during a massive restructuring of the music department from a traditional Associate of Arts degree towards a more contemporary focus. In addition to the Sound Engineering degree e, a Commercial Music Performance degree was introduced as well. For several years, community response to the Commercial Music program was generally enthusiastic. Recruiting efforts centered on high schools in the southeast Texas region and in southwest Louisiana. The Commercial Music department enlisted assistance from respected musicians and industry professionals concerning the quality of program offerings and degree plans. However, the majority of these individuals lack a broader-based perspective on the rapid advancement of media production technology. The Sound Engineering degree provides ample exposure to digital audio recording, live sound, electronics, and music fundamentals. While these areas are vital in their inclusion, enrolled students received little to no exposure in other facets of audio for media including sound design, video editing, lighting, and music composition. Additionally, the program does not currently feature an internship or formal portfolio preparation course either. Graduates of the program have a solid foundation in musicspecific platforms, but are largely under-qualified to procure entry-level employment in other related industries that require a broader set of audiovisual skill sets. In January of 2012, the Commercial Music department hired an outstanding full time faculty member with an MFA in Sound Design. This addition brought depth and scope to the department as a whole. That instructor is certified as a master electrician in addition to many years of professional experience in the audio field. In June of 2012, the Commercial Music Chair relocated to another state for a new professional opportunity. Ultimately a new Department Chair was hired with dual expertise in the areas of music performance and sound design/engineering. In September of 2011, Lamar State College-Port Arthur implemented a formalized assessment and evaluation structure in an effort to unify the objectives of the Commercial Music Performance and Sound Engineering majors. A more concise set of Program Student Learning Outcomes and Course Student Learning Outcomes sought to improve pedagogical and learning objectives to ensure consistency and relevance of assessment techniques. The Commercial Music Department collected artifacts and assigned specific rubrics to each class in an effort to build a database with which to evaluate and assess students more accurately. These artifacts were correlated and included in the Institutional Effectiveness Report as requested by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools during Lamar State College’s 2012-2013 reaffirmation process. Adopting specific criteria for both program and course learning outcomes facilitated ongoing discussions among the administration on how to better serve students in the Sound Engineering program specifically. The college’s aims include improving student enrollment, persistence, graduation rate, and overall consistency among all entities on campus. Staff and faculty from the Commercial Music Department discussed and eventually proposed several certificate programs in an effort to diversify degree options and increase enrollment. The end result was the formal adoption of an Entertainment
Business Certificate and Music Performance certificate. These certificate programs were designed to provide additional specialization outside of core degree offerings and provide a timelier graduation date for those students not interested in taking general education classes. After initially reviewing existing course offerings, degree matrices, advising sheets, previous Quality Enhancement Plans, and the existing college catalog, a general lack of consistency and accuracy clearly appeared. Previous decisions in the Commercial Music Department centered mostly on the Performance degree with little focus on the Sound Engineering degree. Advising sheets and the Lamar State College-Port Arthur college catalog contained numerous errors as well. More specifically, MUEN courses existed on the LSC-PA campus when the college offered a more traditional Associate of Arts in Music degree. That degree was eliminated in 2010; however the course catalog was not updated to reflect these omissions. Other errors included elective offerings that were sufficient for the Commercial Music Performance major, but not the Sound Engineering major. These errors are magnified by the fact that several Commercial Music students double-major in both Music Performance and Sound Engineering. Perhaps the most egregious error includes elective offerings for courses that have never been taught on campus. These errors are not immediately apparent upon first glance, but provide major challenges when advising students on which courses to take while ensuring their timely graduation. The end result of these errors is an overall lack of consistency and transparency between the Student Advising Department, Department Chair, the THECB, and the WECM standards. Once the Sound Engineering degree was revised, research commenced on an appropriate degree program that incorporates sound for film, video editing, and music composition. The Commercial Music department recently hosted an advisory panel meeting in November of 2012. This meeting was the first of its type in over two years. The intent of the meeting was to receive input from the local community regarding current and prospective degree offerings. The college relies heavily on this unbiased input to ensure that each degree and certificate will adequately serve the local student population and area workforce. It is through these meetings that course revisions and potential contacts for internships are fostered. Members from Gulf Coast Audio, Goodyear Custom Audiovisual specifically mentioned the need for two separate emphasis tracks in the current A.A.S. program in Sound Engineering. One track deals particularly with the creative application of sound, which currently exists in the degree matrix. The other suggested track emphasized an electronics and technical specification. In this track, potential students would learn the basics of audiovisual installation, repair, maintenance, and more depth in the area of live sound. Above and beyond that, members of the committee expressed a concern that music-specific training is not sufficient in ensuring career solvency in southeast Texas. Minutes from the first Program Advisory meeting also reveal that potential employers seek applicants with a diverse skill set and the ability to work independently and with professionalism. Members pointed out the changing state of the economy, and how diverse skill sets allow them to stay in business in a small market area including Beaumont and Port Arthur Texas. Because the audiovisual industry is so small and niche-focused, potential graduates must have a broad range of abilities in order to procure employment after college.
