subject: Popularity Of Stop Motion Animation In Education [print this page] Instead of using drawn or sketched characters, it uses ordinary and inanimate items such as clay and small toy bricks. For stop motion projects, these materials are shaped or formed into shapes and figures according to the needs and desires of the animation builder. And to bring these characters into life, several frames of images are captured in accordance to the change in position or movement of the character.
Why stop motion is popular in education and learning
There are several reasons why this type of instructional video or material is very popular for both the students and educators. And these include:
- This type of animation has been proven effective in improving the cognitive function of young childrens brain. Researchers and learning experts concluded that this type of animation or instructional video is best in helping develop the cognitive functions of the brain especially for young children or toddlers. This has made several animation software and programs popular not only for teachers but also for parents. According to these experts, stop motion makes it easy for children to recognize and remember each kind of action performed by the character. For example, the act of jumping or walking is much more stressed and visible with stop motion. Add a sound effect or audio tutorial, it would be best.
- This type of animation uses familiar and real-life materials. Unlike other types of animations or videos, the stop motion makes use of actual and familiar items for children. When you are creating an educational stop motion video, you can include a real pencil or a real eraser as characters and not those fake or drawn ones. Using real items creates a more vivid and eye-catching video compared to using cartoon drawings. This also improves the learning and analytical ability of the child.
- It is quite easy and simple to make. Creating a stop motion type of animation can be easy and simple. This is often probably one of the most important consideration that some teachers and educators love. Creating an educational video wont require you to scout for actors, search for elaborate costumes and props, or to spend on too many things. A simple camera and a functional educational software capable of producing stop motion projects would already be very good tools. Some animation programs are even simple enough for use of children themselves.
- You can focus on the teaching or learning aspect. Among the best reasons why a stop motion animation is popular for educators is that you can create a video or clip that focuses on teaching or learning and nothing else. With stop motion films, the film elements can be simplified. You can use specific characters or items, particular sound effects, and eliminate all other distractions that can divert the attention of the student away from the topic.
