My goal for Week 5 was to help you develop confidence in working with audio- and video-editing tools, but I fear the result has been the exact opposite. Some of you seem intimidated by the tools we’re using for the Video Essay project, and others seem frustrated with the technological problems you’ve encountered. At this point in the semester, it may be time for a short pep talk. Here, then, are a few things to keep in mind as you work on your video essay:
- Any time you use a new digital tool, you can expect to encounter technological problems. It’s part of the world in which we live, and it won’t do us any good to curl up in a ball and avoid new technologies. The only way for us to overcome our fears and frustrations is through steady, persistent practice.
- The good news is that most technological problems have solutions. If you are encountering a specific software problem, the chances are very good that someone else has had the same problem and has posted a solution on the internet. When you hit a wall, don’t give up and decide to wait until our next class to ask me about it. Instead, try to find help online, or go to Media Services (207 Moody Hall) for assistance.
- Most importantly, remember that YOU CAN DO THIS. This is an honors class, and it’s designed to stretch you in ways that you haven’t been stretched before, so a bit of discomfort is to be expected. But every single member of this class is capable of producing outstanding work on this project. I have faith in you, so please don’t lose faith in yourself!
Now, having said all that, I’ve decided what we need during Week 6 is plenty of time for you to work, to help one another, and to ask me specific questions about your project. Hence, we will spend all three days next week in workshop mode. Monday and Wednesday will be reserved for you to work on your videos, and I will circulate around the room to help you tackle problems you’re having. On Friday, we’ll conduct a peer review workshop, so you should be ready to show a complete draft of your video essay to your peers on that day. (Remember that the final deadline for this project has been extended until Monday, February 28.)
One last reminder: Your final draft of Project #1 (the Definitional Essay) is due at the beginning of class on Monday, February 21. To submit your paper for grading, please staple together your final draft, your rough draft, and my preliminary evaluation of your rough draft.
If you have any questions about these items, leave a comment on this post or send me an email. Otherwise, I’ll see you on Monday with your laptops in tow!