The Commercial Music Advisory Panel represents an accurate cross-section of the media and broadcast industries in Southeast Texas. Lamar State College-Port Arthur is the only higher education institution with plans to offer sound design and audio postproduction courses within a 100 mile radius. Members of the advisory panel deal extensively with broadcasting, sound design, audiovisual repair, installation, customization and service. Their geographical workforce area extends to Beaumont, Texas and Lake Charles, Louisiana. Houston is approximately ninety miles west of Port Arthur. The core mission of the Sound Design for Visual Media degree focuses on delivering content that supports a visual narrative structure. Students are exposed to dialog replacement, Foley, video editing, short-form production using digital video cameras, nonlinear editing technology, copywriting and modern delivery systems. In addition to a strong foundation in digital audio workstations, students learn key musical concepts that may be used to create film scores, or soundtrack music for games and video. As the entertainment industry finds ways to cut costs, often these roles are outsourced to one individual, who creates the many layers needed for a film, web video, or similar visual image. In this context, sound design for visual media aims to create a synergy between audio production, basic video editing and short-form production, music fundamentals, and professional best practices. All courses within the Sound Design for Visual Media degree will emphasize problem solving strategies, team building, critical thinking, and working independently while meeting deadlines. These professional best practices ensure that once a student completes their training, they are sufficiently prepared for entrylevel employment in the field. Most importantly, students will graduate with a strong digital media portfolio that best exemplifies their future employment potential. Assessment of Need and Program Planning/Approval The proposed Sound Design for Visual Media degree bridges the creative aspects of mixing audio and multimedia for broadcast and performance with a structured curriculum in video editing, music fundamentals, and strong elective options. Audiovisual production, broadcasting, gaming, web production, corporate communications, and editing are viable employment options for graduates of this degree program. While most audio engineering programs focus on studio production, there are very few that explore the potential of sound design comprehensively. This proposed degree would be one of only a few in the United States that dedicates a substantial amount of class time to soundtrack creation for all forms of visual media. Some audio engineering programs offer a course or two in audio postproduction, but lack the depth and breadth of this proposed degree offering. The closest opportunity for this specific training is in Houston, Texas, more than ninety miles from Lamar State College-Port Arthur. After the initial Program Advisory Committee meeting in November of 2012, members and administration from the Commercial Music Department conducted a debrief session concerning input from the first meeting. Faculty members observed the challenges of teaching the basic tenants of audio postproduction in a decidedly music-intensive curriculum. Instructor feedback revealed a lack of emphasis on broader-based media competencies and no inclusion of video editing.
Faculty members observed that the only real opportunity to expose students to basic sound design exists in Audio Engineering IV (MUSC 2448). Instructor feedback revealed a disconnection between music-centered workflows and those of filmmakers. Students had difficulty understanding the common roles of sound editors and how to effectively produce audio content for video trailers. Instructor feedback also revealed that students expressed interest in producing their own videos and multimedia content in an effort to support their artist career aspirations. Lamar State College-Port Arthur has no courses that deal with video editing. This proposed degree in Sound Design for Visual Media provides ample elective course opportunities for students campus-wide and in the community as well. Plans are underway to include video editing as a continuing education course. Individuals that complete two levels of beginning coursework may receive credit towards degree completion. The Commercial Music department receives numerous inquiries about video editing courses each semester. The proposed Sound Design for Visual Media degree does not overlook the importance of basic video production and editing proficiency. The mission of the program is to empower multimedia content producers with relevant skills to communicate effectively via the Internet and with mobile technology. As such, numerous courses in the proposed degree plan will serve as electives for outside majors. Commercial Music faculty and administration consensus revealed an increased emphasis on sound design would be a welcome addition to current degree offerings. Faculty discussed these findings with the Dean of Technical Programs and the Vice President of Academic Affairs. Those discussions provided adequate support and infrastructure for the proposed Sound Design for Visual Media degree.
