Engaging Teens Through Video Production and Online Broadcasting
Traditional journalistic outlets, such as newspapers and magazines, are experiencing decreasing readership and, in some cases, business closures. High school students interested in journalism careers may find this discouraging, but there are other options available. One of these options is video journalism. Students can pursue their interest in journalism by reporting current events and interest stories on video. This can be taken a step further by placing the videos online. Though it sounds like an expensive endeavor for schools there are avenues available for assistance.Sources for Information and Assistance With Video Production
Whether adding a video component to an after school journalism club or creating a course, starting locally for information and help is a viable way to start. Contact a local broadcast station, commercial or public television, and ask if they have or are willing to create a program to assist with cameras, editing equipment and even mentors. Another resource is to locate a video club or independent film maker who would be willing to share their knowledge and expertise. Another source for information is the World Wide Web. Web sites, such as School Video News, provide valuable information about equipment, techniques, and even competitions designed to get students interested and involved.
How to Get Students Involved With Online Broadcasting
Getting students involved with online broadcasting sounds simple considering the abundance of sites such as YouTube. Before setting students loose to upload their videos, teachers should consider both the appropriateness and educational value of the site chosen to host student videos. Investigate sites specifically targeted to teen journalism, such as You Tell It, and choose a site based on it’s appropriateness for school use. Also make sure that the site will protect students’ identities and any personal information that might be required for registration.
One consideration for choosing a site is what it has to offer the students. Some provide RSS feeds to the students’ work and free hosting of the videos. Others offer competitions designed to engage teens with current events, whether local, national or international, as well as investigating current hot topics to teen culture and society.
Video journalism is a technological way to engage students in current events and investigative reporting. Whether a stand alone class, after school club or an option to an existing project, adding a video component that can be accessed online allows students to consider a larger audience than their own classroom or school. It can also provide a means of reaching out into the community, both for reporting and for production assistance.
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