3 Free Video Editing Tools for the Classroom

Would you like to create stunning videos with your students? It's easier than you might think, and these free video editing tools for the classroom will help you get the job done.

I've evaluated hundreds of free tech tools for teachers and students over the last 7 years, and these three video editing tools each get a big thumbs up. Explore each tool a little on your own to see if one meets your needs better than the rest. In some cases, you may want to let students choose their favorites. Students always appreciate options and might like the chance to pick out the tool that they like the most.

WeVideo allows you to create a free 2-minute video every month. The editing tools are simple and easy to use, but my favorite part is the ease of publishing. With the click of a few buttons you can upload your finished video to many different sites (Vimeo, WeVideo, YouTube, DropBox, Facebook, Twitter, Google Drive, and DailyMotion). In my book, this makes WeVideo the #1 choice if your main goal is to share your work with others. However, the paid plans for both individuals and educators are on the pricey side when compared to other options. Take a look at this quick video to learn a bit more about WeVideo:

Your students will love exploring and creating with these free video editing tools for the classroom. Let us know which your favorite is in a comment below.

Animoto has already helped thousands of students tell their stories with original videos. While there is no free version for individuals, you can apply to receive a free educator subscription. This allows you and fifty students to have full access to Animoto for free! For a little more on how you might use Animoto in the classroom, check out this article and this training video.

Google Hangouts is a free tool for video calls and broadcasts. However, you can also use Hangouts to record and edit video with YouTube's free video editing software. This tool would be perfect for conducting video interviews, or producing a live broadcast that you'd like to record, edit, and publish for viewing later on. To learn more about this process, take a look at this video training session, Recording and Editing Your Google Hangout on Air Session.

Which of these tools caught your eye? How do you plan on using video creation tools with your students? Let me know your ideas in a comment on this article.

Kimber Thompson is a Lead Moderator for SimpleK12 webinars and a Contributing Editor for SimpleK12.com. She writes frequently about education topics, and is passionate about tools and techniques that inspire young learners. You may reach her with ideas and comments at editor@simplek12.com.