Video Creation Made Simple

Take a look at this free video creation app, it's already helping thousands of students tell their stories.

Whether you're using a computer or mobile device, Animoto can help you and your students create stunning videos.

Have students check out Animoto for free video creation.

The days of complex editing software are over. Well… that's not exactly true. Complex editing software does exist, and serves a purpose for many professionals. But it's no longer a requirement that you shell out hundreds of dollars and spend countless hours learning new technology to create your own multimedia project. You can do it all easily and inexpensively (or for free) with Animoto.

I encourage you to take a look at Animoto for Education to see how other educators are currently using this tool. Take the time to watch an example video or two; you'll likely find it inspiring!

Here are a few ways you can use this innovative tool:

• Create event showcases for ongoings in your classroom or school. Create a short video to promote a school event, or as a recap summarizing what happened. TIP: You may be able to use the recap video as a promotion for next year as a way to encourage others to join in the fun.
• Using digital photographs, create a mosaic slideshow of student work. Create one video for the class to share with parents, or have students create their own videos individually.
• Near the beginning of the school year have students publish icebreaker videos. They can share a few photos of themselves, their families, or what they did over summer vacation. Build them in the same account so they are all in one place. TIP: This is a great way for you to learn students' names — put the videos on a loop while at home or do a quick review before heading to class Monday morning.
• Animoto has an entire program for non-profits. Show students a few example videos, and then have them split into groups and develop their own public service announcements for their own favorite causes.

How do you envision using this tool with students? Leave me an idea as 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.