MMP301 Storytelling, Representation and Rhetoric
The course is obligatory to students in the Master of Media Practices program, in their first semester of study.
In this course, questions of representation, storytelling and rhetoric will be discussed as it relates to media production. The course will have an emphasis on moving images and audiovisual forms, but also discuss other means of expression and communication, such as written discourse, still images, and PR and design. Various genres and examples will be given attention, but the main thrust will be on documentary and other fact-based media forms of communication.
The students will learn to ask questions of representation: who are represented, how are they represented, and what are the responsibilities and possibilities of representing others? In terms of storytelling, the students will learn not only to see what is being told, but also how it is being told. They will be able to identify key elements in linear and nonlinear stories using narrative analysis and other relevant theoretical tools. The students will also learn about rhetoric as a field of study and as a tool; rhetoric not merely being the study of persuasion, but of how to communicate, engage an audience, and direct attention through stylistic means etc. The course will give an awareness of how questions of representation, storytelling and rhetoric are intertwined. Through examples, discussion and practical excersises, the students will be trained in seeing both creative possibilites and ethical responsibilities in the representation of others, the telling of stories, and the use of rhetorical effects.
Students will contribute to the other students´ learning processes by sharing their knowledge, skills and experience from their own specialization with the students from the other disciplines. Much of the teaching will consist of giving introduction to theories, sharing examples, and discussion among the students. In the second part of the course, students will work in groups with a media production, from research and concept development, to a finished product. In this production, the students will take their original role, whether it is as a designer, filmmaker, animator, journalist, or public relations communication specialist.
In accordance with the National Qualifications Framework the student will achieve the following learning outcomes after completing the course:
The student has knowledge of
- theories of representation
- narrative analysis and other related theoretical and methodological frameworks for the study of storytelling
- dramaturgical and narrative techniques relevant for their field
- theories on rhetoric, and how images, language and media are uavoidably rhetorical
- how key elements in the study of representation, storytelling and rhetoric are interrelated, and how this relates to their own role as media practicioners
The students
- take part in shorter media productions of high quality within her/his field of specialization, and use concepts and techniques in representation, storytelling and rhetoric in their own work
- analyze and relate critically to various media in terms of how the they represent, narrate and rhetorically address their audience
- analyze existing theories, methods and interpretations in storytelling and work independently with practical and theoretical issues in her/his field
The students
- learn about theoretical and methodical issues regarding representation, storytelling and rhetoric, through discussions and collaboration, as well as teaching others and being taught by others.
The course material is presented through lectures, seminars and group work. Students will work practically with the subject matter, both individually and in groups. Parts of the course can be implemented as e-learning modules and screen-based teaching and guidance.
The students will make a short media production and write an essay where they reflect on the final product in light of the theoretical perspectives discussed in the course.
The student has to participate in lectures and seminars and complete all assignments.
Students complete a production in groups in the last half of the semester.
Examination results are executed in accordance with the Directive for Admission, Studies and Examination at Volda University College, chapter 5.
| Assessment Form | Grouping | Duration | Grading scale | Proportion | Comment | Support Materials | Scope |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mappeeksamen | Individuell | 1 semester | A-F, der A er best og E er siste ståkarakter | The report should be 3000 – 5000 words |
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