Using digital cameras and camcorders
Digital cameras and camcorders are becoming ever more popular with the general public for personal use. Advances in technology mean that they:
- are lightweight and increasingly easy to use
- can produce high quality results.
What role could they have in learning?
We explore here how you might use this equipment in the context of Sport and fitness disciplines to help learners:
- develop 'body awareness' so that they can refine and deepen their practice through the process of 'self-correction'
- evaluate their own progress.
We provide a step-by-step guide on how to use cameras in the classroom or sports hall.
"One learner who finds it difficult to 'stay in the moment' was quite shocked when she saw the tension in her shoulders in the photo. It has brought home to her that she needs to work at relaxing a lot more than she does."
Ruth, tutor, yoga.
"I used to think my left foot was trailing when I was in the pool. I ignored everything the tutor said and kept trying to put it right. When I saw myself on video, I was astounded to see that it was my right foot that was lagging behind."
Yvette, learner, swimming.
"I've been using a camcorder for years to help learners develop their karate practice. I wouldn't be without one."
Ray, trainer, karate.
"I thought digital photography might be a bit gimmicky, but it turned out to be very useful. I realised my posture had 'slipped'!"
Jan, learner, yoga.
"The camcorder is an absolute boon in swimming classes. It's the only way you can actually show learners anything about themselves."
Kim, tutor, swimming.
This resource relates to the themes Improving teaching and learning, Planning learning and reviewing progress, and to the theme and Benefits of e-assessment.