This book provides critical commentary on key issues around virtual reality, using media technology as a tool to challenge perspectives for learning and understanding cultural diversities. With a focus on empathy, embodiment and ethics, the book interrogates the use of immersive technologies for formal and informal educational contexts. Taking a critical approach to discourses around emerging technology and learning, the book presents the idea that a new literacy is emerging and an emphasis on media and technology is needed in the context of education to explore and experience cultural diversities. Employing a personal reflexive narrative, the chapters highlight key issues through research and interviews with leading practitioners in the field. Understanding Virtual Reality will be of great interest to academics and students interested in the effects of immersive realities on the education experience, and to anyone keen on exploring the paradigm shift from entertainment to education.

This book provides critical commentary on key issues around virtual reality, using media technology as a tool to challenge perspectives for learning and understanding cultural diversities. With a focus on empathy, embodiment and ethics, the book interrogates the use of immersive technologies for formal and informal educational contexts. Taking a critical approach to discourses around emerging technology and learning, the book presents the idea that a new literacy is emerging and an emphasis on media and technology is needed in the context of education to explore and experience cultural diversities. Employing a personal reflexive narrative, the chapters highlight key issues through research and interviews with leading practitioners in the field. Understanding Virtual Reality will be of great interest to academics and students interested in the effects of immersive realities on the education experience, and to anyone keen on exploring the paradigm shift from entertainment to education.

It's tempting to skip over theory when you want to get on with the practice of video production. But understanding theory can actually give you the confidence to make good practical decisions and to produce higher-quality videos and films. This no-nonsense, straight-talking book helps you to grasp key theoretical ideas and shows how to use them in your filming projects. Exploring issues and ideas that will inform and enhance your work, Video Production builds skills and understanding from the very basics. The book is split into two halves, carefully building a foundation of theoretical knowledge before steering readers through a variety of production briefs. In particular, the book: * Clearly introduces the essentials of film, media and communication theory * Looks at a variety of film genres, from the drama short to magazine programmes * Pays close attention to the different demands of pre-production, production and post-production * Gives handy hints, tips and advice that show how to avoid common mistakes and pitfalls * Links with a companion website that offers resources such as examples of successful student projects, downloadable templates and career advice. Written by experts in an easy-to-follow, clear and comprehensive way, this book can be read cover to cover, or dipped into at crucial moments. Video Production is the ultimate guide for all students and novice film-makers.