I am currently teaching my storytelling unit to my Honors students. Part of the unit involves reading several short fables/myths/fairy tales from around the world that have passed down for generations. Students are placed into groups and together retell a chosen story using their voice and body to enhance it. They videotape themselves, then learn the basics of iMovie. They edit, add slides, add sound effects, and music. The true point of using the iMovie is to get them familiar and comfortable with the program for our media unit which I teach next.
Here are some of the difficulties I face when teaching this unit and any suggestions for improvement would be beneficial to me—because I’m ready to give up! The stress of it all is becoming more cumbersome than the fun of it.
* Students work in groups- but generally, one person does most of the work, so it seems only one person in the group knows the program well when the unit is finished.
* I introduce the editing software on a large screen which is projected from the computer. Students do not have access at that time. They choose not to take notes, and when it’s time for them to get their footage downloaded, they don’t have a clue what to do. Nor do they remember anything about iMovie!
* I make the groups as small as possible (2-3) so that they can work collaboratively and all get access to the computer, however that means I have 15 groups screaming for me all at the same time.
* There are only four video cameras- two for taping and two for importing/exporting. Much time is wasted while students wait for a camera to download footage.
* Inevitably, batteries on the cameras die (even if charged all night). I am constantly grabbing extension cords because outlets are filled up. The fire marshal would have a fit looking at 10 cords running vicariously about the library floor!
* I aim to warn students 5 minutes before the end of class. Sometimes I’m way too wrapped up to notice. The bell rings and I find myself writing 10-12 late passes for students or wrapping up cords, saving projects, plugging in equipment, pushing in chairs, finishing an export, etc….
AUGGHHH! Despite the goal of using technology to help, it sure can be a hindrance!
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That sure does sound like a nightmare. With all those problems, I can see why you would be ready to give up.
ReplyDeleteI have one simple solution to your last problem...set a timer that will go off 5 minutes before the end of class. That way, you and the students will be made aware that it's time to wrap up.
As far as introducing the editing software and students not paying attention...can you just stop every once in awhile and remind them they have to pay attention. If they don’t, you can just stop the presentation and tell them they will have to learn it on their own. Since they won't take notes, you could give them the notes or a handout with all the instructions. When they come to you with questions (which I'm sure they will) tell them they have to first read the notes and then come to you with questions about the notes.
That doesn't solve the universal problem of group work and one member learning the program better than others. But if you can solve a couple of the problems, maybe the others won't seem so overwhelming.
It sounds like an exciting project so I hope you can resolve some of these issues and not have to give up on the assignment.
I agree with everything Effie just said. I applaud your efforts to use technology in your classroom. I would hate for you to give up- but I totally understand how the practicality of time, budget, young teenagers, etc might force you to change your mind.
ReplyDeleteJust keep your objective in mind. Are you doing this because it might be fun- or this clearly meets some academic standards. I often have to step back and ask myself this- sometimes I don't know the answer. Good luck!