Standards III

Task Appropriate Tools in Problem-Solving

Use task-appropriate tools to synthesize knowledge, create and modify solutions, and evaluate results in a way that supports the work of individuals and groups in problem-solving situations.

 I have discovered that I can usually find a solution to the basic problems that present themselves in the production of presentations such as this one. One quickly becomes a qualified critic of help menus. Problems generated by this project included communication on-line with the group, locating appropriate video clips on the Internet, confronting the issue of conflicting file formats, and designing the project given the input of the other group members. I have always felt as though I was on my own in solving whatever problems I encounter in computer technology, especially working in a situation in which other teachers on campus know even less than I do. However, because I encountered many problems during my adventure in TATC, I have learned  to communicate with other professionals on-line. One benefit of TATC is associating with others who are experienced teachers and learners in the computer environment. A group project such as this one forces me to rely on other professionals.

Caption 9

Indicators: 10.1s, 10.3s, 10.4s, 10.6s, 10.7s, 10.8s, 10.9s, 10.10s, 10.12s, 10.13s, 10.14s, 10.15s, 10.17s, 10.18s, 10.19s, 10.20s, 10.21s, 10.22s, 10.25s, 10.26s, 10.30s, 10.31s, 10.32s, 10.33s, 10.35s, 10.36s, 10.40s, 10.42s, 10.43s, 10.44s, 11.10s, 11.11s, 11.12s, 11.17s, 11.28s, 11.29s, 11.30s, 11.39s

Artifact #9

Descriptors: Searching the Internet for video, sound and graphics; Communication through electronic media; Video download; Video editing; Problem solving; Cooperation within a group; Script/Storyboard writing; Streaming video; Researching, downloading, and applying a video "Ripper"; Web page; Download video from a CD.

Title: Mood Video

Course: Video Technology - 105

Date Created: March 25, 2003

Source: Internet, VideoWave resource CD, other group members, and my own creativity and understanding

Media: Web Page, AVI via VideoWave, Windows Media Encoder, Video Ripper.

Description: The video begins with a dramatic laser-generated eagle to capture the viewer's attention. We are then immediately plunged into clips of the September 11 tragedy, evoking all the emotions that went with that horrific yet unifying part of our history. Clips of young people running draped in a flag and several flag shots follow. The mood is first of pride, of the somber strength generated by  9-11, and, finally, of the hope that young patriots convey to us all. My contribution to the project included locating video clips on the Internet and downloading them. I also acquired one from a CD. Besides the difficulty of finding some on-line, the second problem came about because the video editing software, VideoWave, did not accept the formats that were downloaded. I solved that problem by searching the Internet. I found that there are programs called "rippers" which might help. I located a free "ripper" and downloaded it. That allowed me to cut the videos into useable sizes and translate them into useable formats. I then put these into VideoWave and edited them. I had to compress them and send them to Steve Smiley, who was the producer. I also created the storyboard for the project.

Rationale: Group projects are meant to illicit cooperation, communication, and contribution by each member in an effort to create a viable and meaningful product. The difficulties of doing this on-line are immense, yet interesting. The entire effort is one of problem solving, whether it is in finding ways to communicate effectively on-line, locating appropriate video clips, accessing those clips with one's video editing software, changing or generating accepted formats for the video, writing a script that is feasible, sending elements to one another, or streaming the video for web access.

Implications for future: Students experiencing their first video assignment might feel more comfortable in a group environment. If group projects continue, then the instructor should be sure that responsibilities are being changed so that all aspects of development are experienced by the students. Communication with other students on-line is also a cherished resource, especially which participates in distant locations. However, I would personally prefer group interaction face-to-face whenever possible. I plan to incorporate video editing skills this coming year as I gather a group of students to do an 8th grade video. This will be similar to the senior video many high schools distribute. 

Reviewers Comments: "Awesome job, guys!!! I was very impressed....what a moving subject!!! You guys did wonderful!!! Everything worked and the clips and music were awesome!!"

Reviewer Name: Leah H. Franco
Title: Channel 1 Learner
Date Reviewed: March 26, 2003