Making movies is no longer all about the Hollywood red carpet. Screen literacy is now a core skill alongside reading and writing.
With video content predicted to account for 80% of global internet traffic by next year, the Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) has launched MEDIA LAB, a free online resource for primary and secondary teachers, with practical, creative and tangible education experiences that can be used across the school curriculum, and from Kindy through to Year 10.
“AFTRS has developed our knowledge and resources over more than 40 years and we want to share this in a way that has a real impact on young Australians – to equip the next generation with the essential tools to inspire creativity and entrepreneurialism,” said AFTRS CEO Neil Peplow.
“We want to make sure that Australian primary and secondary students have the storytelling and technical skills to be part of this new world.”
AFTRS consulted with a range of teachers in developing the resources, which include lesson plans, student worksheets and video content to deliver learning on each topic, in either sequential or mix-and match format. The initial resources target skills in filmmaking, documentary, podcasting, stop motion and screenwriting.
Outreach to primary and secondary students is an essential component of the AFTRS five-year plan, Future Vision 2021, launched last year, which established that a priority for the School is to reach a wider and more diverse audience, and develop the next generation of screen storytellers.
The Australian Film Television and Radio School (AFTRS) is the nation’s leading screen and broadcast school that delivers future-focused, industry-relevant education, research and training.
Media Lab key features:
- Available from 10 April at medialab.aftrs.edu.au
- Free of charge to primary and secondary teachers and their students
- Specifically targeted at Australian teachers and students.
- Use as either sequenced or mix-and-match resources
- Stand-alone worksheets for in-class or homework exercises
- Australian examples that are copyright checked
- Instructional videos and FAQs
- Accessible nationwide through an online platform
Teacher feedback:
“Very easy to follow, simple, good online resource, relevant to students. It didn’t drag out the elements too much. The short activities kept the kids engaged but weren’t too hard to organise either.” – Haley, Years 9 & 10 Media Arts teacher
“I found the information great and students found this very engaging. The forms were very useful as handouts.” – Tammy, Year 7 Drama teacher
“This is brilliant – I now know what I’m doing with students in Term 3.” – Mira, Year 8 English teacher
“My students didn’t want to leave the classroom for lunch break!” – Rachel, Year 4 Science teacher