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Using digital video for modern languages
Organisational issues
A teacher who is shooting video to create resources for use in the classroom will find that it is relatively easy to create clips using
- a camcorder
- a mobile phone (check that it is enabled for video and that it has audio capability)
For resource creation, small clips will be the most manageable and most easily usable afterwards. The length of footage might not be a problem with mobile phones where film length is restricted, but a camcorder tape can run for an hour. This can have several implications:
- File size: video files can be massive and will require large amounts of storage space on a computer
- Transfer time: transfer to a computer can only be done in real time. An hour of footage will take an hour to transfer
- Editing workload: editing takes a long time, so the longer the footage the longer the editing will take
For students who are working on video projects the above advice applies. Additionally, the teacher needs to take other matters into consideration.
Equipment
Camcorders are relatively cheap nowadays and very easy to use. In addition to a camera, it may be advisable to use an external microphone if the camera permits it. A tripod is very useful but not absolutely necessary.
For transferring footage, a USB or Firewire cable is needed. It may also be possible to use Bluetooth technology, which enables wireless transfer of data. Consult the ICT co-ordinator or technician for further advice.
Before filming
- Permission should be obtained from parents, especially if footage is to be placed online. Additionally, students must be organised into workable groups and roles allocated.
- Roles, such as director, editor, camera operator must be strictly adhered to. Students must understand this.
- Planning, filming and editing time must be available.
- The video work, if short and simple, may take place in lesson time.
- More ambitious work might only take place outside of lessons and may be restricted to small groups in a video club or planned to take place on 'activity' days.
- Students must also be familiar with the camera, how it operates, its battery life, the function and purpose of techniques such as zooming and panning, and other types of shots.
When filming, the following need to be taken into account.
- Light
- Location: access, safety, props
- Microphones: internal or external and how to combat wind noise
Editing footage
Students need to be familiar with editing software. Windows Movie Maker is a free editor that comes with Windows XP.
It is fairly basic, but easy to learn and meets the needs of most student video projects.
Students must be made aware of copyright issues. This applies particularly if they wish to add a music track to footage.
Students must understand which file format and resolution for saving the video. This relates clearly to the end use of the video. If it is to be placed on the Internet, then a low resolution end product should be sufficient.
Software such as Windows Movie Maker gives the user all the relevant options before work is finalised, but students need to be clear in this regard.
