This is a general outline for the structure of the course but the structure may be adjusted to suite the interests and ambitions of a particular cohort of students. The Art of Editing Film and video is spread out over ten sessions (or ten evenings). The sessions break down into teaching activities, discussions and practical exercises. Each session introduces a new subject matter which is then presented with support material and at the end of the teaching students are encouraged to discuss the subject with the group. The focus on discussion builds both understanding of narrative language and clarifies any terminologies or technical difficulties.
The sessions are divided into three parts, in the first phase we deconstruct both the visual and auditory elements of film. The teaching presents key film language, including narrative, style, and audio conventions. In the second phase of the course we look at case studies that consider and apply these conventions through the edit process. In the final phase of the course students aim to create their own realities equipped with the knowledge of film convention and some technical know how.
Creating your own realities is the final conclusion of the course. Through out the course you are encouraged and given advise on making a very short film or bring material you have shot to edit into a sequence. Confidence rises because at this point students are equipped with the knowledge and references to key film language material to edit and construct their own work.
