CUASOU305
Compile audio material for broadcast


Application

This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to prepare, record and edit short audio segments within tight deadlines.

It applies to individuals responsible for setting up equipment and recording audio material. The work is usually assignment-based and individuals usually receive clear instructions about production requirements.

No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication


Elements and Performance Criteria

ELEMENT

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1. Prepare to record audio material

1.1 Confirm production requirements and deadlines with relevant personnel

1.2 Research topics to frame appropriate interview questions

1.3 Prepare questions that elicit information relevant to interview purpose and rehearse questions as required

1.4 Check portable audio recording equipment and accessories are fully functional and report equipment faults to relevant personnel

1.5 Check charged batteries are sufficient to meet recording needs

2. Record audio material on location

2.1 Select and position microphone to achieve optimum audio quality, taking into account hazards, background noise and weather conditions at location

2.2 Conduct sound and level checks to ensure audio recording equipment is fully functional and recording at optimum levels

2.3 Record an identification according to enterprise procedures

2.4 Record audio material according to production requirements

2.5 Record ambient sound as bridging material for the editing process, if required

2.6 Dismantle audio recording equipment and check all equipment is accounted for before leaving location

3. Edit audio material

3.1 Listen to recorded audio and identify edit positions to produce required audio segment

3.2 Transfer audio material to computer or software

3.3 Use software functions to edit audio material in accordance with production requirements and timelines

3.4 Listen to edited material to evaluate sound quality and content and to identify problems

3.5 Use editing software to solve identified problems, and seek advice if required

3.6 Save final edit in appropriate file format

3.7 Adopt safe ergonomic practices when using screens and keyboards for long periods of time

4. Submit edited material for broadcast

4.1 Leave worksite in original or improved condition for use by colleagues

4.2 Complete documentation and submit edited material for approval to relevant personnel by agreed deadline

4.3 Make final adjustments in response to feedback from relevant personnel

4.4 Archive edited material in accordance with enterprise procedures

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

compile a range of short audio sequences that meet production requirements and deadlines

prepare questions appropriate to the interview purpose

operate basic audio recording equipment and use microphones in non-studio locations to record optimal quality sound

use basic editing software proficiently to refine audio segments

make judgements regarding the sound quality and content of recorded segments

document and archive audio sequences in accordance with enterprise procedures.

Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided at least once.


Evidence of Knowledge

To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:

outline typical challenges that arise when compiling audio for broadcast and how to handle these

describe microphone techniques for:

recording audio in variable weather conditions

minimising the effect of background location noise while recording audio

identify technical characteristics of commonly used microphones

describe a range of digital formats compatible with various editing processes and recording equipment

outline work health and safety requirements for working with sound.


Assessment Conditions

Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to:

audio recording equipment and accessories

interaction with otehrs

sound editing software and equipment

non-studio locations that include interior and exterior, and variable weather conditions.

Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.


Foundation Skills

This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.

Skill

Performance

Criteria

Description

Reading

1.2, 1.3

Interprets textual information to determine job context and requirements

Writing

1.3, 4.2

Composes and edits questions using appropriate vocabulary and structure for audience and purpose

Uses clear and specific language to complete workplace documentation

Oral Communication

1.1, 4.3

Discusses requirements with others

Uses listening and questioning techniques to elicit information and confirm understanding

Navigate the world of work

2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 3.3, 3.7, 4.4

Follows studio practices and procedures associated with recording and editing audio material

Understands and complies with relevant legislative requirements

Interact with others

1.1, 4.3

Follows accepted communication methods and practices to discuss audio material requirements, report equipment faults and seek assistance

Get the work done

1.1-1.5, 2.1, 2.2, 2.4-2.6, 3.1-3.6, 4.3

Takes responsibility for planning and organising own workload, sequencing tasks, selecting equipment and managing processes

Identifies problems with audio quality, implements logical solutions and refines final product with input from others

Uses digital systems and tools to record and edit audio segments to meet production requirements


Sectors

Media and Entertainment Production – Audio/Sound