COURSE CATEGORY
CONTACT HOURS
MUSI1301 Music Fundamentals
48
COMM 2303 Audio/Radio Production I
64
COMM2304 Intro to Cinematic Production
48
FLMC2330: Audio Post Production
96
MUSI1310 American Popular Music
48
COURSE
SEMESTER
TAKEN
TAKEN
GRADE
MUSI 1181 Class Piano I
48
ENGL1301 Comp. 1
48
MUSC1396: Special Topics: Critical Listening
64
PHIL 1301: Intro to Philosophy
48
PHYS1415 Physical Science
96
BUSI1301: Business Principles
48
MUSI1291: Electronic Music I
48
MUSI1391: Electronic Music II
48
RTVB2330: Film and Video Editing
96
RTVB1347: Audio/Radio Production II
64
MUSB1305: Survey of Music Business
48
MUSC2351: Audio for Video
96
RTVB2331: Audio/Radio Production III
64
RTVB2340: Portfolio Development (Capstone)
96
2 Approved Electives
xxx
Total
64-68 credits
Sound Design for Visual Media Mission Statement: The Sound Design for Visual Media Program at Lamar State College-Port Arthur blends music production, sound design and video technology to create compelling multimedia content for all forms of visual media including web, video, film, animation, mobile technology, and games. The Sound Design for Visual Media Program’s aims are to provide hands-on training utilizing industry-standard technology while focusing on professional best practices to build a music production and sound design portfolio that supports the visual narrative and demonstrates a broad range of creative skill sets including video editing, music composition, and sound design . Graduates of the Sound Design Program are prepared for entry -level positions as audio and video editors, production assistants, sound designers, radio board operators, multimedia composers and audiovisual technicians. Sound Design for Visual Media Learning Outcomes: a) Students will demonstrate basic proficiency in creating original music and audio that supports the visual narrative. b) Students will demonstrate basic proficiency in nonlinear audio and video editing techniques. c) Students will demonstrate basic proficiency in short-form video production, media delivery formats, and audiovisual workflow. d) Students will demonstrate ability to recognize and observe professional best practices in the audiovisual field, including the various roles in film, audio engineering, and media. e) Students will demonstrate proficiency in the use of modern digital audio workstations, analog recording technology, cameras, and field recorders related to editing, sound design and postproduction. f) Students will produce a final portfolio and resume suitable for entry-level employment in the audiovisual field. g) Students will learn to critically evaluate audiovisual content through peer review and critique. h) Students will demonstrate increased proficiency in audio critical listening and recognition of emerging compositional styles within the sound, film, animation and gaming industries.
1
2
3
4
NAME (F, P)
COURSES TAUGHT
ACADEMIC DEGREES& COURSEWORK
OTHER QUALIFICATIONS & COMMENTS
Relevant to Courses Taught, Including Institution & Major
Related to Courses Taught
Including Term, Course Number & Title, Credit Hours (D, UN, UT, G)
List specific graduate coursework, if needed
UN, UNT: Audio for Video: MUSC2351, 3 Intro to Cinematic Production: COMM2304, 3 John Freyermuth: F
American Popular Music: MUSI1301, 3 Survey of Music Business, MUSB1305, 3
Aaron Horne: F
UN: Film and Video Editing: RTVB2330, 3 Audio Post Production: FLMC 2330, 3
Masters of Fine Arts in Sound Design: Savannah College of Art and Design.
Bachelor of Arts in Radio and Audio Media: Emerson College
6 years of professional experience.
Bachelor of Music in Composition and Music Education (Double Major) from Arkansas Tech University
Audio Post Production and Audio Engineering Certificates: MediaTech, Austin, TX
Runs a successful commercial recording studio in Beaumont, TX.
Jon-Michael Wallace: F
UN:
BM: Texas State Univ.
Special Topics: Critical Listening: MUSC1396, 3
Daniel Walzer: F
Ten years of professional experience.
UN, UNT:
BM: Bowling Green State University
Audio/Radio Prod: COMM2303, 3
MM: University of Cincinnati
Pro Tools Certification
Audio/Radio Prod. 2: RTVB1347, 3
MFA: Sound Design, Academy of Art University (2014)
Fifteen years of professional audio/broadcast experience.
