DIGIPENDENCE - declare yours!

Continuing its dedication to bringing animation to the classroom (previous post), Reallusion sponsored the annual Singapore Digital Media Awards (SDMA).

Inaugurated in June 1999, the Schools Video Awards (SVA) started with the aim of providing a platform for our students to express themselves creatively through the use of video. The 9th SVA (2008) is rebranded as the Schools Digital Media Awards (SDM Awards) to include media categories such as audio and animation. The SDM Awards aims to provide opportunities for teamwork, collaboration and the development of media literacy.

There are two competition divisions, one for students and one for teachers. Click here to learn more about the SDMA. Winning entries can be viewed here. Vist the gallery. Download free PDF resources (miscellanous worksheets).

I am very interested in the law and legal issues as well as crime and criminology. In fact, that along with journalism is what I am currently studying in school. My media production background is in live action film/video, and When I got into machinima, and also started learning about 3D animation, I started to think about how all that could be married together (Minerva Interactive).

There are a number of companies which recreate crime scenes for court cases using graphics and animation. One of the best is Scene Systems, an innovative company with the stated goal of “Our goal is to make 3D animated reconstruction available in every case where it could be beneficial.” They recently aquired the assets of Antics 3D, including at least one senior staffer.

By now, most people are familiar with the January 15, 2009Hudson River crash of US Airways Flight 1549 piloted by Captain, Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger and his First officer Jeffrey Skiles. Scene Systems has created a much-acclaimed accident reconstruction of the accident:

In replying to a YouTube comment on the video, Scene says “We plan to release these accurate reconstructions as and when major events occur.” There’s no doubt that such reconstructions are compelling, and not just to the general public. Scene says that there are six reasons why law firms should consider using animation:

1. Animation clearly and concisely represents the facts
2. Jurors remember 600% more information when presented visually
3. Animations suits the way most people assimilate information
4. Case information is organized coherently
5. Scientific accuracy puts the exhibit beyond dispute
6. Reduce costs, reduce witnesses, reduce litigation

Thanks to Phil Rice for the hat tip.