Please note! Course description is confirmed for two academic years, which means that in general, e.g. Learning outcomes, assessment methods and key content stays unchanged. However, via course syllabus, it is possible to specify or change the course execution in each realization of the course, such as how the contact sessions are organized, assessment methods weighted or materials used.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the conclusion of the course student will

  • Recall and identify key principles and terminology in production design.
  • Apply new terminology used in advanced production design concepts.
  • Explain the relationship between various elements in production design in film production, such as producing, cinematography, and costume design in long feature films.
  • Articulate the importance of sustainability in film-making processes, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of its impact on production design choices and overall environmental responsibility.
  • Apply advanced production design techniques to solve complex creative or technical challenges.
  • Analyse and deconstruct existing production designs to understand the choices made and their impact on the overall aesthetic.
  • Critically evaluate the effectiveness of various artistic and technical production design practices in achieving their intended purposes and assess their applicability in long film productions.
  • Execute and develop original and innovative production design methods and concepts for diverse contexts and genres.

Credits: 6

Schedule: 24.02.2025 - 14.03.2025

Teacher in charge (valid for whole curriculum period):

Teacher in charge (applies in this implementation): Kaisa Mäkinen

Contact information for the course (applies in this implementation):

CEFR level (valid for whole curriculum period):

Language of instruction and studies (applies in this implementation):

Teaching language: English. Languages of study attainment: English

CONTENT, ASSESSMENT AND WORKLOAD

Content
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    The content of the course, organized every other year, is curated to reflect cutting-edge developments, ensuring that participants receive the most current and relevant knowledge in the field of production design while also deepening the practical skills needed.

     Students will explore the Art of Production Design in Film and Television, delving into up-to-date research and working methods in design. The course aims to help students understand the interconnected aspects of production design, fostering a holistic comprehension of how various elements collaborate in the film industry.

           Emphasis is placed on applying knowledge to practical situations, challenging students to utilize their understanding in solving complex problems. Additionally, the course promotes critical thinking and analysis, urging students to delve beyond surface-level understanding and analyze existing designs, grasping the reasoning behind creative choices. Both artistic and technical aspects are covered, addressing the essentials in the multifaceted field of production design.

          Furthermore, the course explores material choices and their relationship to sustainability in production design processes.

Assessment Methods and Criteria
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    Participation:

            Mandatory Attendance on the first day

            Active Participation: Regular participation in classdiscussions, group activities, and practical sessions

    Skill Development:

    Observable improvement in practical skills related to production design, as demonstrated through assignments, projects, or practical exercises

     Critical Thinking:

    The ability to engage in critical analysis and independent thinking, as evidenced in class discussions, assignments, and assessments.

     Adherence to Guidelines:

    Adherence to assignment guidelines, deadlines, and any specific criteria outlined for assessments.

Workload
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    Lectures, hands-on teaching, group discussions, presentations, writing assignments, peer learning, independent and group work and feedback. The course requires attendance in contact sessions including group and independent work.

    Registration for courses is confirmed by attending the first class of the course. Students who drop out of the course without good reason will fail the course.

     

    At least 80% participation in face-to-face teaching is mandatory to complete the course. If, due to absences, the student does not achieve the learning outcomes defined in the course description, the remaining 20% may have to be compensated as determined by the responsible teachers of

    the course. All absences must be reported to the teachers in charge. The responsible teachers of the course will specify the necessary compensating assignments.

     

    Lectures 10h.

    Contact teaching and feedback 50h.

    Student’s own and group work 48h.

    Student’s own processing 12h. 

     

     

DETAILS

Study Material
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    Handouts will be provided on the course.

Substitutes for Courses
Prerequisites
SDG: Sustainable Development Goals

    3 Good Health and Well-being

    11 Sustainable Cities and Communities

    12 Responsible Production and Consumption

    13 Climate Action

FURTHER INFORMATION

Further Information
  • valid for whole curriculum period:

    Teaching Language: English

    Teaching Period: 2024-2025 No teaching
    2025-2026 Spring IV

    Registration:

    The course is intended exclusively for Production Design MA students, or equivalent knowledge and skills (or on a separate application in connection with Sisu registration at discretion).

    Minimum number of participants    3

    Maximum number of participants 14

     

    Registration for courses Sisu. Priority order to courses is according to the order of priority decided by the Academic committee for School of Arts, Design and Architecture, https//www.aalto.fi/en/services/registering-to-courses-and-the-order-of-priority-at-aalto-arts