Today’s learners live in a complex world of multimedia, both in and out of the classroom: streaming video, podcasts, and social media are constant fixtures of everyday life. But they are more than passive consumers. Digital video content has not only become the default way that learners engage with ideas, but the visual language of digital media can also be used to communicate concepts in ways that writing and oral lectures simply cannot. By leveraging the power of technology and visual storytelling, the health sciences at Pitt are enhancing health sciences education by combining digital media with didactic classroom sessions. The hub for this educational content production is the new Health Sciences Media Studios, a collaboration between HSLS and Health Sciences IT (HS IT), opening later this month.
The main state-of-the-art Media Production Studio will feature professional cameras, microphones, a studio lighting grid, green screens, and broadcast technology in a flexible “black box” studio. Two additional semi-autonomous studios will enable anyone in the Pitt health sciences community to record high-quality lectures, podcasts, or livestreams easily and professionally. Our editing and control suite will feature powerful computer workstations for cutting, compositing, color grading, and motion graphics, with one workstation dedicated for guest users to edit their own projects. With the guidance of our team of media professionals, the health sciences at Pitt will be able to produce content in a wide variety of formats and for any digital platform.
Beyond the classroom, the Health Sciences Media Studios space and staff have the flexibility and expertise to produce media projects of any size and scope, from promotional content and documentaries to live event capture and on-location productions. Our team is always available to consult with you on your content ideas; submit an HS IT help ticket or visit our website to get started. We are excited to welcome faculty, staff, and students this fall.
~Chad Brown, HS IT