Audio/Radio Prod. 3: RTVB2331, 3 Portfolio Development: RTVB2340, 3
PhD: Education, Northcentral University (2015)
UN, UNT: Electronic Music I: MUSI1291, 3 Heath Vercher: F
Electronic Music II MUSI1391, 3 Music Fundamentals: MUSI1301, 3
BM: University of Louisiana-Lafayette MM: University of Louisiana-Lafayette
Professional pianist and composer. Ten years of experience. Worship leader and music director for churches in SETX
Faculty Commercial Music faculty members are experienced in studio, music composition and live recording applications. The proposed lead instructor for the new Sound Design for Visual Media degree has a Master of Fine Arts in Sound Design. Additional support faculty members have taught courses on the Lamar State College-Port Arthur campus since 2008. ACGM courses are taught by instructors with appropriate graduate degrees and all other instructors fulfill credentialing requirements as well. All instructors in the sound division currently teach audio and music-specific courses in the existing Sound Engineering program including Audio Engineering I-IV, MIDI, Audio Critical Listening, Audio Electronics, Acoustics, Live Sound, Class Piano, Music Theory, Music Business and Special Topics Normally full-time instructors carry a 4/4 or 5/5 teaching load depending on enrollment. In the event of a potential overload, adjustments are made in music-specific courses to ensure that those with technical specializations are available to teach related certificate classes. The college has a strong infrastructure to help students with special needs and there are three dedicated advisors who work with students on scheduling in addition to the Department Chair. To be certain, five full-time Commercial Music faculty members provide adequate teaching support to ensure that the degree is properly staffed. While scheduling options are flexible, the initial course offerings would center on three in the fall, and three in the spring. The college also offers courses during the summer, and this would ensure that students may graduate in a timely manner. With an expected enrollment of five to ten students the first year, this initiative causes little change in current program workload. The Commercial Music department recently hired an adjunct instructor with abilities in both applied lessons and classroom lecture. What overload courses may exist for current full-time staff could transition to additional classes for the adjunct instructor. This option provides some flexibility for how courses will be scheduled to ensure timely enrollment and progress through the Sound Design for Visual Media degree. Additional members of the technical theater staff have more than a decade of video and television experience, and may be called upon to teach a course should the need arise. Any music-specific courses in the degree may also be transferred to additional fulltime teachers with less than 100% teaching loads. The end result of this process is proper support for the newly designed degree matrix. Library and Learning Resources Lamar State College-Port Arthur is home to the Gates Memorial Library. The facility houses a 50-seat computer lab, numerous reading and study rooms, and is open more than 70 hours six days a week during each semester. Students may access the library catalog 24 hours a day and reserve books through inter-library loan. The library boasts an impressive collection of more than 45,000 books and 24,000 E-books. In addition to these resources, the library has access to four specific databases dedicated to the Humanities. These resources may be accessed both on and off campus for student projects and additional research. The humanities-specific databases include Academic Search Complete, Directory of Open Access Journals, Net Library, and the Musicians and Composers Section of Salem History.
As an additional resource, students with valid ID may also check out periodicals, books, and similar content from the Lamar-Orange, Port Arthur Public, and Lamar University-Beaumont libraries. These resources combine to support the Sound Design for Visual Media degree efficiently. Students are not limited to library use. The Museum of the Gulf Coast resides two blocks from the Lamar State College-Port Arthur campus and provides ample resources into the rich musical history of the Golden Triangle. Students are also permitted to check out iPads for research and use in the classroom. The Commercial Music department has nearly twenty that may be reserved during scheduled classes. Lamar State College-Port Arthur utilizes Blackboard teaching software. The institution requires that all instructors teaching online courses be certified in the software’s best practices as a part of ongoing faculty and professional development. For faculty members interested in furthering their specialization, the college provides financial incentive awards for completion. The college also staffs a Distance Learning Coordinator and IT staff should the need arise for technical support. Recently the college formed a Distance Learning Committee which meets regularly to assess, evaluate, and improve all aspects of online and E-learning initiatives on campus. A commercial Music faculty member serves on that committee, and the college is working towards a seamless integration of traditional and asynchronous learning options for the fall of 2013. Physical Resources The Commercial Music program is fortunate to have a dedicated 200-seat music hall where ensemble performances are held weekly during each semester. The facility features a JBL amplifier and monitor system for both front of house and on-stage amplification. The hall utilizes both analog and digital consoles for a variety of performance options and configurations. The live sound system is anchored by a 32-channel Soundcraft S1 digital console. This mixer features a touch-screen and on-board effects with multiple routing and summing options. This piece of equipment was installed in September of 2012 and all students in the live sound courses train on it. The department also utilizes an analog Allen and Heath console that is also 48 channels. A large assortment of equalizers, delays, compressors and delay-based effects are available in a rack-mounted system as well. The live sound courses feature a wide array of condenser, dynamic, and ribbon microphones. These microphones are utilized during live performances and in the specific classes as well. The stage area uses a Motif keyboard with outboard effects, direct boxes and amplifiers. The stage area also features an Ampeg bass amplifier, a Fender Blues Junior guitar amplifier, and a six piece PDP maple drum set with cymbals. Each of these individual instruments are amplified and used with an assortment of microphones including Audix, Shure Beta 57s, and Beta 81s. An average of 16-18 channels is used for each concert, and students start with the most basic forms of microphone technique. A more extensive microphone locker resides in the Performing Arts Center. Some of these microphones are used for live performance should the need arise. The Music Hall also features a complete lighting rig, which is incorporated into live concerts each week. Student assistants are trained in proper use of the lighting set up as well. For off-campus performances, the department makes use of a Yamaha 16-channel O2r digital console. These smaller mixers allow for easy set-up and tear down of the touring band. Students enrolled in the Live Sound and Electronics Certificate program may assist with the department’s top ensemble, Section 51, which is a touring group comprised of the most experienced Commercial Music Performance
