3-D video in the classroom

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Do you think that three dimensional video is only for multi-million dollar productions like James Cameron’s Avatar? Think again; 3-D video may soon start popping up in the classroom.

Faculty at Duke have already begun using 3-D videos as an instructional tool. The additional dimension allows videos to convey depth, essential for certain learning material.

"Most people think of 3-D as movies where things pop out and scare you. But it's not a gimmick if you're using the technology to elucidate something you can't see without that depth," said Center for Instructional Technology consultant Randy Riddle told Duke Today.

Riddle indentifies the increased ease associated with shooting 3-D videos—as well as the dramatic decrease in cost—as a reason for the increased presence of 3-D videos in non-conventional areas.

“If you wanted to shoot 3-D video a year ago, you would have had to buy a professional-level camcorder for $22,000. Now we have the capability to do it without a lot of hassle," said Riddle.

While we may be far away from bringing red and blue glasses to every class, there will likely be a tremendous increase in three dimensional instruction at Duke over the next few years.