Module Descriptors
VIRTUAL PRODUCTION
FILM70380
Key Facts
Digital, Technology, Innovation and Business
Level 7
20 credits
Contact
Leader: Benjamin Beard
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 42
Independent Study Hours: 158
Total Learning Hours: 200
Pattern of Delivery
  • Occurrence A, Stoke Campus, PG Semester 1
Sites
  • Stoke Campus
Assessment
  • Practical - Practical Project 2 minutes weighted at 50%
  • Practical - Presentation 6 minutes weighted at 50%
Module Details
Learning Outcomes
1. Evaluate virtual production processes and the technological factors that affect implementation. Enquiry
2. Synthesise and employ appropriate decision-making methods and solutions in complex situations. Analysis
3. Employ a practical understanding of virtual production techniques. Application
4. Critically evaluate complex technological and creative issues around virtual production approaches Problem Solving
Additional Assessment Details
1. Practical Project {LO2, 3]
The form of the moving image portfolio is negotiated with the staff team and can comprise a single piece of work or a collection of pieces demonstrating established virtual production techniques. The individual can collaborate but must take on a key Head of Department role in the production, this should be clearly documented in terms of contribution. If a key role is taken this should be reflected upon in the presentation. Central to this module is the acquirement of new skills and understanding of workflows that support virtual production.

2. Presentation [LO1, 2] The presentation will focus on the choices made in deploying virtual production and a consideration of the effectiveness of the approach when filmmaking. The student should reflect in their knowledge and understanding of the use of Virtual Production within creative work and explore their knowledge acquisition and comprehension of the uses of Virtual Production.


All individually assessed
Indicative Content
This module introduces the approaches inherent to virtual production filmmaking techniques.

You will engage in skills acquisition and consideration of the reasons and implications around using virtual production approaches and techniques. You will work to apply skills in production including preproduction, camera, lighting, performance, edit and sound skills in relation to the opportunities offered within virtual production and build an understanding of all production roles in relation to virtual production practices. These techniques will be applied to practical film production work and a presentation that is informed by your understanding of the technology of virtual production.

You will develop the skills to justify the chosen techniques, technology and practice based on a consideration of your approaches and practical work.
Web Descriptor
Filmmaking is a constantly evolving process; in this module you will investigate and build your understanding of virtual production. You will develop or experiment with practical techniques in the creation of a film making portfolio based around the potential use of virtual production. Identifying not only the skills needed for utilising the opportunities of virtual production but also the rationale of its deployment is central to this exciting look and the direction of production and post-production.
Learning Strategies
This module will develop your understanding of virtual production in relation to filmmaking practice through engaging with research and practical exercises around the field. Problem-based learning will be used to contextualise the development of solutions using the skills and techniques developed through the module.

Workshops will introduce concepts and themes to build your knowledge and understanding of the subject and enable you to develop your applied skills across a range of production tasks with relevant production tools. Technical Instruction will build your competence in the setup and operation of a range of production equipment and post-production tools.

Seminars and discussions will expand your awareness and understanding of the implications and guiding factors around virtual production filmmaking practice.
Reference Texts
Chapman, J, Glancy, M and Harper, S (2007). The New Film History: Sources, Methods, Approaches. London: Palgrave Macmillan.

Frank L. (2022) Real-Time Video Content for Virtual Production & Live Entertainment: A Learning Roadmap for an Evolving Practice

Harwood, T. G. and Grussi, B. (2021) Pioneers in Machinima: The Grassroots of Virtual Production (Series in Critical Media Studies)

McDonald, Paul and Wasko, Janet (2007) The Contemporary Hollywood Film Industry. London: Wiley-Blackwell.

Sawicki M and Moody J. (2020) Filming the Fantastic with Virtual Technology: Filmmaking on the Digital Backlot

Tricart C. (2017) Virtual Reality Filmmaking: Techniques & Best Practices for VR Filmmakers
Module Resources
Portable video and audio recording equipment
Specialist Media Labs, Post-Production Editing, Sound Mixing, Colour Grading
Library Books and Journals
LinkedIn Learning
Academic Study Skills Tutors
Special Admissions Requirements
None