majors. This ensemble performs all over Southeast Texas and assisting in live sound reinforcement provides excellent hands-on experience for potential applicants into the program. The touring band has a complete backline of instruments, microphones, cables, and wedges for outdoor performances. All of that gear is kept in the back of the Music Hall for touring band concerts off campus. The equipment is locked in customized cases and is loaded onto a truck that the school owns. None of the gear may be used without supervision. Students set up and tear down the equipment along with each instructor. The process is collaborative and extremely effective in simulating a real-world environment. Generally two or three ensembles perform each semester with plans for expansion in the fall of 2013. The Performing Arts Center is home to the Commercial Music Department. This six million dollar facility was built less than ten years ago, and houses a 400 hundred seat theater. The Commercial Music Sound Engineering wing resides here, with three studios available for use. Studio A features a 16channel Presonus Studio Live console integrated with Pro Tools HD, Logic, and Final Cut Pro. Studio B features a Mackie Control surface with Cubase, Pro Tools, Sonar and Reason. Studio C features a Digidesign Control 24 with Logic, Pro Tools, Reason, Cubase and Final Cut Pro. Each of these studios is used for labs and individual use outside of class. The Performing Arts Center is home to the theater department. The auditorium seats more than 400 and is also utilized for special concerts and events on campus. The theater’s analog console features 72 channels and is integrated with an extensive lighting software program. Behind the main stage is a scene shop, a black box theater and a fly gallery. Discussions are underway for more integration of the theater’s facilities into the newly proposed certificate program. At present, several current Sound Engineering majors assist with theatrical productions each semester. Outside of the more expansive facilities, the Performing Arts Center features a 10-seat Mac lab with digital audio recording and editing software, a 20-seat PC lab with similar equipment and two 15-seat piano labs. One piano lab features Yamaha Clavinovas which are controlled by a teacher station. That room also houses an acoustic grand piano. The smaller piano lab features electronic keyboards which are used for music fundamentals courses. All of these rooms are equipped with a large projection screen and ceiling-mounted projector. The existing Commercial Music facilities allow for outstanding learning experiences for prospective students. Each buying decision is carefully analyzed and must support student learning objectives. Over the past five years, the college’s administration has approved a substantial investment in these facilities which demonstrates a true commitment to the long-term growth of the department. Equipment is in good condition, routinely inspected and repaired, and in some cases brand new. This is an important fact to note as students will utilize similar equipment after leaving the institution. The department has adopted a balanced teaching approach in combining analog and digital technology, so that students receive a broad-based perspective on what live sound reinforcement might entail. In addition to this, the electronic-specific courses utilize appropriate soldering kits, graphic calculators, multimeters and supplementary materials for each lesson. The end result of these efforts is a program with real depth that is both hands-on and practical for prospective students. The Commercial Music department plans to expand its video capabilities by purchasing a select number of digital video cameras, green screen, and appropriate nonlinear editing software for the Macintosh lab. The ten-seat lab is housed in the Performing Arts Center. The Music Hall serves well for
recording Foley and the three recording studios on campus provide ample opportunity for ADR, and recording music for picture. The department also plans to purchase a select number of boom microphones, field recorders, and headphones for on-location recording opportunities. Financial Support
Evaluation and Assessment The vision for the proposed degree in Sound Design for Visual Media aligns similarly with stated objectives in the 2011-2012 Commercial Music Institutional Effectiveness Report. The report notes a desired outcome that the Sound Engineering program meets the needs of matriculating students for increased marketability in the audio industry. At present, the program’s main focus includes studiocentered audio training and foundational courses in music theory, piano with certain elective options. Results from the findings include a need for continual cross-collaboration between departments on the Lamar State College-Port Arthur campus. These collaborative opportunities provide hands-on working experience for potential enrollees in the Sound Design for Visual Media program. With an increased focus on diverse skill sets, students enrolled in the proposed degree are exposed to audio editing and recording, electronic music composition, lighting, and important facets of video production. These objectives may be met with additional input from the theater and drama department, which is housed in the same building as the Commercial Music Program. A broad offering of courses fulfills an important niche in the market of Southeast Texas. Many currently enrolled students are sound technicians and worship leaders in churches around the area. A specialization in sound design increases their chances of employment even before graduating from college. Secondly, the department continues to explore scheduling options for non-traditional students who are unable to attend traditional classes during the day. A few of these options include night and weekend classes to increase enrollment prospects and persistence within the program itself. The Program Advisory Committee is comprised of working industry professionals within the Southeast Texas area. This committee plans to meet at least once a semester to review curriculum, technology, facilities and degree plans. The core of the proposed degree in Sound Design for Visual Media came from discussions and direct feedback from the Program Advisory Committee. Their working knowledge of the local audio community provides a relevant perspective in which courses to offer. Internally, assessment and evaluation remain an important component in measuring the overall effectiveness of the Sound Engineering program. Based on established Sound Engineering program learning outcomes, newly devised rubrics with a renewed emphasis in sound design and video production are necessary. These learning outcomes are created with faculty input and supervision by the Dean of Technical Programs. Additionally, the Dean of Technical Programs now oversees the assessment component of Institutional Effectiveness. Based on that initial feedback, revision of program learning outcomes will align closely with the projected 2012-2013 Institutional Effectiveness Plan for Commercial Music.
