DOCST 480S
Capstone Seminar in Documentary Studies
Christopher Wilson Sims
Description from DukeHub
Immersion in fieldwork-based inquiry and in-depth projects that serve as Certificate in Documentary Studies capstone experiences for students. Methods of documentary fieldwork, including participant observation, and modes of arts and humanities interpretation through a variety of mediums (including papers, film, photography exhibits, radio pieces, and performances). Consent of instructor and director of undergraduate studies required. Prerequisite: Documentary Studies 101 and four Documentary Studies electives.
Skills
- fieldworkdescription: "immersion" and 2 more
- research methodsAI review: "Methods of documentary fieldwork, including participant observation"
- makingAI review: "film, photography exhibits, radio pieces, and performances"
AI-resilient: 3 of 5
- Yes: Physical, lab or field work · "fieldwork"
- No: Live work with people
- No: Judgment someone is accountable for
- Yes: A craft you practice with your hands or body · "photography"
- Yes: Small, in-person format · seminar, 15 seats per section
The checks lean on Microsoft Research, Working with AI (2025), which found generative AI applies least to physical work and hands-on work with people. A signal, not a promise. How the score works
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