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Recent advances in computing, digital video cameras, and editing software have shattered the "video mystique" and turned video into a routine teaching tool on a par with PowerPoint. However, widespread adoption of digital video in the classroom is yet to be seen, with the lack of pedagogical approaches as one of the reasons. Active learning, an instructional strategy characterized by a high degree of student involvement in the learning process and engagement with the material, can provide a useful approach for integrating digital video in college courses. This study evaluates an example of the use of student-produced digital video as an active learning tool, and suggests pedagogical approaches for integrating digital video in the classroom. Students in an upper-level communication course were assigned to produce a video report of a public event. They teamed up to videotape the event with a mini-DV camcorder, write a script, and edit their stories using iMovie editing software and QuickTime Pro multimedia package. A qualitative analysis of student reflection essays was complemented with reviews of student-produced videos and classroom observations. Three major themes emerged: student-material interaction, student-student interaction, and student-technology interaction. The study suggests that to be successful, a digital video assignment should be linked to specific learning goals. Secondly, clear expectations and criteria for project evaluation should be developed. Thirdly, in addition to the hands-on component, it is necessary to connect practical application with conceptual development. Although digital video is no longer a novelty in college teaching, it has not been adapted in college level courses on a regular bases. The accessibility of digital video technology makes student-generated video particularly suitable for classroom use. Overall, accumulated experiences and theoretical insights shared by the higher education community encourage college teachers to implement digital video assignments designed to stimulate student engagement in the learning process.

Stream: Learning Technologies: What They Do and How They Work

Paper: Using Digital Video Assignments as a Tool for Active Learning