PE1_iMovie

The iMovie ’11 Essential Training on Lynda.com was a first for me. I have NEVER taken the time to complete software tutorials. Prior to being a Full Sail student, I was a total PC user – just because everywhere I have ever worked used PC’s. I had never used a Mac. Windows Movie Maker was my introduction to video editing and production. I was introduced to Movie Maker during a professional development session. After the initial introduction, it was months before I used Movie Maker. I think I misplaced my notes or something ridiculous. One day I finally decided I would just “go for it” like I have always done. I realized how easy it was, and I really developed a love for video editing.

I don’t recall which Full Sail assignment launched me into the depths of iMovie; however, the basic knowledge gained from working with Movie Maker, definitely gave me an understanding and foundational knowledge of what to expect and what I should be able to do.

Of course, participating in the iMovie Essential Training has strengthened my foundation with iMovie. I liken it to my experience with Microsoft Office products. Like so many, I never took a course, I learned from experience. When I became a teacher in 2004, I had to teach the software and prepare students for the Microsoft Office Specialist certification. So, I had to learn the textbook methods and key vocabulary.

As such, I understand the rationale for having us to complete the iMovie ’11 Essential Training after working with it. There is value in exploring new software and learning independently before having formal instruction.

From the iMovie ’11 Essential Training, it was great to gain clarity on importing video and pictures. I was extremely happy to find that importing pictures to iPhoto is as simple as dropping them in the icon on the dock. I also enjoyed learning how to mark video as favorite, rejected, etc., and I gained clarity on Events and Projects organizational system. I also appreciate the detail available for editing individual clips and how easy it is to isolate good footage and delete/trash unwanted footage.

Primarily, from the first sections of the training, I received instruction on basic iMovie features. The knowledge I gained will enable me to be more productive (and experience less frustration) when using iMovie. I also want this experience to be the beginning of me taking the time to utilize the resource in tutorials.

For my personal learning and in my professional practice, I need to network more and connect with people and resources more. I see a trend in my practice that transcends across the board. In all my work, I need to utilize resources, in order to be more effective and productive. I tend to walk the line between introversion and extraversion. I see where the introverted portion of my personality has formed a glass ceiling of sorts over my practice. It's time to breakthrough!