We have Canon ZR series cameras in both of our schools - they are compact,
work well and durable (one has even been dropped, though I wouldn't
recommend a test!).

As far as software, I am a believer in iMovie if you have access to Macs - a
"cleaner" and simpler interface than the new Windows version.  Movies export
to QuickTime which is more universal than Windows Media files....  Movie
Maker is OK and free with XP but a bit clumsy.... We are using it in the
middle school. I have also used MGI Videowave for Windows (comes with
Logitech Webcams or about $40 purchased separately). It's cheap but limited
- fine for getting used to the process.


Eric Hall
Technology Coordinator
Waterbury/Duxbury Schools
Waterbury, VT


> We are also about to purchase a camcorder, which we will use with our Macs.
> Does anyone have advice, warnings, and/or other information about best
> brands/models, and software to use with them, etc.?
>
> Christopher Kibbe, Principal
> Saxtons River Elementary School
>
>> From: Jeff Wallis <[log in to unmask]>
>> Subject: Re: Educational Pricing for Camcorders and Advice on Model to
>> purchase
>>
>> Before purchasing software you may want to check out Windows Movie Maker
>> 2.0.   This is a free download for Windows XP (version 1.x comes
>> installed).  It allows you to add titles, trasitions, credits, audio
>> tracks, title overlays, etc.  One possible drawback is that you can only
>> save the file as a Windows Media Video.  But you can also send it back
>> to the camera, then to a VHS.
>>
>> We have Pinnacle's Studio DV, but I think the new 2.0 version of
>> Windows Movie Maker is easier for kids to use and has the same
>> capabilities.
>>
>> We have a Canon ZR series camera - it works great and is easy to use.
>> It has a built in firewire port so all you need to purchase is a
>> firewire card and cable.  Many new computers come with firewire cards
>> built in as well.
>>
>> Jeff
>>

>>>>> [log in to unmask] 06/03/03 02:46PM >>>
>> We have just received a small grant from our PTO to purchase a digital
>> camcorder and basic software and accessories.  Given that we have the
>> summer to research, purchase, and then learn how to use the camera
>> before the kids return in the fall, I thought I'd ask all of you for
>> input on this decision.
>>
>> Based on information we collected several months ago, the camera we
>> were
>> considering was the Cannon ZR45 series.  We were advised to purchase a
>> tripod and microphone as accessories for use with students.  We are a
>> Windows platform environment, so we would use one of the Windows based
>> movie editing programs.  We are considering also purchasing Pinnacle
>> Software package that includes an editing program and a card/software
>> solution which allows conversion of analog video to digital.  This
>> would
>> allow us to include older clips into new movies we might make.  We
>> plan
>> to use the camera as part of a computer multimedia course we will
>> offer
>> next year.  I should also mention that we are a K-12 school, so
>> elementary students through high school student may end up using this
>> camera for various projects.
>>
>> Any recommendations on the items we are considering purchasing?  Also,
>> any recommendations on best prices on these items?  Phil, anyone else
>> with the State - does the State of Vermont have any contracts with any
>> reseller of this type of equipment?
>>
>>
>> Lisa Wright Garcia
>>
>> Technology Coordinator
>>
>> West Rutland School
>>
>> West Rutland, Vermont
>>
>> [log in to unmask]
>>
>> (802) 438-2288, ext. 299
>>