How to Use Video Camcorders in the Classroom
Camcorders can be an invaluable tool that encourages the learning process from kindergarten through college in a variety of subject areas. Students of all ages can be taught how to use a camcorder and include the technology in their studies. Video encourages creative communication and helps develop technical and software skills.
Instructions
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Classroom Uses of Camcorders
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Capture important learning moments. Have a charged camcorder ready at all times to capture interesting presentations, discussions and debates that can be replayed to reinforce a lesson plan. Also capture fun times that can be edited into a DVD to share with students and parents at the end of the school year.
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Create a story. The art of storytelling has been altered from verbal and written methods to capturing information on video. Students can use the camcorder to create stories that will help them understand various components of successful communications (i.e., oral information that is enhanced with gestures, voice inflection, props, pictures and graphics).
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Document individual and small group student projects. Certain classroom assignments can venture beyond papers and reports to include video that is recorded and edited by students. They can submit the video along with written support documentation and resources. A video also allows an individual student or group to share findings with the entire class by playing the video on a computer or monitor.
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Tape a field trip. Turn a trip into a classroom instructional video. Upon returning to the classroom, the video will help reinforce lessons learned on the trip and create the opportunity for enhanced discussion.
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Develop and reinforce student skills. Today's students are very comfortable with visual media. Using a camcorder in school increases their media literacy, develops the imagination, improves communication techniques and increases active participation.
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Record faculty presentations for future self-improvement. Focus the camera on a teacher who is delivering a lesson to the class. Reviewing the tape at a later time will provide the teacher with ideas about improving presentation techniques and lesson plans.
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Tips & Warnings
Include several accessories: tripod, headphones to monitor sound while filming, external microphone with a windsock (foam cover to reduce unwanted noise such as wind), tie-clip microphones for interviews, spare batteries, second battery charger, neck strap, padded carrying bags or aluminum cases that will prevent equipment damage.
