Many of these classes as they exist now involve putting together a daily news show, where students learn to use cameras, editing software, teleprompters, microphones and other media technology. I would keep with this tradition, but would dedicate a large portion of class time to identifying messages in media and the ways that they are communicated. We would watch short films, music videos, ads, YouTube videos, etc. and identify what the author is trying to communicate and how they are communicating.
We would study sound, editing, acting, production design, costume and make-up, cinematography and have a study on writing and directing in order to discover how these elements combine to help communicate messages in the medium.
Then, having gained a better understanding of communicating messages in media, students would create videos of their own, demonstrating command of these elements in communicating a message of their choosing. These could be incorporated into news blips for the daily news show or exist independently of this program.
Students would leave this class with a better understanding not only of the technology used to create video, but other various tools at their disposal to put their unique voice into the media they create. They would also be more aware of messages in all media they consume, helping them to be more informed viewers, more active members in the media and more independent thinkers.
Asia,
ReplyDeleteBefore I read your post I really didn't understand what media classes were about and you did an awesome job of explaining it in detail. It is obvious that you have a passion for this subject and I really like how you want to put emphasis on the messages we get from media. If this was offered when I was in high school I probably would have taken your class. I think it is really important to be conscious of how messages are portrayed in media and I am glad you plan on teaching this. Also, the other elements of media you talked about like costume design, makeup and acting will attract more students than just saying "TV production." Thank you for enlightening me on media production!
I love your ideas. The media specialist here at one of the elementary schools is currently implementing something close to this but on a smaller scale. These productions created by students are streamed throughout the school during the announcements. I have witness the rewards demonstrated by their confidence and pride in their work. Having this opportunity available to high school students sounds amazing for those who tend to take the performing arts track because that is as close to Media Literacy they can get. Thanks for sharing and I look forward to seeing the students shine from your instruction.
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