Creating movies for specific subject learning in the classroom

My third blog will be on the use of educator created movies for educational purposes in the classroom. Over the past week I have been enamored by my journey into creating a video, slide, movie for the purpose of our classroom assignment. Of all the assignments thus far, this was by far the most groundbreaking for me. I have learned quite a bit in this class and have created projects guided by our professor, but this was the one project that kept my attention and I refused to stop until it was done. It was not easy, but this opened up so many doors that I thought were closed.

For one, I own a macbook, and never once used imovie before. Sure, I clicked the icon and made the intro begin, but I eventually clicked off under the assumption that I would have to buy something to make it work. Since I am broke and have little time to do extracurricular things I never ventured any farther. This assignment however, forced me to try and I was pleasantly surprised it didn't cost a dime. This was the project I created and posted to youtube.

Yes, I understand it is not as slick as many of the other documentaries or videos on youtube, but I created it. I've never done this before. I am very pleased at how possible this was. Now imagine doing this same task a few times? After a while you would get somewhat better at honing this task. You discover new ways to perform the editing, sound and use of colors. I can envision this type of education int he classroom benefiting everyone involved. From the teacher researching the topic and creating the video specifically for the classroom. To the students who view the videos created specifically for them to view. That has the topic geared towards whatever they are learning.

If the subject is history, the access to pictures, video and testimonials are abundant. If the topic is science imagine filming a expedition you are on in another part of the country and filming the research? That can be used for the classroom for years to come. Take for instance and English literature class during black history month. The weather is terrible in Ohio, but we have so much to be thankful for. Now during this literature class we are reading a novel written by Toni Morrison. A exceptional African American Author who happened to grow up in Lorain.

Now during the previous summer the teacher could have taken a tour of the areas Toni Morrison frequented as a child. Visit buildings that still remain. History is all around us and the creation of a personal documentary for your classroom can accentuate your points. It can make your teaching more elaborate than previously expected.

The possibilities are endless by using the movie medium in the classroom. I know I will utilize this when possible in several areas of study. So if you haven't created a video diary, movie or slide show yet. Give it a try, I know it may be time consuming, but in the end you will be proud of what you have created. 

Martin Heberling III