Reflections-+Multimedia+and+Video+Technology

=__Reflections: Multimedia and Video Technology__= =** The outcomes envisioned for this course were to learn more about different types of media and how to use them effectively. I had imagined that we would learn about something new every week. For example, I thought we would discuss how to create a podcast one week and learn how to use audio software the next week, followed by how to use movie editing software. Now that the course is complete, it is evident that the students not only learned about these different types of multimedia and video technology, they actually had a chance to apply the knowledge by creating podcasts, digital photo stories, and movies. The actual course outcomes exceeded my expectations. I found that actually using the technology to create something relevant to me made it easier to learn how to use the technology. If we had just read about the different multimedia and video technologies without the hands-on experience, we would not have learned so much from the course. **= = = =** Achieving these outcomes will greatly improve my work as an educator. The students love technology and seem to learn better and faster when it is imbedded into the curriculum. The outcomes of this course have allowed me to open my eyes to new ways of incorporating technology into my instruction. For example, I can now use Audacity as a replacement for the outdated tape recorder when working on articulation exercises. I can now have the students learn sequencing by creating a digital photo story. With the use of technology, my students will learn these skills faster because they may be more interested and focused during the lesson. I can also use Windows Movie Maker to record my students during one of their readers’ theater plays. This would not only motivate them to read better and perform their best, but it would also allow parents another opportunity to see what their children are doing in school. **= = = = ** The course was well-designed in regards to students meeting course outcomes. I met most of the outcomes listed. One area that I would re-do if I could would be the week on video editing software. The performance outcome number four states that students will edit existing video clips into one coherent video sequence. Apparently, I was confused about the assignment that week because I created an audio podcast of the video editing software, but did not create a video. I used personal video clips while creating my podcast to be sure that I was reporting accurate information about how to use Microsoft Movie Maker. I did not, however, post the video online, I posted the podcast instead. Despite not having created a video sequence in week two, I know that I can use the editing software well. The Public Service Announcement project ensured that all students in the class would learn how to use video technology. ** = =  = = ** Completing course assignments was easier for some weeks than for others. The assignment for week one was easy to complete because the instructions were clear. I was able to create a digital photo story with voice over narration that week. The assignment for week two was a little more confusing because the instructions were not clearly stated. Initially, I thought I was the only student experiencing this confusion, but after reading many of the posts in the discussion board, I realized that many other students were confused as well. The assignments for weeks three through five were relatively easy, although I am still not sure if I was supposed to have turned something in for week four. I appreciated how all of the assignments due at the end of week five were clearly stated. When the instructions and the rubric are clear, students have a better chance of finding success in completing assignments. This is true for any teacher in any grade level. ** = =  = = ** This course gave me a greater appreciation for audio and video technology. There is so much just sitting out there that our students can benefit from, and it is free! I realize now that I can sit in front of my computer and find quality programs that are free that my students can benefit from. I used to think that anything worth using had to be paid for. Completing this course has instilled confidence in me that I can not only make a fabulous video for myself, but that I can show others how to do it as well. These days, it is easy to feel like technology is taking over everything. This class taught me that not only do I have the power to control the technology around me, but that it can be fun and exciting also. I feel as though I can hardly wait to incorporate these software programs into my instruction to help my students experience more success! ** =