The Institutional Effectiveness Committee meets each semester to review the current IE plan, along with feedback and revision for the upcoming school year’s plan as well. In this instance, input centers primarily on a concrete and attainable set of program learning outcomes for the Live Sound and Electronics Certificate. Once data is collected, further revision and amendments will be made. A synergy is expected between the input received from the Program Advisory Committee, current Commercial Music faculty, and the Institutional Effectiveness Chair. The end result of these efforts is a solvent program with clearly-stated program learning outcomes.
Appendix One Credit:Lec:Lab:Contact Course Descriptions: BUSI 1301 Business Principles
3:3:0:48
Introduction to the role of business in modern society, including an overview of business operations, analysis of specialized fields within the business organization and development of a business vocabulary. Course also includes an introduction to public policy processes and issues, with a focus on ethical and moral consideration. (Prerequisite: Basic skills competency in reading) COMM 2303 Audio/Radio Production I
3:3:1:64
Concepts and techniques of sound production, including the coordinating and directing processes. Hands-on experience with equipment, sound sources, and direction of talent. COMM 2304 Introduction to Cinematic Production
3:3:0:48
Basic single-camera production concepts and techniques. ENGL 1301 Composition
3:3:0:48
Intensive study of and practice in writing processes, from invention and researching to drafting, revising, and editing, both individually and collaboratively. Emphasis on effective rhetorical choices, including audience, purpose, arrangement, and style. Focus on writing the academic essay as a vehicle for learning, communicating, and critical analysis. (Prerequisite: basic skills competency in reading and writing required) FLMC 2330 Audio Post Production
3:3:3:96
Skill development utilizing the technology, creative application and requirements for producing audio soundtracks for film and video. MATH 1332 College Mathematics I
3:3:0:48
Sets, the systems of whole numbers, the system of integers, elementary number theory, the system of rationales and the system of real numbers. (Prerequisite: MATH 0332 or a passing score on an approved placement test) MUSB 1305 Survey of Music Business
3:3:0:48
An introductory overview of the music industry including songwriting, live performance, the record industry, music merchandising, contracts, licenses and career opportunities.
