Everything Technology
Our students used a variety of different software and hardware in creating their videos, websites, photos, and surveys. Some groups used the GoPro cameras to film their footage (ski hill, beach, forests, skateboard park, tennis court, trails, etc.). These students were impressed with the quality of the recordings and really enjoyed learning how to use the devices. Other students used their phones or personal digital cameras to take photos of their location/activity. Our tech department received the second memory card for the GoPro the Friday afternoon just before Christmas holidays, so we didn't have it here until January when the groups had basically finished filming. It will be great having two GoPro cameras with our Semester II class(es).
In terms of video creation, groups used iMovie, Filmora, and Windows Movie Maker. We found a lot of similarities between iMovie and Filmora:) Regardless of the software they used, they soon came to realize how long it takes to compile and create a video. One of the main reasons for this is that they often had LOTS of footage and needed to spend considerable amounts of time trying to select/cut the most relevant clips.
Our group's biggest tip to future users is to really plan out the filming so that there isn't as much editing vast volumes of footage in order to find the ideal clip. As well, students realized that uploading videos was a very time consuming
We gave students the option to select which software they wanted to use as the timeline for a semester course was so tight. Ideally, we would have liked all students to have learned and used Filmora. In next semesters class, this is our plan. As well, we are planning to explore the more advanced aspects of Filmora.
With respect to hardware, students used the Windows Surface Pros, school computers, iPads, and personal Mac books to create their videos and websites. Again, we offered a lot of choice due to the time constraints. We found that using a mouse for the editing was critical as opposed to just using the mouse pad on the Windows Surface Pros.
For the most part, students used Google forms for their surveys. The surveys are easy to create and the results are instantaneous.
Overall, more time would have been ideal. We are looking foward to experimenting with the Go-Pros, Filmora, and the Windows Surface Pros more in Semester II.
