Introduction to Screen Studies (SCRN10001)

Undergraduate level 1Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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This subject provides students with a comprehensive introduction to the study of film language and theory. It is organised around these two separate but related areas. The film language component covers two interrelated topics that are essential for an understanding of the cinema: film aesthetics and film history. The subject begins with the early cinema and progresses through to an analysis of contemporary screen cultures. Key topics of narrative, editing, sound, mise-en-scene and cinematography are studied both in relation to contemporary cinema and within their historical contexts. The film theory module introduces key theories including: narrative and formalist theory, auteurism and genre, feminist film theory and the influence of psychoanalysis, new screen media theory and contemporary research methodologies, all of which offer insight into the discipline of Screen Studies.

Intended learning outcomes

On successful completion of this subject, students should have:

  • An understanding of the important role that film and screen media have performed for over a century
  • An understanding of the fundamental aspects of film form, including key techniques of film style and narration
  • The ability to use critical and analytical skills to deconstruct and analyse film aesthetics
  • A comprehension of key concepts in the history of cinema and the significance of social, national, stylistic and aesthetic movements that inform and explicate that history
  • Consolidated knowledge of approaches to audio-visual literacy and an understanding of interdisciplinary methodologies that may be applied to evaluate screen media
  • The ability to communicate effectively in a variety of oral and written formats and utilise research practices specific to Screen Studies that are applied with intellectual honesty and a respect for ethical values.

Generic skills

At the completion of this subject, students should gain the following generic skills:

  • Be skilled in critical thinking and analysis
  • Possess effective written communication skills
  • Have an understanding of social, ethical and cultural context.

Last updated: 9 April 2025