Journal 5

Student videos spark dramatic increase in student achievement. Retrieved July 30, 2008, from Apple Web site: http://www.apple.com/education/profiles/escondido/index2.html

Under Project Live, Escondido Union School District students are being given the opportunity to work on video projects. These projects are based on specific subject areas where they are struggling. Kath Shirley, the EUSD technology coordinator, says the program has helped increase understanding of subject areas for students and is helping them make connections to other concepts as they participate in hands on learning. Students who have participated in Project Live have shown a point increase of 10 to 30 in their standardized testing. The program is making it’s biggest impact with students who are other wise traditionally marginalized, such as second language learners, those who have special needs and who come from low income families. Jennifer Walters, the EUSD superintendent, says that Project Live along with Apple have given Escondido students educational tools to help them receive the best possible education.

How does film making help reinforce subject areas?
I think that the process is engaging for students. It’s very hands on and creative. Also, students are coming up with their own ideas, ways of representing and ways of teaching key concepts. Going through the process of brainstorming, storyboarding, filming, and editing, students are exposed to the key concepts repetitively.

What else can students learn from filmmaking?
The filmmaking process mirrors the writing process. Brainstorming, organizing your ideas, revising etc. Film making also encourages problem solving and teamwork.