Digital Makerspace Fun!

The students have been exploring several of the digital tools that the library makerspace has to offer. Specifically, they have been learning how to use several photography and cinematography apps, as well as our new microphones and recording software in our two new recording studios. 

Students were given tips on how to take better pictures with their devices. They learned about the Rule of Thirds, and discovered how just by changing the way you take a picture (up high, down low, tilting the camera, etc.), they can become more interesting images. Then, they were able to edit and enhance their images using a free app called Snapseed. 

Here are some examples of their amazing photos:

They also tried out time-lapse recording on the free app, Hyperlapse, and stop motion movie making using the free app, Lego Movie Maker. The students worked really hard using both apps, and quickly discovered how patient you must be to be a movie maker using both techniques.

students setting up their device to record a timelapse of the traffic outside using Hyperlapse

Below is an AWESOME example of one of the stop motion movies that one of our Sappington 4th grade friends, Logan, made using the Lego Movie Maker app:

friends making stop motion movies using the Lego Movie Maker app

We also had many students interested in making short movies and movie trailers in real time using the app, iMovie. You can purchase iMovie for any Apple device by clicking here. Once again, the students found out that making a movie takes time, and it requires someone willing to stay behind the camera to play the very important role of the movie director. 

Some 5th graders from Mr.Wolf's class made a pretty amazing movie trailer! Check it out!

We also had our 2 brand new recording studios open to the students. Any student that chose to explore the recording studios were able to use our new Snowball microphones, and our new recording software, Voki.

students recording using our Snowball mics and Voki software

It's been a great couple of weeks, and we are having a great time using our new iPads to explore all the digital tools that the library makerspace has to offer!!