Journal #4- If you give a kid a camera...

Campbell, L. (2012). If you give a kid a camera.. Learning and Leading with Technology, 39(5), 30-33. Retrieved from http://www.iste.org/learn/publications/learning-and-leading/February-2012.aspx

Summary:

The article “If You Give a Kid a Video Camera” by Laurie O. Campbell illustrates the power of incorporating technology in the classroom and the fruits it can render when used appropriately.  Campbell begins with the simple, yet innovating, idea of using video cameras in education.  She states, “If you give a student a personal mobile device, such as a video camera, he will want to use it to learn more.”  Throughout the article, Campbell shares her philosophy that students are eager to learn; they just need an opportunity to demonstrate their eagerness to acquire new knowledge.  Using a video camera to foster learning is possible as it is visible in the numerous videos that are uploaded to websites like YouTube by children on a weekly basis.  Campbell goes on to state that to successfully use this piece of technology in the classroom and help students achieve the greatest level of learning a teacher must first establish a plan.  In other words, educators should first find a purpose or area where video recording can be applied.  There are no limits to the subject areas in which video recording can be used because as Campbell points out such technology can be easily applied in history, language arts, science, and math.       

Question 1:

Will mobile devices be available at my school for student use?

Using video cameras in education is a very refreshing idea and one that can work.  However, it is important to keep in mind that not all schools have the funds to purchase video cameras for student use.  Although students might have their own personal video camera or smart phone with the ability to record video as an educator you can expect every student to have such piece of technology.  Despite all the bumps in the road which an educator might encounter, the possession of just one video camera can allow for learning to occur.  I believe that the greatest obstacle which an educator can encounter is finding the appropriate way to incorporate the video in lessons because it takes planning.  

Question 2:

Can video recording promote global learning?

Before reading Campbell’s article, I did not imagine how video recording could promote global learning but it is possible.  As Campbell explains in her article, video recording grants students that may not be in the same region (state, country, continent) the opportunity to communicate and learn about distinct cultures and ways of life.  This means, that students in San Marcos, California could easily connect and share their life experience with students residing in Japan.