MUT-10006 - Audio Fundamentals
Coordinator: Simeon Soden Tel: +44 1782 7 33395
Lecture Time: See Timetable...
Level: Level 4
Credits: 15
Study Hours: 150
School Office: 01782 733147

Programme/Approved Electives for 2021/22

None

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Yes

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2021/22

How does 'sound' work? What does it do to us? How do we handle it with the help of modern technologies? 'Audio Fundamentals' answers these fascinating questions establishing a theoretical basis on elements of acoustics, electro-acoustics, musical-acoustics and analog audio, all important topics that underpin creative applications of audio technologies in the recording and media industries.
The module covers: Elements of Acoustics. Auditory perception. Analog audio and signal path. Frequency spectrum of musical and non-musical sounds. Microphones. Loudspeakers. Practical tasks in the studios to experiment with the above topics.
Lectures feature multi-media aids and include sound examples and demonstrations on hardware and software. You can study, revise and prepare yourself for the end-of-module assessed test using a wealth of learning resources: the Keele Learning Environment, the Music Technology pool room / studios, the Library and at home. Formative tests are available throughout the semester to test your preparation for the final test.

Aims
To establish a common theoretical base on elements of acoustics, electro-acoustics and digital audio for future practical modules that will focus on the creative application of audio technologies


Intended Learning Outcomes

demonstrate knowledge and recollection of basic core concepts, rules and physical measurements of acoustic phenomena and their representation in the digital domain; will be achieved by assessments: 01
comprehend and interpret basic core concepts, rules and physical measurements of acoustic phenomena and their representation in the digital domain, and apply methods and theories learnt in the module.
will be achieved by assessments: 01

Study hours

18 hours of lectures.
6 hours of tutorials/seminars.
6 hours of engagement in lab-experiments.
40 hours of reflection, revision and consolidation of lecture content, research through bibliographical and computer mediated sources through individual or group study work.
35 hours of preparation and completion of formative assessment.
45 hours of preparation and completion of summative assessment (interaction with formative test, remedial study, clarification during surgery if necessary, preparation for final summative test).

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment

1: Multiple Choice Questions - Knowledge weighted 100%
Take-away test.
Take-away test delivered through the KLE, featuring a combination of multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, true/false questions, numerical questions, ranking questions, problem-solving questions and brief reports on lab-experiments to be carried out during the take-away period (usually 36 hours) .