iMovie for Multimodal Work
- natewynne1982
- Mar 31, 2016
- 2 min read
In the field of education, much attention has been paid to the topic of multimodality and whether it can be used beneficially within the classroom for language learning. Lotherington and Jenson (2011) suggest, “Literate engagement in the interactive, multimodal genres created in digital space engages the participant in dynamic, multidimensional communication, (potentially) involving
Social interaction,
Haptic activation,
Physical coordination,
Visual design,
Modal complexity (e.g., multiple language engagement, musical accompaniment, and animation),
Dynamic, collaborative text construction, and
Alphabetic literacy” (p. 227-28).
One great tool for incorporating multimodality as part of computer assisted language learning in classrooms is iMovie. A software program for most Apple computer products, iMovie is an impressively powerful yet relatively simple-to-use app that allows users to create videos that can incorporate multiple forms of media. While iMovie can be used for many purposes other than language learning, the program has the potential to give language learners multiple ways to exhibit their language skills, creativity, and cultural identity through creatively inspired video content. Despite only being accessible on Apple products (not Windows), iMovie can be used on more than just Apple computers (desktops/laptops). Many people have iPhones and iPads, which also support iMovie.
To illustrate how iMovie can be used in an English language-learning environment, I found a tutorial on YouTube that teaches English language learners how to use iMovie to create videos. Titled "Conley's Cool ESL - Making a Movie with iMovie for English Language Learners," this multimodal video demonstrates for English learners not only how to create multimodal content, but also how to make “visual, aural, and written modes… engaging and fun” (Pandya, 2012, p.184). The video’s creator suggests iMovie can be used for making “video quilts” and many more projects. I'd also like to add that iMovie can be used for making digital stories that incorporate personal narratives and cultural identity (Vinogradova, 2011). To watch the video please use the link in the title above or click on the embedded video above.
While the purpose of the video is to give English learners basic instructions on how to use iMovie, the content in video itself is a great example of what a multimodal project can look like when created with iMovie. The video makes use of animated text, visual design, and musical accompaniment. It also encourages haptic interaction. Although the video is in no way professionally produced, its simplicity illustrates perfectly how iMovie can be utilized by students to easily create multimodal language projects.
Resources
Lotherington, H., & Jenson, J. (2011). Teaching multimodal and digital literacy in L2 settings: New literacies, new basics, new pedagogies. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 31, 226-246. http://dx.doi.org/10.1017/S0267190511000110
Pandya, J. Z. (2012). Unpacking pandora's box: Issues in assessment of English learners' literacy skill development in multimodal classrooms. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 56(3),181-185. http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/JAAL.000124
Vinogradova, P., Linville, H. A., & Bickel, B. (2011). "Listen to my story and you will know me": Digital stories as student-centered collaborative projects. TESOL Journal, 2(2), 173-202. http://dx.doi.org/10.5054/tj.2011.250380
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