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Using digital video for modern languages
What is digital video?
Digital video is a term used to denote film that is produced, played or edited in a digital format. The term 'digital' denotes information stored in a binary format: that is, made up of ones and noughts which can be understood by a computer. A key feature of digital video is that it can be played or edited on computers. It can be created on camcorders and mobile phones, and webcams. It is quite straightforward to transfer video from a device to a computer for editing. Digital video can be saved in different formats for use on computers, the World Wide Web, CDs or DVDs.
Key features
Digital video is of great use in the modern languages classroom for a variety of reasons.
- Ease of use: it is relatively easy to make and edit digital video recordings.
- Storage: video footage can be stored on a network or Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), a memory stick (Flash drive) a computer, DVD or CD.
- Versatility: Video can be used for a wide range of purposes, from role-plays to more creative projects. Video recordings can be used in a range of contexts such as presentations or web pages.
- Skills development: in addition to developing language skills, digital video can be an effective way of improving learning skills, organisational and planning skills, and collaborative practice.
- Accessibility: video, can be downloaded from the Internet to computers very quickly. Video clips can also be made easily by students and teachers and placed on the Internet or school network.
