BP4_Web 2.0 Tool---Animoto

                                                               (Animoto, 2010)

Animoto  is a web tool with countless applications in any classroom with any subject.  The beautiful part is that it does not require a degree in video editing to use it.  As a matter of fact, it requires no video skills whatsoever.  All one needs is a basic understanding of digital photography and how to upload images to the web.  Animoto does the rest.  The cable television station G4 gave Animoto high marks for its innovation and ease of use.  Watch the complete review at G4 Animoto Review.

While my school was able to move on to digital editing, many students and classrooms do not have editing software.  Animoto gives students an entry into the world of visual creativity.  It can be a legitimate jump on point for teaching future visual skills.  Even in a school that already has editing software, Animoto can still introduce students to the art of the visual image.  

First, go to the Animoto site and follow the simple prompts.  Its instructions are concise and explain exactly what to do.  After uploading the images, background music can be chosen and transition designs selected.  It is now time to sit back and let Animoto do the rest.  Within minutes Animoto will play back an edited video of your images, complete with music and transitions.  If you do not like the first version, it can be sent back multiple times until you have a video creation that pleases you.  The beautiful part is that Animoto does all the work.

This is a wonderful tool for any teacher to use.  The applications are only limited by the teacher’s imagination.  Its uses can include everything from catchy lesson intros, to discussion pieces, to showing the class’s last field trip.  Another application for Animoto is student projects.  If a classroom does not have access to digital editing software, then Animoto can open a creative doorway for students to experiment visually without having to jump on a strenuous software learning curve.  The class can actually watch in real time as Animoto creates and then sends back their piece.  Or, students can access it from home and create assignments that tap into their visual skills.

Even the most stubborn digital immigrant will find Animoto an inspiring web tool.  We live in a sight and sound generation in which visual literacy is playing an ever increasing role in the classroom.  Animoto helps the teacher step into the world of digital creativity without having to spend weeks learning how to do it.

Here is a quick video I made using photographs from a trip to Gettysburg.


Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.