EDLD+5363+-+Final+Course+Reflections

=  EDLD 5363 Multimedia and Video Technology Course Reflection   = **// Outcomes Envisioned  //** Prior to beginning EDLD 5356 Multimedia and Video Technology, I envisioned learning complicated techniques and methods for creating digital video productions. I had worked with Adobe Premiere on a limited basis in the past, and had not found it enjoyable. You can imagine my relief when finding out that this is not what we would be covering in this course! I had hoped to learn of software programs that were less complicated and less expensive that Adobe Premier. Although Premiere is a wonderful program, it would not be a good fit for our district. I also wanted to gain experience in using the programs to edit audio and video clips. Most importantly, I had hoped to learn new ways to incorporate video editing and digital storytelling into the classroom. Through the activities included in the course, I have achieved these outcomes. I now have confidence in my ability to evaluate software packages and I am comfortable using both audio editing tools such as Audacity and video editing programs such as Windows Live Movie Maker and Video Spin. Having the opportunity to use these programs to create actual projects has enabled me to gain not only skill in using the software, but also to understand of how it can be used in an educational setting. I look forward to sharing what I have learned with my colleagues. **// Outcomes Achieved  //** The outcomes achieved through this course will enable me to be more effective in my role as instructional technology specialist. The assignments and tasks included in the course work will provide a store of knowledge that can be pulled from almost daily in my position. I have found that using the programs first hand, experimenting with different techniques and effects, learning all the features and limitation of a program, helps me as I begin working with other teachers and students on campus. Without first-hand knowledge of a program, I can’t provide them with the training or guidance that they require. That being said, everything that I have learned through this course is relevant to the work I do every day on campus. Although I may not be dealing directly with multimedia or video editing, the experience that I have gained through this course will transcend into other areas. **// Unachieved Outcomes  //** The learning outcomes described in the course syllabus aligned with the outcomes that I achieved from this course. I don’t believe that there were actually any unachieved outcomes. However, the closest thing I can come to an unachieved outcome is the feeling that if given the opportunity again, I would probably volunteer to edit our group public service announcement rather than write the script, record the voice over and shoot the video. I know that these elements are imperative to the success of the project and that one part isn’t more important than another, but I would have liked to have had the practice editing video footage. This is a skill that takes practice, and I need more editing time before I am comfortable with my ability to successfully edit any project in a smooth, cohesive manner. Laurie Womack, the primary editor for our group did a wonderful job. I’m glad she was in our group! **// Assignment Completions  //** The course assignments for EDLD 5363 were somewhat confusing for the first two weeks as there were discrepancies in what the original syllabus, revised syllabus, and course assignments included. Most of the confusion was eliminated by participating in the optional web conferences. Once I was clear in what was expected for each assignment, they were not difficult to complete. It was nice to be able to collaborate with other members of my cohort. I was fortunate to work with wonderful groups for both the photo story and public service announcement projects. Every member of my group participated and completed their portion of the project on time and in a professional manner. The assignments for this course were often time intensive, but I enjoyed the process. I was able to include my husband and oldest son in the video project, and even used the same son as the topic of my photo story. It was nice to have them help me with my project. **// What Was Learned  //** I learned much from EDLD 5363 Multimedia and Video Technology. First, I learned that I can edit video and that it isn’t all that difficult. If you have ample amounts of quality original footage and a good editing software package, you are good to go! Second, I learned that a good microphone is important when recording audio tracks. My first couple of tries with the internal microphone on my laptop were horrible. Using an inexpensive headset microphone made a world of difference. Third, I was reminded that I am a control freak! It is really difficult for me to relinquish control to someone else. It was good for me to work with a group and to force myself to allow others to contribute. This is something I have known about myself for a while, but it was good to be reminded. As an instructional leader, it will be important for me to be able to work collaboratively with others and to allow them to contribute freely to whatever project is at hand. Of all that I have learned through this course, this may be the one thing that benefits me most!