Using data to tell stories – A Microsoft ITN InnoVid

In 2003 I had just completed the Learning and Teaching Scotland Masterclass Programme. At the time this was a three day residential where I was given a laptop and provided with training on how to become an ambassador in ICT. On reflection the experience gave me so much classroom confidence that I consider it to be career changing.

As part of the programme I was invited along to my first Scottish Learning Festival (then SETT) for the annual Masterclass meal and CPD sessions.  Again I found this experience career training.

There were two keynote speakers that year that really influenced my practice. The first, is now good friend, John Davitt and the second was David Warlick (who I am still yet to meet).

I remember during David’s keynote him explaining to the audience how it was possible to use data and ICT to tell stories. He demonstrated gathering earthquake data from the USGS website and importing it into excel to create his very own plate tectonic map. I’ve repeated variations of the exercise 10’s of times with classes since that time and recently re-produced the idea as a Innovative Teacher InnoVID.

I hope you like it (embed below):

You can access other videos produced by UK innovative teachers over on the Innovative Teachers website.