Dvolver

Dvolver: Moviemaker

Teenagers nowadays are being exposed to various graphics and animations, mostly via television and internet. As a teacher, why don't we take this opportunity to make our teaching interesting and most importantly, to let students enjoy the process of learning. One way that could link graphics and animations with teaching English in school is through a tool called as 'Dvolver'. It is an online software that allows users to make customized animated videos. Dvolver's website has simple layout and is very easy to use. This application does not require user to sign up to any particular account, therefore it is free of charge. To begin with, go to Dvolver's website: http://www.dvolver.com/live/movies-776638  or simply type 'Dvolver' in google, and choose the first option that comes out in the list. Right away, you'll see a link to 'make a movie', which is the first step toward your animated movie. Then, you will be given several lists of 'background' and 'sky'.

There are about 11 choices of background, and each background has its own description (location, language, population, activities, mission and etc) . After selecting the background, you need to choose 'sky' for your background. Having 12 choices of skies, you are allowed to choose any sky that you like.

Next, you need to select a plot for your scene. There are 4 plots available. See below: 

Move on to the next step, you will be given several choices of characters. Each character has its own details/descriptions such as name, occupation, skills, language and etc. 

Once you have selected your characters, the next button will bring you to dialogue boxes or character's lines.  Add up to three lines for each character. The limit for one line is 100 text. 

Finally, select the music for your scene. By clicking on the options, you can preview the sound and its recommendations for use. After making you selection, you will have the options to add a new scene , or to finish the movie. You can make up to there scenes for you Dvolver animation. By choosing the same styles and characters, your video will appear as a continuous scene. 

 



 

This tool can be used in classroom with your students.

The advantages of this tool are :

 

1. Student can develop their creativities.

2. A wonderful way to practice writing skill and at the same time having fun.

3.Have ownership value.

4.Easy to use.

5.Free of charge.

6. This tool involves a lot of visuals and graphics, so it may engage students with this activity.

 

 

 

However, there are some limitations as well. For example:

1. Some may find the characters and animations are boring (because of having no expressions).

2. Some characters may not suitable for kids or young learners (inappropriate characters).

3. This tool requires good internet access. (It is impossible to be done in school which has no or limited internet access).