Elements and Performance Criteria

Relevant production requirements may include:

organisational policies and procedures

resources

budget

production schedules

timelines/deadlines

organisational and legislative OHS requirements

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 production personnel may include:

sound designers

producers

directors

artists

sound editors

sound mixers

program managers

broadcasters

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

scores

scripts

storyboards

oral descriptions

digital formats

recordings on appropriate formats

Types of productions for which sound design is being produced 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:

listening critically to continuously evaluate and adjust the sound production
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
knowledge of types of signal distortions that occur in amplifiers
amplifying music to suit varying live environment conditions
knowledge of electrical theory as it applies to sound e.g. the nature of sound waves
microphones, consoles, signal flow and acoustics appropriate to the project
reading and interpreting sound documentation and plans
identifying typical faults that may occur in audio production environments
applying simple maintenance to a range of audio systems
knowledge of computer technologies relevant to sound production
critical listening and aural discrimination
ability to communicate effectively with others to achieve best production outcomes
directing and monitoring the work of others

Linkages to other units

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

CUSSOU09A Mix sound sources
CUSSOU04A Record sound
CUSSOU11A Operate a sound mixing console
CUSSOU24A Edit sound using computerised digital equipment/systems
CUSSOU07A Edit sound using analogue systems
CUSSOU21A Direct a final audio master

Critical aspects of evidence

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

knowledge and application of relevant local OHS legislation
innovative and inventive use in organising sound elements
critical listening and aural discrimination
knowledge of sound terminology
knowledge of a range of sound equipment
principles and techniques of sound
using effective communication techniques

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.

It is recommended that assessment methods should include observation of a practical demonstration. 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 must support this and may include:

practical demonstration
work samples or simulated workplace activities
oral questioning/interview
projects/reports/logbooks
third party reports and authenticated prior achievements
portfolios of evidence

It is strongly recommended that the assessment process incorporates these evidence gathering methods:

review of portfolios of evidence including tapes/recordings and detailed notes that demonstrate the processes used by the assessee to manage production through all stages of the process
targeted questions aimed at evaluating the processes used in managing the production through all stages of the process
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)