Video Project - Open Thinking

        I recently viewed rants and resources from an online blogger and educator. (Check it out here… http://educationaltechnology.ca/2127) I think the article thoroughly explains unique ways to create videos that can be used in the classrooms today. I love that examples and thoughts were included in the article.
        One of my favorites was the first video, ‘Conversation with Future Me/You’. I love how creative he was to think to record himself at such a young age and then use it to make a video, years later. My other favorite was the video by Ton Do-Nguyen, ‘Countdown [Snuggie Version]’. The comparison of the original video and his video allows you to see just how much time and effort were put into the making of both videos.
        The first video would be really neat to use in the classroom, even for elementary kids. You could have them video themselves at the beginning of the school year and then again at the end of the school year. It would not be years later, but months later and they could explain what they have learned over the entire year versus what they expected to learn in the beginning of the year.
        I am thankful that technology has allowed educators to advance the learning in the classrooms. I feel that the use of technology has advanced the point of learning for most students and will continue to broaden the thoughts and views of students on many different subjects. We all learn in unique and different ways. Technology just gives us another tool of learning.

What to Teach

        Teachers must be certified to teach Math or English but surprisingly, teachers do not have to have a certification to teach a video production class. Most textbooks for video production are not current because of the fast paced changes in technology. By allowing your students to gravitate to the job they feel most interested with will allow you to get the best results.
        Start with the basics of equipment and add more advanced skills later. Using basic format of vocabulary will allow you get started and not hinder the students from being successful. As the students master new skills, you can build on them with each project. It is also a great idea to start with basic camera operation and composition, as well. The Internet and hands-on practice are great ways to master tips and improve with each project. You will learn as you go. Take it one project at a time, slowly learning to add better shots, computer graphics and even video effects.

Video Production in a Cooperative Learning Environment

        Team effort is required in making a video. There a many variables and tasks such as screenwriters, camera operators, costume and set designers, talent (actors), directors, technical directors, and editors. There are roles and responsibilities for everyone.
        As the teacher, your role would be the producer of the video productions. You would be responsible for making sure the video is created on a budget and in a timely manner. You must hire a good crew and ensure that they fit the assigned responsibility. Each student will bring strengths to the production, so preparing and prepping the students is vital.
        The screenwriter will be responsible for writing the script and mocking up the initial visuals for the video in the storyboards. It is important to make sure that the person for this role is creative and responsible. The screenwriter must also be able to consolidate brainstorming ideas from the entire video crew.
        It is best to encourage the outgoing students to tackle the roles of the actors. The energy they exuberate will help put the finishing touches on the production. The more introverted students will typically gravitate towards the behind-the-scenes positions, such as the camera operator. These students should have an artistic eye and be ready to be challenged mentally and physically.
There are other roles, such as the role of director, staff and editor, technical director, costume, make-up, set and props staff. There are plenty of options for all. All the students should be able to find something engaging to do.

Storyboard Your Project

        Creating a storyboard requires a lot of decision making and performing many tasks. You must first evaluate your screenplay. Your separate shots should be visually translated into individual storyboard panels. Each shot consists of continuous footage without cuts. The individual panels help make the task seem less overwhelming.
        When getting ready to piece your storyboard, you must make sure that you have the right location, the correct number of actors, props and even special lighting. You may want to storyboard every shot of just certain scenes. You many change your mind once you begin shooting and consider your options and surroundings.
        Shapes and dimensions will determine if you are creating a storyboard for the television screen or theatrical screen. Creating a storyboard panel is a great way to envision your film by creating a box of your illustration. You can purchase pads of storyboard panels or even make your own. Creating your own is simple and will help give you an idea of what your individual image will look like.

Improving Your Writing Skills

Audacity Podcast

Podcast Summary

Radio WillowWeb

        The three podcasts that I chose were Willowcast #32 – Inspiring Inventors, Willowcast #30 – Effective Energy, and Willowcast #21 – Endangered Animals Everywhere. Either second or fourth grade elementary students did all three podcasts.
        Inspiring Inventors podcast discussed invention vocabulary, inventors, made jokes about inventions, spoke about poetry, mentioned facts about inventions, gave a book review about an inventor, and closed the session with patent information. You could tell young readers read the speaking parts, since the audio was very monotone. However, the speakers spoke loud and clear and gave very insightful information regarding inventors and inventions. I felt this podcast was very well laid out for second grade students.
        The Effective Energy podcasts discussed renewable energy and solar energy. The podcast began with descriptive information and then moved to discussing “Did you know?” questions. Wonderful websites and poetry were also included in the session. This podcast was not as long as the first podcast that I listened to but it was informative and educational.
        Endangered Animals Everywhere podcast discussed threatened and endangered animals. The podcast began with vocabulary discussion and moved to questions, jokes, species spotlight, and poetry. The students also chose to speak on how things could be done differently to help with endangerment. This podcast was more organized and informative than the other two podcasts.
        I enjoyed getting to listen to the podcasts and think they would be a great way to incorporate group work among the class. The students could take turns researching and speaking about what they learned

.Radio WillowWeb