I’ve
taught every age group from Kindergarten to College and know firsthand the
effect that good media can have in getting a student excited about learning. I’m
also aware of the fear that many people have about letting a movie, TV show or
video game serve as a weak substitute for quality instruction. But if a teacher
or parent chooses and uses their educational media well then it becomes a
powerful tool.
I
believe the most effective place for educational media is in the initial entry
into a subject matter. The analogy I like to use is the one you see in the title
of this post. When a subject is presented using the best techniques offered by
entertainment media then it entices the student to explore the riches that are
waiting. And the opposite is true - if a subject matter is not presented well
it loses any attractiveness and looks like something just to get lost in.
As
a classroom teacher I enjoyed every chance to use good educational media to
help draw students into the subject I was covering, most often creating that
media myself. As a filmmaker it is my goal to produce the most engaging and
entertaining educational experience possible. I think the best argument I can
offer is this. We have had storytellers (entertainers) since the beginning.
These gifted people have always had our eyes, ears and hearts. Why not use the
same tools and talents to give our children the things we believe is most
important – a good education?
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