Reading Week 6

Yes, I totally agree that computers give us access to better/more sound and video clips than we used to have. It is much easier to store a series of computer files, for film/sound clips, than it is to make a vhs tape of scenes for a lesson. The equipment is also much less bulky. However, here's Negative Nelly again, there are issues.
A vcr/dvd player with a TV is much more accessible for the whole class. Everyone can see it without a special projector, or enough computers for each individual (which is often not available). Secondly sound is a major issue. When using a tv or cd player one has much more control over the volume, with less loss of sound quality. I've used recordings, such as War of the Worlds (1932 Broadcast) both through my computer and on a cd player. The cd player was much more successful. You have control over where in the room it is located, the speakers are more powerful and if the server goes down it doesn't affect the playback. When I used the computer the speakers were poor, and at top volume over half the students couldn't hear it.

I don't believe online sources are really the best way to access sound and video. As we've mentioned in class before it is best to have audio/video clips downloaded to the computer to save time during class. I'd take that to another step and say burn it to a disc. You'll have better control.

I do/did have to provide my own cd player while the computer was provided, this was a small price to pay for convenience and control. The school does provide vcr/dvd players, but you can't count on being able to have it exactly when you need it, therefore (to guarantee it was there when I needed it) I brought in my own.