Whew! This assignment just about did me in! I collected stills and video clips all week. I thought about the plan, how it might come together, etc. I researched the various free video editing software and chose one (I also was in contact with my assignment buddy as per instructions). Nothing prepared me for the number of hours it was going to take to put something credible together.
I honestly did not think I would finish my assignment in time. I fought with my copy of Microsoft Movie Maker to make clips, put them together, add audio, effects and transitions. And even with all the cuts it's still a bit too long. And then I had to fight to get it on my wikispace! I feel as though I have been wiped clean of all traces of creativity!
I am not overly pleased with what I have created. But I also honestly do not believe that I could have done better for my first effort in creating a video sequence from stills and videos I found online. I may have had better luck choosing a different subject or creating a travelogue or news story. In retrospect, I tried to cram a subject that needs more time into the span of a minute. Not unlike the Genie in Aladdin (Disney); "Phenomenal Cosmic Power . . . Itty, bitty living space!"
I also know that I am learning new skills. And that becoming proficient at new skills takes time. I pray for patience, but just cannot seem to wait patiently.
Monday, June 15, 2009
Monday, June 8, 2009
Reflections on Creating a Digital Photo Story
I finally finished my first digital story. I didn't find it particularly difficult . . . once I got started. I just had problems moving past all the fears I began experiencing when I first looked through the week's assignments. As quickly as I would begin to think about my digital story, fear reared its ugly head and I would hesitate; often finding something (anything!) else to do!
One of the ways I procrastinated was to read and reread the Week 1 readings. As I read the Digital Storytellers Cookbook, Joe Lambert was able to put into words exactly how I was feeling: "For some, conceiving an idea for a story is an easy process; for others it is the beginning of a crisis. . . . We informally tell stories all the time, but the conscious construction of story call up mental blocks" (Lambert, 2006).
Encouraged, I began to work . . . uploaded the pictures I wanted to use, collaborating on the script, recording the narrations for the slides, previewing, and reworking. Finally, I felt it was ready to turn in. I had a little difficulty uploading the file to YouTube, and figuring out how to link it to my Wiki, but I eventually got it.
My final work is not perfect, but I am proud of it. I tried something new! And now that I've created a digital story, I know my next effort will be better (and easier -- emotionally). And even better the third time I create a digital story. I feel even a little smug.
References:
Lambert, J. (2006). Digital storytelling cookbook, 1-30. Story Center. Retrieved June 2, 2009 from http://www.storycenter.org/cookbook.pdf.
One of the ways I procrastinated was to read and reread the Week 1 readings. As I read the Digital Storytellers Cookbook, Joe Lambert was able to put into words exactly how I was feeling: "For some, conceiving an idea for a story is an easy process; for others it is the beginning of a crisis. . . . We informally tell stories all the time, but the conscious construction of story call up mental blocks" (Lambert, 2006).
Encouraged, I began to work . . . uploaded the pictures I wanted to use, collaborating on the script, recording the narrations for the slides, previewing, and reworking. Finally, I felt it was ready to turn in. I had a little difficulty uploading the file to YouTube, and figuring out how to link it to my Wiki, but I eventually got it.
My final work is not perfect, but I am proud of it. I tried something new! And now that I've created a digital story, I know my next effort will be better (and easier -- emotionally). And even better the third time I create a digital story. I feel even a little smug.
References:
Lambert, J. (2006). Digital storytelling cookbook, 1-30. Story Center. Retrieved June 2, 2009 from http://www.storycenter.org/cookbook.pdf.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Web Conference Reflections -- June 6, 2009
Off to a slow start, this morning's web conference picked up speed once Dr. A. gave presenter rights to one of our members who was able to get most things working at the same time. Once most of the communication levels were established and we all felt comfortable, members of the group began talking with each other and the real conferencing commenced. Dr. A. gently faded into the background, in attendance, yet only occasionally contributing. In retrospect, that may have been her plan all along. Get us started, slowly relinquishing the reins as others stepped in. What a good facilitator should do, actually.
At first I felt very awkward, both with my face plastered on the screen and with using the microphone. I have never liked hearing my voice and am often self-conscious when using a webcam. I also had a difficult time following much of the conversation as people talked at the same time as others or forgot to identify themselves. I imagine as we progress through the course and use the web conference tool more often, I (as well as others) will become more self-assured and be able to use the technology with greater ease.
At this first reflection on using web conferencing, I still feel ill-at-ease with webcam technology. In my mind's eye I can see a great deal of potential for its use. In the classroom, I can see myself being able to give a lesson, even if I cannot be in the room. In the computer lab, no matter which way a student's screen is pointed, we can all communicate without turning around and craning our necks to see the speaker. I can easily see its use as another tool for a professional learning community -- members would no longer need to travel to meet, we could sit in the comfort of our classrooms, offices, or home and conduct our meetings and share new ideas, discuss issues, and work on team-building.
On second thought . . . I can see much value in learning to effectively use web conferencing. I must make sure I take advantage of every opportunity to use and practice this!
At first I felt very awkward, both with my face plastered on the screen and with using the microphone. I have never liked hearing my voice and am often self-conscious when using a webcam. I also had a difficult time following much of the conversation as people talked at the same time as others or forgot to identify themselves. I imagine as we progress through the course and use the web conference tool more often, I (as well as others) will become more self-assured and be able to use the technology with greater ease.
At this first reflection on using web conferencing, I still feel ill-at-ease with webcam technology. In my mind's eye I can see a great deal of potential for its use. In the classroom, I can see myself being able to give a lesson, even if I cannot be in the room. In the computer lab, no matter which way a student's screen is pointed, we can all communicate without turning around and craning our necks to see the speaker. I can easily see its use as another tool for a professional learning community -- members would no longer need to travel to meet, we could sit in the comfort of our classrooms, offices, or home and conduct our meetings and share new ideas, discuss issues, and work on team-building.
On second thought . . . I can see much value in learning to effectively use web conferencing. I must make sure I take advantage of every opportunity to use and practice this!
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
