Using Video in Science
Document steps. While conducting an
experiment, a lab group can record
their steps. The addition of student-recorded videos of the process adds a
new dimension to learning. Students
can analyze differences in the outcome
of the experiments after watching the
videos from each lab group. The video
provides an accurate record of the
process, the subsequent reaction, and
the outcome for analysis.
For example, in an outdoor egg-cooking experiment designed to
measure solar energy, students watch
the progress of a raw egg cooking
in the sun. In the past, students recorded hourly observations of the egg
either by writing or drawing pictures.
By adding video, a more complete
observation record is available. As
the egg cooks, students take several
Using Video in Social Studies
Make maps. An elementary class can
use a video camera to facilitate the
creation of a map. Students count
their steps from one location to another and record the information with
the video device. Students can also
use a video camera to capture visual
landmarks for a digital map or use the
voice recording as an auditory map for
students who are visually impaired.
Interview people. Middle and high
school students learning about U.S.
wars can interview veterans about
their experiences and opinions. Students can then analyze the videos for
common themes that come up in past
and contemporary battles. The National Council for the Social Studies
Standards encourages students to look
at the past and consider its influence
on the present. They can also interview family members about historical
memories, cultural practices, or other
significant events.
10-second videos throughout the
day in addition to recording written observations. The video shows
the visual impact of the sun’s energy
on the egg, and it provides an audio
record too. Video recording the sun’s
effects on the visual characteristics of
an egg, alongside the audio record of
the sun’s power to create the sounds
of a cooking egg, allow students to
understand the power of an accurate
and complete observation.
Watch grass grow. Observing slow
processes can be tedious and difficult. By video recording the growth
of seedlings into plants, students can
“watch” a process that’s too slow for
the human eye to register. Other examples of this would be observing
cloud types, changes in shadows, etc.
Create primary source records of
events. Students can record the aftermath of hurricanes, tornados, or other
natural disasters. They can also record
other events of historical significance,
such as protests, campaign visits, or
local news happenings.
Demonstrate abstract concepts.
Students can create video clips demonstrating and explaining abstract concepts in economics to help them better
understand basic economic principles,
such as supply and demand or diminishing returns.
