Product Reviews
Digital Science Video Libray
By Camilla Gagliolo
Visual Learning Company (VLC) has launched a new digital video library for integrated use of science videos in elementary and middle school classrooms. The Digital Science Video Library provides science videos specifically formatted for use with iPods and other portable video players. The library includes more than 1,000 video clips available in the H.264 digital format, a video-compression technology that provides high-quality video in small file format. Although the library contains videos specially formatted for use with iPods, it can also be used with a projector in the classroom. I found that both methods of viewing these science videos are effective in schools, depending on the availability of iPods and teaching preferences.
The library features each title as a full show as well as shorter content clips (about a minute in length), metadata for enhanced search capability, and teacher’s guides. The collection covers a range of topics in earth science, life science, and physical science for elementary school students, and the series expands to include health science and integrated science for middle school students. Each video is enhanced with closed captioning and includes on-screen quizzes and relevant vocabulary.
VLC has optimized the video library for use with other media management systems. I found that the video library was a useful toolset for providing clear, sharp video in a small file size that is ready for immediate use on portable video players. The H.264 digital format provides great picture quality on small video screens and translates well on larger screens, if preferred. I manually uploaded the video collections through iTunes to iPod sets. Our 10 iPod sets then traveled from classroom to classroom in a portable iPod charger.
The collection of science videos clearly explains basic scientific concepts while presenting vocabulary study with interactive learning activities, such as video quizzes. Many of the videos provide real-life connections to natural wonders and hardto-grasp science concepts, bringing learning to life in a portable multimedia format. VLC videos include live-action footage and computer animations to illustrate real-world examples of science concepts. With unique video footage and colorful animations, these multimedia resources explore science concepts and terminology in depth while breaking meaty topics into smaller chunks to meet diverse learning needs. The combination of video and graphics with extensive teacher guides and interactive learning activities presents a learning toolkit that stimulates multiple learning styles and preferences. The immediate accessibility to science resources through this pre-formatted video series provides an effective resource for teaching that covers many areas of student learning. The portability of the media makes it ideal for individualized instruction and small-group reinforcement.
Digital Science Video Library
$89.95 per title, per school building Site licenses available for multiple schools; pricing based on student population Visual Learning Company www.visuallearningco.com
Camilla Gagliolo is an instructional technology coordinator with Arlington Public Schools in Virginia. She also serves on the ISTE Board and as chair of the SIG Board Committee.
Copyright © 2009, ISTE (International Society for Technology in Education), 1.800.336.5191 (U.S. & Canada) or 1.541.302.3777 (Int'l), iste@iste.org, www.iste.org. All rights reserved.
Learning & Leading with Technology | September/October 2009
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