Elements and Performance Criteria

Relevant production requirements include:

organisational policies and procedures

resources

budget

production schedules

timelines/deadlines

purpose and context of the product

markets

Equipment may include:

microphones

mixers

mixing console/desk - analogue, digital, digitally controlled analogue systems

speakers

monitors

amplifiers

effects units

musical instruments

MIDI

computer music devices/systems

CD player/burner

tape machine

turntables

sequencer

sampler/synthesiser

cassette tape

DAT

mini disc

reel to reel hard disc recorder

DVD

sound editing software including Protools, Fairlight

Relevant personnel may include:

clients

producers

directors

sound designers

sound editors

sound mixers

performers

other technical staff

other specialist staff

Relevant sound components may include:

dialogue

ADR (additional dialogue recording)

music

literal sound effects

sound samples

synthesised sound

atmospheric sound

ambient sound

sound FX (effects)

foley

Relevant presentation materials may include:

dubbing charts

cue sheets

scripts

storyboards

scores

oral descriptions

digital formats

recordings on appropriate formats

Types of productions may include:

feature films and videos

short films and videos

documentaries

drama programs

variety programs

news and current affairs

commercials/advertisements

talkback programs

live events and performances

music programs

interactive games/movies/reference

Underpinning knowledge and skills

Assessment must include evidence of essential knowledge of, and skills in, the following areas:

demonstrated originality and innovative approaches in the use and organisation of sound elements
ability to locate and use resources to broaden and enhance creative experience
listening critically to continuously evaluate and adjust the sound design
knowledge of sound terminology
understanding of special effects
knowledge of functions/operations of sound mixing consoles
knowledge of acoustic principles
connecting sound equipment
knowledge of and ability to operate signal processing and effects devices
knowledge of varied characteristics of sound in a range of environments
ability to balance tone colour by equalisation
manipulating input signals and gain structure using monitoring and metering functions, equalisers, filters, compressors/ expanders, faders and auxiliaries
knowledge of relevant organisational and or legislative OHS requirements, in particular safe noise levels
microphones, consoles, signal flow and acoustics appropriate to the project
knowledge of computer technologies relevant to sound production
ability to communicate effectively with others

Linkages to other units

This unit has linkages to the following units and combined training delivery and/or assessment is recommended:

CUSSOU22A Implement sound design
CUSSOU15A Create a final sound balance

Critical aspects of evidence

The following evidence is critical to the judgement of competence in this unit:

innovative and inventive organisation of sound elements
critical listening and aural discrimination
knowledge of sound terminology
principles and techniques of sound
the capacity to communicate effectively with clients and production personnel

Method and context of assessment
Assessment may take place on the job, off the job or a mix of both of these. Off the job assessment must be undertaken in a simulated workplace environment.

Assessment methods must include direct assessment of creative work in a sound design context. Direct observation may need to occur on more than one occasion to establish consistency of performance. Methods to assess the application of essential underpinning knowledge may include:

practical demonstration
work samples or simulated workplace activities
process diary
oral questioning/interview
projects/reports/logbooks
third party reports and authenticated prior achievements
portfolios or other documentation which demonstrate the processes used in realising creative concept
These methods should assist the assessor to evaluate the creative process followed by the candidate in generating, assessing and realising creative ideas.

Resource requirements
Assessment requires access to a range of up to date equipment listed in the range of variables statement.

Communicating ideas and information
(3)

Collecting analysing and organising information
(3)

Planning and organising activities
(3)

Working with others and in teams
(3)

Using mathematical ideas and techniques
(2)

Solving problems
(3)

Using technology
(3)