Using Internet Content Effectively
Multimedia is more than just a way of dressing up a project. It is a way of using multiple information channels to communicate very effectively. (See page 68.) The Internet provides you with many multimedia resources for your projects.
Online Clip Art
The term “clip art” comes from the previous century, when books full of general illustrations were published. These drawings were meant to be cut out and used wherever an illustration might be needed. Today, search engines allow you to use topic keywords to find clip-art graphics, in the same way that you search for information. When using online clip art, remember the following:- Many clip-art sites are businesses that charge for their drawings. Other sites are maintained by individuals who offer their content for free.
- Some free sites are paid for by pop-up advertisements that may infect your computer with spyware or a virus. Often, these use deceptive layouts and links to trick you into clicking. Be careful when using such sites.
- Free sites may not always observe copyright laws, but you are still responsible for the ethical and legal matters concerning the images you use. (See page 267.)
Tip: Some search engines allow you to upload an image and search the Web for others like it. This can help you find the original source or something similar.
Your Turn Practice searching for images online, using both keywords and images. Considering a recent or current project, how would each way of searching be helpful?
Online Photos and Videos
Sites like Wikimedia.org, Flickr.com, and YouTube.com can be good sources of photos and videos for your projects. Just be sure that what you borrow is from the “creative commons” area. (See page 267.)
Government sites like NASA.gov are also good sources of media. Media created by government organizations are in the “public domain” (see page 267), so you can use them for free, but be sure to credit the source. Some media on government sites may belong to a third party. Check for a copyright statement on the Web page.
Online photos and videos can help your projects in two distinct ways:
- Illustrate your reports, stories, and other works. For example, a photo from NASA.gov could illustrate your report about a new space program.
- Inspire new projects. Sometimes just browsing online photos can give you an idea for a poem, story, or other project.
Your Turn Make a how-to video. Brainstorm for a topic you know how to explain. Plan your demonstration, practice it, and record it. Then share your video on a public site or your school’s Web site and spread the word via social media (see pages 269–290).