MUSC 1396: Special Topics: Critical Listening
3:3:1:64
Topics address recently identified current events, skills, knowledge, and/or attitudes and behaviors pertinent to the technology or occupation and relevant to the professional development of the student. This course was designed to be repeated multiple times to improve student proficiency. (Prerequisite: MUSI 1301) MUSC 2351 Audio for Video
3:3:3:96
Advanced audio techniques for video production. Includes synchronization, automated mix down, audio post production for video, and editing techniques. (Prerequisite: RTVB 1347, RTVB 2330) MUSI 1301 Music Fundamentals
3:3:0:48
Preparation for the study of music theory, including scales, terminology, chords, key and time signatures, the structures of music and musical notation. MUSI 1310 American Popular Music
3:3:0:48
A study of the evolution of popular American music styles that are powerful reflections of American culture. Includes a survey of music created, performed and reflective of a unique American style, including jazz, ragtime, southern music, blues, swing, folk, country, western and newer popular music styles, such as rock and roll and hip-hop. MUSI 1181 Piano Class Instruction I
1:2:1:64
Classroom instruction in keyboard technique fundamentals for students with limited piano background. Includes scales chord progressions, sight reading drills and selections from solo literature. MUSI 1291 Electronic Music I
3:3:0:48
Introduction to the use of synthesizers, computers, sequencing and music printing software, multi-track recorders and other MIDI (Music Instrument Digital Interface) devices in the notation, arrangement, composition and performance of music. (Prerequisite MUSI 1301) MUSI 1391 Electronic Music II
3:3:0:48
Introduction to the use of synthesizers, computers, sequencing and music printing software, multi-track recorders and other MIDI (Music Instrument Digital Interface) devices in the notation, arrangement, composition and performance of music. (Prerequisite: MUSI 1291)
PHIL 1301 Introduction to Philosophy
3:3:0:48
Introduction to the study of ideas and their logical structure, including arguments and investigations about abstract and real phenomena. Includes introduction to the history, theories and methods of philosophy. (Prerequisite: Basic skills competency in reading and writing required) PHYS 1415 Physical Science I
4:3:3:96
A course for non-science majors. Topics may include astronomy, chemistry, geology, meteorology or physics. RTVB 1347 Audio/Radio Production II
3:3:1:64
Audio production theories regarding multi-track recording, studio live production and equipment operation. (Prerequisite: COMM 2303) RTVB 2331 Audio/Radio Production III
3:3:1:64
Advanced concepts in audio/radio recording and editing. Includes digital editing, sound processing systems, and multi-track mix-down recording techniques. (Prerequisite: RTVB 1347) RTVB 2330 Film and Video Editing
3:3:3:96
Film and broadcast editing for the preparation and completion of shorts, trailers, documentaries, and features. RTVB 2340 Portfolio Development
3:3:3:96
Preparation and presentation of a portfolio suitable for employment in the media industry. This course is intended to be taken in the last semester. Two Approved Electives from MUSB or MUSC
6-8
Appendix Two First Semester: MUSI 1301
Music Fundamentals
3
COMM2303
Audio/Radio Production (ACGM)
3
MUSI 1310
American Popular Music
3
MUSI1181
Class Piano I
3
ENGL 1301
English Composition I
3 15 credits
Second Semester: MUSC 1296
Special Topics in Recording Tech: Critical List. 3
COMM 2304
Intro to Cinematic Production (ACGM)
3
MUSI 1290
Electronic Music I (ACGM)
3
FLMC2330
Audio Post Production
3
SOCI 1301
Intro to Sociology
3 15 credits
Summer Semester PHYS1417
Physical Science
4
BUSI1301
Business Principles
3 7 credits
Third Semester MUSI 1390
Electronic Music II (ACGM)
3
RTVB2330
Film and Video Editing
3
RTVB1347
Audio/Radio Production II
3
XXXX
Approved Elective
2-4
MUSB1305
Survey of Music Business
3 15 Credits
Fourth Semester: MUSC2351
Audio for Video
3
RTVB2331
Audio/Radio Production III
3
XXXX
Approved Elective
2-4
RTVB2340
Portfolio Development (Capstone)
3
MATH1314
College Math
3
15 credits
64-68 credits total Possible Approved Electives: (Pick 2) FLMC 1304 Lighting for Film or Video FLMC 2344 Advanced Video Editing ARTV1343 Digital Sound MUSC1005 Live Sound I MUSC1335 Commercial Music Software MUSC2333 Scoring for Video or Film DRAM2336: Voice for the Theater (ACGM) COMM 2339 Writing for Radio, Television, & Film CETT1305: AC Circuits
Appendix Three
Commercial Music Sound Design Advisory Panel Minutes The meeting was called to order at 11:15am on November 13th, 2012. Introductions were made. Present Committee Members: Kevin Born: Production Director, Clear Channel Radio-Beaumont Scott Price: Operations Manager, Fox 4 News-Beaumont Kelly Tate: Gulf Coast Audio Jim Goodyear: Goodyear Custom A/V Dan Walzer: LSCPA John Freyermuth: LSCPA A series of questions were presented to the committee for possible discussion. Dan Walzer opened up the meeting with a personal introduction and overview of existing CM programs. All members of the committee were introduced and Dan explained the change in focus of a new degree program along with the purpose of the panel’s meeting. Both Dan and John Freyermuth spoke about the current population of students at LSCPA and provided some background on what is currently taught at the school. 1) What do you as potential employers expect one of our outgoing graduates to be able to accomplish in your work place? •
Kelly Tate- Church sound installation, live sound installation and engineering, his work focuses on the technical side of live sound. He works with cutting edge church services, including streaming and podcasts of mass. o He believes that local television would be the main source for potential student employment. o Owns and operates Gulf Coast Audio o We need to differentiate our program from the degree and certificate programs offered at LIT and similar institutions. 2) How do we differ from other programs and what separates our potential graduates from graduates of other institutions?
o Goodyear and Tate claim that many of the potential employees that they screen are not qualified for the work they will be performing.
