Using Presentation Tools (PhotoStory 3) in the World Languages Classroom

PhotoStory3 is an easy-to-use free download that allows you to create photo slideshows with movie effects, music, and narration.  You can edit the photos and audio right in the program, and output the video for use on the web.

Using Comic Strips (ToonDoo) to Teach Foreign Languages

ToonDoo is a cool, comic-creating tool from Jambav, a fun site for kids. Jambav is devoted to creating a unique array of free and customizable online games of educational value for children of all abilities. ToonDoo was the happy result of brainstorming session that was aimed at creating a new way of expression for those who do not have the talent to draw.

Using Picasa to Facilitate Teaching in World Language Classrooms

Picasa is an image editing software from Google that helps you organize, edit, and share your photos. It’s free, and easy to use and works on both PC and Mac.  The program is free and has many features that you’d typically have to use an advanced image editor such as Photoshop in order to make those same changes without Picasa.

Flip Cameras for World Languages

Flip video cameras are a useful tool in language classes as they are extremely easy to use and fairly inexpensive. With a class set of flip cameras, students can interview each other, perform skits in the target language, create their own “commercials” or music videos and much more. In order to produce a “professional” video, students will work on their project from storyboarding to rehearsal and finally to filming.

Using dotSUB to Share Your Videos with Your Own Subtitles

DotSub is a free program that allows you to upload, transcribe, translate and share your own videos in multiple languages.  You can easily bring in video content for use in dotSub by linking to any video in YouTube.  This is a great tool for new learners as they can easily switch between the English subtitles and the subtitles in the target language.