ENV 2120: Documentary Filmmaking for Advocacy and Policy

This course leverages documentary filmmaking as a powerful medium for communicating change processes, disseminating information, advocating for action, and influencing policy at the local, state, and national levels. Students will develop the skills to craft compelling narratives that simplify complex issues for diverse audiences while driving social and political change. They will learn the art of designing and creating films strategically tailored to shape policy discussions and policymaking. Students will base their films on archival work, fieldwork in Worcester, IQP projects, or graduate research in the US and abroad. They will engage in collaborative research and filmmaking processes, gaining hands-on experience at every stage of production, from concept development to final editing. They will work in teams to explore environmental documentary genres, analyze case studies of impactful films, and create their own short documentaries aimed at influencing public opinion and policy decisions. The course covers storytelling techniques, advocacy strategies, ethical considerations, and the integration of audiovisual media into policy advocacy campaigns. By exploring how documentaries can inform and inspire actionable policy responses, students will develop a deeper understanding of the intersection between communication, activism, and governance. This course will be useful for students who wish to engage with digital communication and those who wish to make a documentary of their projects, such as MQP and IQP, for sharing with the broader community.