Video Cassette
From SPARK
Today, the most popular video cameras use 8mm or mini DV tapes. These cameras can be hooked up to a VCR and the recording transferred to VHS tape. Computers can also be used to edit the movie and save to VHS tape or some other media such as Video cassettes or DVDs.
Many Christian videos are available in several languages. The most popular video is the Jesus video which is available in over 850 languages. One of the most popular videos dubbed into minority languages is the Luke video.
Considerations
| Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|
| Can be relatively inexpensive | Heat and humidity |
| Can be re-used | Can be easily erased |
| Popular | Visual literacy required |
| Permanent sequence | |
| An entire series of tapes about a single story is possible |
Note: The video cassette recorder needs to be compatible with the appropriate video format. For example European video tape formats (PAL/SECAM) are not compatible with the USA video tape format (NTSC). Most USA VCRs do not play PAL/SECAM tapes.
Before using a video among a minority people group it might be helpful to answer these questions to your satisfaction:
- Has this people group been exposed to moving pictures or video?
- How will video be perceived?
- Will it be understood as a representation of reality or only as make believe?
- How will extra information in the video that isn’t expressly described in Scripture be perceived?
- Will the background music and sound effects distract from the message?
For additional guidelines see Shell Video Manual
