Machinima Class

I had the opportunity to teach a class on making machinima last week. We used SnapZ Pro to record avatars moving around in Second Life and edited the resulting Quicktime movies in iMovie. I enjoyed watching the students approach the programs and figure out the details of each one. Each student seemed excited to work with the content and about the products they came up with. I enjoyed the experience as well, but felt frustrated when I was unable to get the students to the same point from which we could work together. I quickly learned, however, that each would work at their own pace. It seemed best to give an overview of what to do then spend my time troubleshooting. Overall, I found the experience valuable in guiding my thoughts about the possibility of using this as a teaching tool.

Social Software

I believe social software has great potential for the future of education. Two of my favorite examples come in the form of YouTube and Second Life. YouTube gives a wonderful platform for amateur content makers to showcase their talents, get feedback, and view content that will stretch the limits of their own capabilities. It also allows students to quickly find video content that may illustrate some idea or concept they are working with. Second Life has similar potential but also can be used for teaching classes, finding experts who may also be online, and working out problems with peers. Both of these examples of social software can help break down feelings of isolation students may have in dealing with problems, and lead them towards a solution.

Get ready for machinima!

I'll be teaching a little bit of Snapz Pro and iMovie next week, so get prepared. Find a place to give a tour in Second Life an we'll start directing!