Spring Break
Students gain experience in non-traditional class
Lakeisha Goodman
Issue date: 10/21/08 Section: Features
| |
|
Students in this class are expected to already know how to properly handle equipment in the studio and are now presented with the challenge of getting their creativity flowing.
For this, communication professor Michael Dermody knew just what to do.
The first day of class, Dermody made it clear that this was not going to be a regular, run-of-the-mill class. Dermody assigned different positions for students to assume in the studio and reviewed the purpose for each position, eventually explaining that over the course of the semester, everyone would be working on a television show.
While the subject matter of the program was left entirely up to the students, each position needed to be efficiently filled in order for the show to be a success. Positions ranged from camera operators to floor managers to segment producers.
To further stress the importance of teamwork among students, Dermody signed the class up for a day-long challenge course. Throughout the day the students were presented with mentally and physically challenging obstacles that could only be solved if students worked together and communicated effectively. One student in the class, Caroline Bradshaw, said that one of the main things she enjoyed was getting to know her classmates during the challenge course.
Student Bronson Williams, who is currently enrolled in the class, was impressed with the style of the non-traditional class.
"We definitely get hands-on experience, which is better than just sitting and reading out of a book," said Bronson.
Bronson, who plans to eventually own his own studio, enjoys the fact that he can learn firsthand about various positions within the media production field, which he believes will assist him in the future.
The show created by the students, titled "Art's Thread," will be centered on an individual's perception of art. It will run for approximately eight episodes, lasting around 10 minutes a piece.
Under the guidance and advice of Dermody, it will be up to the students to decorate the set, arrange lighting, book and interview guests, obtain footage, design graphics and more.
Upon the successful finish, each episode will be posted on a section of YouTube that ECU has purchased, located at youtube.com/ecu.
Senior and communication major, Rachel Anderson, is excited about the airing of the show on the popular Web site.
"It will bring beneficial qualities to my resume," said Anderson, who plans to pursue a career in media production.
Along with a final grade, the students of COMM 3242 can expect to gain experience and creativity that can assist in future endeavors.
This writer can be contacted at features@theeastcarolinian.com.
Be the first to comment on this story