Training

Comcast Cable Channel 26 provides introductory training to all residents of Marin County free of charge, for the specific purpose of making public access television programs to be scheduled on Comcast Cable Channel 26.  The first step is to take an orientation class. This class is held once a month to go over policies and procedures. After attending an orientation class, you will need to attend introductory certification classes to use the equipment. 

The introductory studio production class is open to anyone who has attended an orientation class.  Public Access producers using the studio need a volunteer crew of up to 10 people, therefore everyone has access to the studio class whether they are signed up for a crew position or not.

NOTE: The introductory field production class and the introductory SVHS edit class are reserved only for field producers, or for people already signed up to help someone on a field production.  This class is for people who have a specific project ready to start.

All introductory training is provided on a first come, first served basis. To sign up for the next orientation class or any of the introductory equipment classes call 258-4259.

A Note about Certification

Upon completion of an introductory certification class, you will be authorized to use that equipment.  We do not expect you to become an expert on every piece of equipment. The introductory classes are not designed for professional training. Certification is necessary for insurance purposes and will familiarize you with the equipment.

Certification Classes

Field Production Class
NOTE: The introductory field production class and the introductory SVHS edit class are reserved only for field producers, or for people already signed up to help someone on a field production.  This class is for people who have a specific project ready to start.

This four hour introductory class will familiarize you with our portable SVHS (super VHS) or DV (digital video) field camera packages and the audio and lighting equipment. We will also go over safety issues and your responsibilities when checking out the field equipment .  Comcast Cable Channel 26 provides introductory training to all residents of Marin County free of charge, for the specific purpose of making public access television programs to be scheduled on Comcast Cable Channel 26. 

Studio Production Class
This four hour introductory studio production class will familiarize you with the equipment in the Studio: microphones, cameras, lights, and sets. There will be a brief introductory overview of the Control Room equipment.  Additional one-on-one training is available in the Control Room for Directing, Technical Directing, and Character Generating.  It is recommended that you get some experience volunteering in the Studio before you move up to one-on-one training in the Control Room. Comcast Cable Channel 26 provides introductory training to all residents of Marin County free of charge, for the specific purpose of making public access television programs to be scheduled on Comcast Cable Channel 26. 

Workshops, Tutorials, and One-on-One Training

The following introductory workshops, introductory tutorials, and introductory classes are not required but are available for those who wish to further their training.

Basic SVHS Editing Workshop
NOTE: The introductory field production class and the introductory SVHS edit workshop are reserved only for field producers, or for people already signed up to help someone on a field production.  This class is for people who have a specific project ready to start.

This introductory workshop will provide "hands on" instruction in the basics of linear, cuts-only editing, using the SVHS edit bay. 

Self-guided AVID edit tutorial
 The AVID edit system comes with a self-guided tutorial, including an instructional binder and video material ready for you to use.  A staff member will set up the tutorial for you, and get you started.  You don't need to bring any material of your own.

One-on-One Training

Technical Directing in the studio
Directing in the studio 
Character generator in the studio
Call: Stu Feldman: 258-4235
(after you have taken the basic studio class)

Basic introductory field equipment
Basic introductory SVHS editing for a field production 
(after you have taken the basic introductory field equipment class)
Call: Shelley Saylor: 258-4268
 

Other Resources

Book & Video Library
Comcast Cable Channel 26 has a selection of books and videos on a variety of television production subjects. Books and videos can be signed out free of charge to members. Books and videos are available for a two week period. Library material must be signed out through a staff person.

Cost of Classes

All introductory classes are free and open to the Marin County public. Comcast Cable Channel 26 provides introductory training to all residents of Marin County free of charge, for the specific purpose of making public access television programs to be scheduled on Comcast Cable Channel 26. 

Dates and Times of Classes and Tutorials

For the most part, orientations and introductory certification classes are scheduled every month . Pre-registration is required before all orientations and introductory certification classes. Tutorials are scheduled according to equipment availability. One-on-one training is scheduled according to staff and equipment availability.

Location of Classes

All introductory classes meet at Comcast Cable Channel 26. Please enter through the Cable Store (front) entrance and use the phone at the elevator to call up to our office.