Much like a research paper, a mini-documentary offers students opportunity to display a deeper understanding of particular topic using visuals and audio a little differently from the traditional paper and presentation.

From doing a mini-documentary project, students can:

• Display research skills.

• Gain skills in conveying complex ideas visually.

• Learn the basics of visual literacy in film.

• Learn basic video production and editing.

Students have easy access to tools like:

• Simple to use video equipment from the Catlab.

• iMovie: A video editing software for Mac available on Catlab computers.

• Media research resources to help students find creative commons video, audio, and images to use in their projects.

Some students may be better equipped than others to work on their projects at home using their own software. Do know that the Catlab can only support software available on the machines located in their labs. Students should be ready to recieve software support from other resources if necessary.

On the iPad:

If you are thinking about checking out iPads for your class from CETLOE, this is a project that can be done using the iPad. Featuring a camera, mic, and access to iMovie on the iPad; students can create projects with a greater deal of flexibility.

Check out the project page:

You can link from iCollege to our project page which features tips, documentation, and examples updated regularly. Never worry about if you have the most up to date information to give your students.