Short films have emerged as potent tools in the pursuit of holistic education, introducing students to socio-emotional learning and inculcating life skills
In the continually evolving education system, the quest for innovative approaches to ensure comprehensive development at every learning stage remains a priority. The objective is to foster a profound connection within students, deepening their understanding of themselves and their societal roles. In this pursuit, short films emerge as powerful tools, introducing students to socio-emotional learning (SEL) and imparting essential life skills.
Traditional pedagogical models typically present facts and theories in a classroom setting, followed by practical sessions demonstrating the application of these theories. However, the nuanced experience of emotions related to the subject often remains unexplored, limited to the pursuit of a predefined result. Short films prove potent in enabling students to engage with emotions, cultivate empathy, and develop relationship skills, fostering long-term growth mindsets. The process of viewing and creating short films also brings self-awareness and self-management to the forefront.
As a medium, short films distinguish themselves as one of the most powerful forms of communication. They allow practitioners to simultaneously experience audio-visual, read-write, and kinesthetic forms of learning, transforming the experience into a deeply personal memory rather than a mere task. The utilisation of short films to address social issues further enhances their impact and effectiveness.
The cultivation of socially responsible citizens in both the present and future is imperative, involving a critical understanding of individual rights, responsible resource use, sensitivity, and an unwavering commitment to equality. Creating short films compels learners to introspect, connect with their surroundings, demonstrate compassion towards experiences not their own, and cultivate sensitivities when working with subjects, treating them with due respect. Taking a cause to a broader audience through short films allows for the powerful dissemination of stories that need to be told.
It fosters the integration of diverse perspectives on a social issue, compelling students to collectively make decisions aligned with their shared goals. This collaborative approach not only deepens comprehension but also establishes a cohesive team structure. It incuclcates a sense of community and teamwork, imparting valuable life skills.
Short films are a great enabler of creativity, allowing learners to find engaging ways to tell a story. They support individual voices while making the overall experience personal in creation and collective in viewing. The stories created, characters enacted, or engaged in making the film become an emotional journey, imprinting lifelong collective wisdom.
Additionally, short films serve as mirrors reflecting the intricacies of real-life challenges. By presenting relatable characters grappling with adversity, ethical dilemmas, or personal growth, these films become catalysts for developing resilience and problem-solving skills. Witnessing on-screen struggles prompts students to reflect on their decision-making processes and consider the consequences of their actions. Short films thus become invaluable tools for instigating thoughtful self-reflection, essential for character development and life skills growth.
In conclusion, the art of teaching finds a powerful companion in short films. This medium enables holistic learning, making learners aware of personal emotions and inspiring them to convert those into thought-provoking narratives. Educators can utilise short films to create discourse around challenging subjects, turning them into a language of their own. Properly crafted short films bring forth local stories to a global audience, making the effort part of a larger goal. Creating these films also serves the purpose of practising art and craft for a larger, collective purpose beyond self-expression.
(The writer is the founder of Friday Fiction Films; views are personal )
