Week 12 of the syllabus has been updated to reflect key details of the news simulation assignment:
- ASSIGNMENT: Multimedia material gathered for Toiltown.com live coverage project: Each student gathers minimum of six raw multimedia clips (video or audio/stills) from his/her CD using smartphone, and asking: “How will the economy affect your holiday plans?” as well as related questions, two survey questions and biodata. Best two clips pitched during class session, and top clip then produced into 60 second multimedia package on ToilTown.com site. DEADLINE: 1) Wed 11:59 p.m. – Bulleted list of six or more clips (including subject name, age, borough and sentence on editorial and technical strength of interview material). List should highlight the top two clips. 2) Start of class Week 13 – All raw multimedia material and data from interviews for final in-class production. Complete project details here.
IMPORTANT — Please note:
- For your multimedia clips you have a choice of gathering video or audio and stills. Tight headshots are required on all visuals.
- You are required to use a smartphone to gather this material (do not “upgrade” to higher end video cameras and audio recorders). A key point of the assignment is to see that you can create usable quality newsgathering with your smartphone. NOTE: Those students who do not have smartphones can check out Flipcams to gather video. I’ll post separately on the transcoder necessary to convert the footage for FinalCut editing.
- Use a tripod equivalent – the equipment room has many “pistol grip” smartphone holders that can be used to stabilize your shots, especially if you use them in conjunction with a tripod.
- Be prepared to ask multiple questions – the main interview question, the two survey questions, the biodata questions. Be sure to print out a list of those questions and carry it with you on your interviews. Entries missing material may not be usable in any form on the site.
- Interviewees must be New York City residents 18 or over and from your CD.
- All production takes place in the classroom on Thursday. Do not produce material ahead of time.
Questions? Comments?