Audio Visual Preservation (CUMC90020)

This subject will provide students with an introduction to the identification and preservation of the most common audio visual recording formats: motion picture film, magnetic media, audio recording technologies, and video; and provide an overview of the care of collections comprising audio visual material and formats. The subject examines the history of each of these formats, the technological base for the format, and the deterioration mechanisms that impact on the format.

From this foundation, the subject will consider the handling of audiovisual collections including identification, occupational health and safety, condition reporting, cleaning and repair, duplication, preparation for long term storage, storage, and disaster risks and responses. The balancing of competing stakeholder demands for access and preservation will be examined, as will the ethical implications of the various approaches to what is often unique cultural material.

This subject will be taught as an intensive with some material being available online and the opportunity for industry placement working in the student’s area of interest.

During the pre-teaching period students are expected to complete the course readings, review the lectures and any other course preparation as outlined on the LMS. The LMS will become available at the commencement of the pre-teaching dates.