The Development of Digital filmmaking Curriculum for Improving Graduate Student’s Skills for International Film Industry

Abstract

          The objectives of this research were: 1) to explore information on designing digital film courses content, 2) to develop a digital film curriculum with a focus on developing graduates into international film industries. Researchers collected data from documents, related researches and textbooks to design a course outline. In-depth interviews and focus group for interviews with academic and professional experts in related field were also used as research tools. The selection criteria for experts was developed from cinematic or mass communication expertise which included at least 7 years of experience. All 9 selected experts have previously received national or international awards for their notable works. The group consisted of a mass communication academic officer, a film academic officer, a film critic, two film distribution company directors, two film directors, a cinematographer and an entrepreneur of post-production company.
          The results revealed that the digital film courses should indicated some specific characteristics; focus on quality, consist of fewer credits and subjects; take shorter study period, create professionalism. The graduates suggest to; be ethical, have multi-skill or hybrid skill but still have a strong focus on one specific area or role, able to apply art of storytelling, be activist, use cross-disciplinary integration, improve their English and Chinese language skills as a key for international career. The digital film curriculum was designed into two groups; the first was film studies and film business management and the second was film production and visual effects. Both groups aim career as film workers, for example; films distributors or crews in film production. The graduates able to run their own small business (SME) by apply the skills of entrepreneur. Learning creating innovation would be a great way to promote their startups business. The curriculum also focus on developing learner potential of screenplay writing, creative thinking, producing film projects, appreciating value of art and using language effectively. The graduates must be good attitude workers. Another critical point was emphasizing on storytelling skills for the reason that it leads to the wide range of narration, not only in film media.