A Videodisc is a laserdisc (usually 12 inches in size) which presents
two essential features: large storage capacity and random access
capabilities. By presenting multiple sources of language in the
same place it is capable of providing the learner with an unprecedented
sense of immersion. Laserdiscs are a non linear medium which allows
access to any portion or single image on the disc, in any order
or sequence. They provide many different types and degrees of
interaction. Good Videodiscs allow for simulations and exploration
of environments, making language learning highly experiential.
If we try to compare the Videodisc with the VCR we will find that on top of the regular functions of a VCR (play, stop, forward, rewind, sound on or off), videodiscs provide the following features:
instant access to any single frame (54,000 on each side) and/or
video segment; this gives the user great manipulability.
freeze frame that allows the class to work on descriptions
of scenes and body language.
play in slow motion; making it easier to focus on the image.
Thanks to the flexibility of the Videodisc teachers can create
many situations that were impossible before. Since the material
on the disc can constantly be rearranged it allows the teacher
to access the many layers of the language. Videodiscs may contain
material from the pure linguistic to the communicative; from the
non-verbal to the visual. This allows teachers to cover many different
learning objectives using the same material.
The students can also assume control of the activity by manipulating
the Videodisc. They can be asked to explore a place, a topic,
a person's life, relationships, etc. They can also create and
present ads, collections (of view, people, objects, sounds, etc.),
whole new dialogues using the same characters and scenes presented
on the disc, and short video clips based on the topic under study.
Students can also play different roles; they can be turned into
photographers, investigative reporters, collectors, tourists,
cameramen/women, treasure hunters, critics, etc.
Videodiscs are an extremely useful analytical and observational
tool that will help students to further develop their communicative
skills. Since they combine motion video, stills, texts, graphics
and two audio tracks, the students will be immerse in the language:
they can watch, listen, read and thus develop several language
skills at the same time. This technology allows teachers to bring
into the classroom many live examples of the language under study
thus multiplying the sources of authentic language in the learning
process.
[Cassette Player][Tv and Vcr][Satellite Tv][Videodisc Player][Lcd Panel][Computers]
[Learning Centers] [Selecting The Learning Centers][Designing Tips]
[Making It Happen][Main Page]