Animation For Learning

The world we live in, childhood and the way we learn is changing rapidly in modern society and technological advances continue to reshape the skill sets necessary for students to succeed both in the classroom and in the workforce (Silva, 2008). Therefore it is important that we try to think of innovative ways to teach in order to meet these needs.

In recent years the animation tools that would have been expensive and unaccesible to schools are now more readily available and are being used by teachers as tools to encourage and develop childrens learning in a way that is not only fun, but effective. By using animation children develop skills competencies in:

• Story telling
• Visual communication
• Cognition, emotional, ethic and aesthetic aspects
• Observation and sensory aspects
• Concentration
• Problem-solving and innovative aspects   (VIA University College, 2013)

One particular product which we have been using to create an understanding of animation as a learning tool is ZU3D. Zu3D is currently being used in a number of schools promoting the use of animation to enhance learning in the creative curriculum (Edspire, 2011).

Zu3D stop-motion animation software has been developed to give children (and adults) of all ages the freedom to create amazing animated films quickly and easily, in school and at home. Combining an intuitive interface with stunningly powerful features. Educational & fun!

Through the initial story boarding process and the actual production of the animation, ZU3D can be used as a valuable literacy tool in helping children to develop a narrative structure. The ability to communicate information verbally and graphically can be viewed as a necessary skill that should be developed (Silva, 2008).

Children will also have a chance to practice good speaking and listening skills as you can also add narration to the animations, meanwhile the whole time developing their ITC skills (Edspire, 2011).

‘Technology and Engineering Teacher’ (2013) suggests The inclusion of a technical animation curriculum into secondary education provides numerous advantages for a learner. The use of a content-rich, activity-based curriculum and the addition of project-based learning activities, which include the use of multiple software applications, allow for an educational experience that prepares the learner… with a general skillset for future educational needs.

References

 Software Review- ZU3D. Available at: http://www.edspire.co.uk/year_2011/01/17/software-review-zu3d/

VIA University College. Animation as a Learning Tool. Available at:

http://www.viauc.com/schools-faculties/faculty-of-education-and-social-studies/exchange-programmes/Pages/animation-as-a-learning-tool.asp

http://zu3d.com

Silva, E. (2008). Measuring skills for the 21st century. Washington, DC: Education Sector. Available at: www.educationsector.org/usr_doc/MeasuringSkills.pdf