Children's media have the capacity to prepare young learners to develop the knowledge, attitudes, and skills they need to contribute to a more peaceful world. Research suggests international coproductions of Sesame Street and other children's media efforts are linked to positive impact on how viewers perceive themselves and their own cultures, as…

This article explores the creative function of virtual instruments, sequencers, loops, and software-based synthesizers to introduce basic scoring and sound design concepts for visual media in an introductory music technology course. Using digital audio workstations with user-focused and configurable options, novice composers can hone a broad range…

This definitive book presents the newest research linking graphic narratives and literacy learning, as well as the tools teachers will need to make comic book projects a success in their classrooms. The Comic Book Project (www.comicbookproject.org) is an internationally celebrated initiative where children plan, write, design, and publish original…

The thirty-third annual International Student Media Festival was held last October in Anaheim. The authors went to see some of the activities, feel the electricity generated by the students, teachers, and parents in attendance, and visit with some of the participants. This wonderful showcase of the best student-produced media in the nation has…

Describes the uses, advantages and disadvantages of styrofoam sheeting and foam rubber in theatrical productions. (PRA)

This article aims to help teachers looking for an exciting major unit designed to help their students meet educational standards in these areas: (1) library research skills, (2) preparing and writing a standard, (3) research paper, in this case on a significant figure in world history, (4) writing a creative story, including adaptation of…

Outlines procedures for producing an effective video program focusing on the need for a well-written, well-planned script. Discusses, for example, content, audience, the visual dimension, length, sound effects, movement, and writing style. (DC)

Discuses mainstreaming students into drama classes. Suggests ways to determine whether a student is ready to be mainstreamed, the importance of age and interest-appropriate mainstreaming, and casting scenes and plays. (RS)

Describes a packet of information and instructions for the props manager and crew of a student production. Includes definitions, steps to follow, checklists, and rehearsal tips. (PRA)

Describes how a production firm met the challenge of training American teachers at Department of Defense Dependent Schools, Atlantic Region, to use a single-camera, portable VTR system and to develop expertise in training others in video use. Discusses workshop format, course syllabus, instructional strategies, and project goals. (JN)

Outlines procedures followed by seventh- and eighth-grade journalism students at the military dependent school at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, South Carolina, in publishing an award-winning newspaper. (GT)

In school theater, if children feel that they and not the teachers have created the characters, or have influenced or created the script, songs, sets, and dance--in other words, if they "own" what they act--they act better and enjoy it more. When children do not have ownership, they go through the motions, stand where they are told, say…

At Lincoln High School in Stockton, California, educators are enthusiastic about a theater arts program that claims far-reaching educational benefits for students of many ages and types. (JM)

K-12 schools are broadening their curriculum offerings to include audio, video, and other multimodal styles of communication. A combination of savvy digital natives, affordable software, and online tutoring has created a perfect opportunity to integrate professional level video and videoconferencing into curricula. Educators are also finding…

This compilation of guidelines for using and producing various forms of media begins with hints for bulletin boards and other displays, including principles of layout, elements of design, and use of color. Advantages and disadvantages of using overhead transparencies are then outlined. Recommended uses of transparencies are listed, and tips for…