3) What do you as a potential employer want from one of our grads? o Ideal candidate would be able to perform … Technician/camera/audio board operator. Assemble/Install/Repair if necessary for the job. • A separation between the technician and the creative. We might want to consider two separate tracks. Basic understanding of non-linear editing programs like Avid is important. Separate repairman or technical track? Dual with LIT? •
Scott Price from Fox 4 wants a diverse skill set of new hires…
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Business: o All of the gentlemen at the meeting thought that we should implement a greater emphasis on some general business classes. A/V Business, Accounting, Cash Flow, Marketing, Business Operations, Management. Bios for Committee Members: •
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Kelly Tate: o Live sound and electronics, focusing on lighting and Church A/V as well as production PA rentals. o Said that you need to be diverse because of the small local market. John Goodyear: o Went to Lamar in 1971 o His father was an opera performer. o Sings in a number of bands and plays an array of instruments. o Started a company with a partner in 1983. o Started Goodyear Custom Audio in 1986. He is currently starting a medical division. o Loves his job and loves stereo equipment. Kevin Born: o Worked at cool 98.3 in 1983 o He is currently the production director for Clear Channel in Beaumont. o He believes strongly in creative writing for radio.
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o He helps sales people come up with outside of the box sales pitches for clients and believes that that particular skill would be very beneficial for students. o Loves his job and loves doing voiceover work Scott Price from Fox 4 in Beaumont: o Lamar grad from Film/Communications/Broadcast Department. o Works in TV. o Channel 6/ABC. o Executive Producer at Fox. o Hired Kenneth Kitchens, LSCPA student. o Is more involved in the operations side and took over as the operations manager for Fox in June. o Said Fox and its affiliates are moving or have moved to Avid Media Composer and Avid News Cutter.
Dan brought the meeting back to the questions initially posed and mentioned that in order for a program to be approved by the THECB, the school’s “industry” partners need to support such a path. Additionally, would potential graduates meet workforce standards and requirements? Additional Notes 4) What are some of the problems with current workforce and with students that they have dealt with as interns? o Students and potential employees need to work on doing it right the first time and getting the signal right at the source, whether it is for video or for audio. o Need to focus on getting the capture correct and not fixing it in post o They also need to focus on the humanity of a performance and not over editing it, proper editing procedure and an understanding of form and what the end product should sound like. o Many of them have poor or nonexistent video editing skills, with very little technique and no consideration for the material or the medium it will end up in. o They need to know what happens when you edit and think about why they are making an edit. o They need to have the ability to learn. o School gets you to think in particular terms, like how you think, how you process information, not specific software. They want general skills more than software specific skills.
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Scott also wants software and hardware specific skills as well as an understanding of the process that translates to other equipment. This is basic professional practice that all of the graduates need to adhere to. Common professional courtesy. o We need to teach students how to learn, like how to put things together, not just physical items but ideas and concepts. They need to understand different workflows and need to be flexible with their work flows. General Business o They need general business skills. o Need to pride themselves on customer satisfaction. o Understanding of overhead and how to manage it. o They need to be conscious of the image that they portray and put out to the public as well as understand the impact of a first impression and how their behavior can affect their business or their boss’s business. Writing o They need to have a creative approach to writing copy that grabs the listener’s attention and communicates the advertiser’s message. o They need to be able to think outside the box, especially when it comes to writing copy. o Students need to understand how to use both passive and active voice while writing. o They might want to take an acting class, theater class or at least a speech or elocution class. Maybe voice lessons?
After soft skills were reviewed, the meeting turned to the specific proposed degree plan. Dan and John Freyermuth provided a summary of some of the courses and asked for feedback concerning the order of classes and what the degree plan looks like in draft stage. Are there any gaps or questions?
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Degree Plan Comments: The current degree plan might lack focus and need to be refined according to Kelly Tate. o He wanted to know what the potential for our graduates to find employment. Scott from Fox said there is a lack of lighting knowledge, mainly in 3 -point lighting. We may want to consider creating two separate degree tracks, dividing the degree between the technical and creative aspects of audio, radio and video? o Radio is shrinking and potential grads need to be able to wear multiple hats and deal with different customers and clients.
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Writing creatively for broadcasts cannot be specifically for products it can also be for programming. The meeting adjourned at 1:00pm. Respectfully submitted, Daniel Walzer and John Freyermuth