In the project discussed in this article, 30 11-year olds made an animated film in the machinima style, influenced by both film and game culture, and using a 3-D animation software tool, Moviestorm. The processes and products of the project will be analysed using a social semiotic/multimodal approach, exploring the social interests behind the…

In this article, the author describes a project using acetate sheets. This project was to have at least two layers: (1) the first layer is a more detailed front layer of the acetate sheet; and (2) the second layer is a piece of painted paper behind the acetate. This lesson presents an opportunity to help students think in "layers," which will be…

The project described in this article explores the transition from a paper-based book, which deals with higher education (HE) ranking tables, namely "The Times Good University Guide" (GUG), to a fully customizable e-book. This article sets the background of the project, identifies design research as the general methodological approach,…

Explains how to transfer graphics from paper into multimedia productions through scanning. Discusses uses of scanning in business, government and education; how the scanner works; types of scanners; and general facts about them. Presents tips for effective scanning from professionals, including general maintenance advice. (AEF)

Discusses Compact Disc-Interactive (CD-I) using a question-and-answer format. Highlights include development of the CD-I technology; where to purchase discs and players; compatibility with other CD-ROM drives; how to make discs; authoring systems versus custom programs; entertainment and educational applications; licensing issues; specifications;…

Look no further than to the popularity of C-SPAN's annual video documentary competition for middle and high schoolers, and it's obvious that video editing, and the technology that comes with it, is important to today's students. In the past it was a complex, involved, and expensive process. Video editing is now within the reach of anybody with a…

Reviews the options for typeset punctuation (e.g., open and closed quotation marks, and dashes) hidden in most desktop publishing software packages. Advocates the use of software manuals by journalism students in order to produce publications that look typeset rather than typewritten. (DMM)

Examines the use of the microcomputer in video production and considers the types of equipment, the management, and the technological capabilities that need to be available to a small producer. Highlights include software packages for character generation; digitization; three-dimensional image animation; and graphics modules. (four references)…

Examines six nonlinear video editing systems with dual-stream M-JPEG engines and a wide range of real-time titles, graphics, transitions, and DVEs (three are Mac-based: Avid Xpress, Avid MCXpress, Discreet Logic and three run on Windows: Fast Video Machine, Media 100xr, Scitex StrataSphere). Includes a table detailing capabilities, graphics,…

Examines various technological and artistic developments in the area of television production via their potential effects on viewers' comprehension and appreciation of televised programs. Developments in television equipment are reviewed, special effects and computer graphics are discussed, and future predictions and suggestions are presented. (47…

Discusses ZGRASS, a programing language designed for graphics production, especially for applications in education and training, and provides guidelines for people looking into a new computer graphics system. (CHC)

Developed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, TPL is a flexible natural language computer package that can be used to simplify the preparation of tables of data for annual library reports. Data on interlibrary loan transactions are used to construct sample tables illustrating program features. Two references are listed. (RAA)

Discusses techniques for creating computer slide shows. Topics include memory; format; color use; HyperCard and CD-ROM; font styles and sizes; graphs and graphics; the slide show option; special effects; and tips for effective presentation. (Author/AEF)

Describes easy-to-use, easy-to-learn dedicated graphics packages for developing slide presentations shown directly from computers. A general description of the features of five packages and suggestions for software selection are provided. A sidebar provides graphics tips, such as the use of color, typefaces, and formatting, for developing…

Presents tips for creating a successful schoolwide newsletter by using desktop publishing software applications. Provides examples of information to include in a library media center newsletter. Discusses readers' needs, layout and format, graphics, news leads and headlines, and visual images, as well as various newswriting and editing techniques.…