Last night’s online session was great. I was very impressed with all of the sites that were discussed and even better, I’m glad that this session was recorded. There is no way that I could keep up with all the links that were being posted.
One of the topics last night, Animoto, peaked my interest so I decided to take a closer look last night after class. Within 15 minutes of setting up my account I had a short video on the Roman Empire created for class today. The students were impressed and excited when I told them they would be creating their own videos using this tool. The power of technology saves a potentially dry and boring look into the Roman Empire. I only wish there was something like this when I was a student.
I also have had some staff members interested so I think it is going to be demoed at our next staff meeting. If you are interested in seeing my video here is the link: http://animoto.com/play/ffed253beb0ecd88d968c18160bb05a3 . I was also explaining Voicethread in my class and the students are excited to attempt that as well.
I’ll keep you posted, no pun intended, on how I make out. If anyone has any tips on using Voicethread and items to avoid I’ll gladly take the help.
Hey Dean,
I have experimented with voicethread, and I am loving it. So if you run into anything, just let me know, and I will try my best to help you out. The tutorials are very helpful. I had to watch them a zillion times to figure it out, but eventually it all works it self out.
Thanks Leah. I may have to take you up on the offer.
Congrats on the technology integration! What a wonderful way to get students enthusiasm flowing!
Having used both I definitely see distinct differences. Animoto really is limited in that it is great for the purpose you used it for….creating and introducing ideas. Given that it’s only 30 seconds (for the free version) that’s about all you can expect. Also while it produces some fairly impressive looking results, I hesitate to advocate for its use as a great storytelling tool. It’s own message is, upload pictures, add music and there you go; not much rigor or deep learning.
Voicethread on the other hand, may not produce the high energy, MTV style product but has potential for much more in depth work by students. It is designed with collaboration in mind and does emphasis scripts and voice.
In terms of a stand alone product, PhotoStory3 which is free for Windows users, is likely the easiest, best software for creating powerful digital stories.
All this is to say that I’d even be willing to come out and work with your students on storytelling…..I love it and get pumped when I see teachers seeing the power. Animoto, while limited. does demonstrate the power of digital media.
[...] After reading Dean’s post, I thought I would give Animoto a try as well. I pulled some images of Canadian law and presto a [...]
Hi Dean !
I think that your project is really good. Actually, I was a bored history student.
Hey Dean…very cool that you’re getting the rest of the staff on board! I’m sure the kids will run with it…always good to add some spice to the Roman Empire!! LOL…
Thanks Dean,
This is very cool. I’ve been doing some video editing for some time, and know a few tricks to create good quality videos. That of coarse takes a bit of time. Animoto is quick, and yet creates some very ‘cool’ video effects. This could be a quick way to spice up just about any unit or topic that you could find pictures of.
[...] I was introduced to Animoto – thanks to a post from Dean Miezianko who created a short video clip about the Roman Empire using Animoto.Animoto is a great web [...]
Hey Dean,
Great usage of Animoto in the classroom! I’m actually spearheading a new program called “Animoto for Education.” Please write me at Rebecca@Animoto.com (I couldn’t find your e-mail address) if you’d be interested.
Take care,
Rebecca Brooks