Classes

SCAT offers video production classes and workshops for a modest tuition on an ongoing basis. Classes are open to all Equipment and Organization Members. Some classes and workshops are open to members of other access centers or the public at large. Class schedules are listed in every newsletter, on the community bulletin board, and are posted on SCAT's web site. Members wishing to take classes must pre-register on a first-come, first-served basis.

The basic production classes include Basic Portable Equipment and Basic Editing, which lead to Community Producer certification, and Basic Studio Production which leads to Studio Producer certification. Community Producer certification requires class attendace and submission for cablecasting of a certification tape. Basic Studio Producer certification requires class attendance and experience crewing on two studio productions. 

Tuition reductions or waivers may be available based on financial need at the discretion of the Executive Director. Full refunds for classes are available if cancellation is made at least 24 hours in advance of the first class of the series. 

Certification Requirements

Equipment and Organization members must go through a certification process and be deemed “certified” in order to use each type of equipment. Members who have been inactive for a time may need to renew their certifications. Some equipment may have special prerequisites to ensure proper use.

• Community Producer: to use camcorders, microphones, portable light kits, and accessories, and the Edit Suites: Attend Basic Portable Equipment and Basic Editing classes and produce a certification tape. Pre-requisite: Orientation
• Audio Technician: to use the portable audio mixers: Attend and complete the Audio Technician class. Pre-requisite: Community Producer
• Studio Production Certification: to work as crew in the studio and to reserve the studio and direct studio productions: Attend the Studio Production Class and volunteer on two studio shoots. Pre-requisite: Orientation
• Field Certified: to use SCAT’s cameras, tripods, microphones, light kits, and accessories: Test Out with SCAT Staff. Pre-requisite: Orientation
• Post Certified: to edit in the SCAT Edit Suites: Test Out with SCAT Staff. Pre-requisite: Orientation
• Studio Certified: to reserve the studio and direct studio productions: test out with SCAT staff and receive some training in the particulars of the SCAT studio.

"Testing Out" in Lieu of Classes

People with prior experience with camcorders, editing, portable audio and field lighting equipment, and studio directing may obtain certification by taking a test. Times for "testing out" must be scheduled with SCAT staff.