Last week, I found out I was I getting an iPad for my class. This was quite a surprise because I had not asked for an iPad. Apparently, one of the other broadcast video teachers asked for a device to take to the Student Television Network Conference. Our students are competing at the conference, and instead of hauling a desktop computer and camera to the conference, he was able to convince our coordinator that it would be easier to take an iPad. So I will be getting my first iPad for classroom use. Yay!
I am not new to iOS devices. There are 3 in use in my living room right now, including the one that I am using to write this portion of the blog. As a matter of fact, my almost 2 year old can unlock the iPad, swipe until she finds her apps and open & close them. So now my task is to set up an iPad for use as a mobile capture and editing device. I don’t know how we will be purchasing apps for the device, but I assume it will not be an simple task. It will be a little difficult to add them after I have the device in my classroom. The best thing to do would be put a list together and get those installed by whoever sets the iPads up for us. I have a ton of apps on my own personal device that I have used before, so I have a good idea of what I would need in my classroom. To get the most out of these apps you will need a wifi connection.
So here is my list I what I am requesting and my personnel recommendations for anyone looking to use an iPad for video productions.
Celtx script: $9.99 – Celtx makes several video production apps. My favorite in their suite is the scriptwriting app. This allows you to write your screenplays in the correct format, and it can also be exported as a PDF or printed. Teaching scriptwriting is part of my curriculum, and this app will make that even easier. I don’t think I paid 9.99 for it when I purchased it, but screenwriting software on a desktop can run over $100 so this is definitely worth it.
iMove: $4.99 – iMovie for the Mac desktop is very easy to use, and the same can be said about the iOS version. I don’t plan on doing any complex editing so this will be fine.
FilmicPro: $4.99 – FilmicPro is a camera app. This app offers customizable recording settings that are not available in the built-in camera app.
Movie Looks: $1.99 – Red Giant makes professional video programs for video editors. This app allows to adjust the looks of your video for a fraction of the desktop programs.
Action Movie FX: Free – Action Movie FX is nothing but just plain fun. I am sure the use of this app in the classroom is limited, but it is such an entertaining app. This will assist in get students interested in video production. Action Movie FX allows you to record short scenes and then add realistic CGI effects, but be warned to get the most use out of this app you will need to do several in app purchases. I have purchased all but one of these upgrades.
I will be producing a video about using these iPad apps in the classroom and posting it with my instructional videos for iOS devices in the future. Please let your friends know about my videos and if you have any suggestions please let me know. I got the idea for these videos when I purchased my mother her first iPhone. I made her several videos showing her how to use her phone.
