Application
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to interpret audio production requirements, participate in technical run-throughs and operate professional audio equipment during live performances in the screen, media, entertainment and events industries.
At this level, individuals are required to use some discretion and judgement and operate under broad supervision within an established framework of plans and procedures.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance Criteria Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Participate in technical or creative run-throughs | 1.1 Determine audio requirements in consultation with relevant personnel and with reference to production documentation 1.2 Ensure that equipment is positioned and ready for operation according to production requirements 1.3 Plot and run through cues on direction from relevant personnel and according to equipment, sequencing, timing and speed requirements 1.4 Implement appropriate changes to audio operations and document them according to organisational procedures 1.5 Communicate appropriate technical information to performers and presenters |
2. Prepare for audio operations | 2.1 Power up equipment at the appropriate time and check that it is working correctly 2.2 Complete audio check and implement and document adjustments according to organisational procedures 2.3 Promptly identify, rectify or refer equipment problems to relevant personnel as required |
3. Operate professional audio equipment | 3.1 Execute all audio cues according to running sheets or directions from colleagues 3.2 Promptly identify changes required during performances and modify cues as required to cater for unexpected events and minimise negative impact on performances 3.3 Operate console to produce the required technical level and tonal balances 3.4 Adjust equalisation for required tonal balance 3.5 Balance signal levels 3.6 Maintain overall audio level in line with the requirements of the environment 3.7 Play back audio effects at the required level through the appropriate speakers 3.8 Monitor equipment for correct operation throughout performances and resolve problems as required |
4. Complete post-performance procedures | 4.1 Safely power down equipment at the appropriate time according to manufacturer instructions and organisational procedures 4.2 Identify and complete necessary equipment adjustments, including maintenance and re-setting as required in preparation for next performance 4.3 Update documentation as required and process according to organisational procedures 4.4 Evaluate effectiveness of audio operations with relevant personnel and note areas for future improvement |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
operate professional audio equipment to meet production requirements on at least two occasions
follow safety procedures when operating audio equipment
work collaboratively during productions.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided for each of the above points at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements the individual must:
describe features, formats and purpose of audio production documentation
describe features of, and operating procedures for, industry-standard audio mixing consoles, amplifiers, speakers and equalisers
describe the characteristics of sound in a range of environments
explain audio effects and provide examples of when to use them
describe techniques for amplifying music to suit varying live environment conditions
describe typical faults and problems that occur in a live audio environment, and provide examples of how to address them
provide examples of health and safety issues relevant to working with electricity and noise.
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 professional audio equipment used for live productions or events.
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 | 1.1, 3.1, 4.1 | Obtains information from written sources |
Writing | 1.4, 2.2, 4.3, 4.4 | Updates documentation in relation to audio operations Documents outcomes of evaluations |
Oral communication | 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 2.3, 3.1, 3.8, 4.4 | Obtains information by listening and questioning Uses clear language to contribute information and express requirements Understands what to communicate, with whom and how in routine work situations |
Numeracy | 1.3 | Performs calculations when plotting cues |
Navigate the world of work | 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4 | Identifies and follows procedures and expectations associated with own role Understands the purpose of own role and associated responsibilities, and how they contribute to the work of others in the immediate work context Demonstrates a commitment to improving own work performance through contributing to evaluations of audio operations |
Interact with others | 1.1, 1.3, 1.5, 2.3, 3.1, 4.4 | Works collaboratively to identify and complete task requirements Follows accepted communication practices and protocols |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 3.8, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 | Completes own tasks within required timeframes and in a logical sequence Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems in familiar work contexts Understands when to take responsibility and when to notify others Operates the full range of features of professional audio equipment Uses standard word processing and spreadsheet applications to update production documentation |
Sectors
Media and entertainment production - audio/sound