The video coding with my code windows is going very smoothly so far now that I have the activation and deactivation codes figured out. The next step for me is to work on some scripting to see how I can report some of the information I mentioned during my screencasts. I have an upcoming research project this fall where I will be re-doing my research from my pilot study due to some poor video angles and a slightly changed methodology. I have learned a lot about how I need to film the videos, especially to evaluate the engagement of students. I need a much clearer look at the iPad itself. I believe I mentioned this in an earlier post, but I’ll recap what changes I will make:
I will need two cameras to get two angles on the student(s) for this study. The first camera will have a more distant shot of the room so I can look at independence of the student. The other camera angle will be angled downward at the student(s) so I get a zoomed in view of their interaction with the iPad. I need to play with the video to see how clear I can get that shot. I considered using an “airplay” app that allows the student’s interaction with the iPad to be sent as a screencast to my computer, which could then be recorded as it’s own video, but the only problem with that is then I cannot see the student’s hands and the gestures used to interact. I may decide to use all three angles (whole-class view, angled down at the student/iPad, and the iPad screencast) or I may just use the first two angles. Either way, because of the video stacking feature in Studiocode, I will be able to analyze both videos on the same timeline if I line up their starting points. I do not currently have any stackable videos, but I may make a sample to practice on with me manipulating the iPad. I think it’s important for me to understand this feature before I start my official study.
In terms of my video blog, it’s time to assess what I’ve done and figure out my next steps in the learning process. Here is my plan for the next few weeks:
1) Create sample videos that are stackable and that will mimic the videos I will take for my fall research study
2) Clarify my research questions and determine exactly what information I need to report in terms of measurable data.
3) Set up another training session with Ryan to review and extend my knowledge on scripting so I can code video and calculate the measurable data I need.
4) Code my sample videos using my already created code windows and try to utilize the information for looking for patterns utilizing a qualitative methodology.
As a final note for this post, this process has made me think about the training for Studiocode. I am generally pretty good with technology and have experience with video editing, so I was able to follow the day-long training fairly well. Not all educational researchers have as much experience as I do with this, and I can see them getting very confused and overwhelmed with receiving so much information in the same day. In the near future I would like to use my educational lesson plan/presenting background to design a general plan for trainings for educators. I don’t know that the best way to provide training is to go over all of the features (including the analytics) at the same time if you are trying to persuade educators to use your program. I think a more constructivist approach might be more appropriate and might lead to more permanent learning. I’ll elaborate on this more in the near future, but I just wanted to throw the idea out there. Reflecting on my experience with both the initial training and my experience constructing my own meaning by playing with the software, I have a lot of ideas to combine both practices for training purposes. Like I said though, I’ll make a post in the near future that clarifies and elaborates on these ideas. 🙂
Studiocode for Educators 