Educators' perspectives on the utilization of additional material on DVDs to enhance the teaching of film study

The aim of this study was to gather information on whether or not the director’s commentary feature on a DVD could develop teachers’ Film Study knowledge and skills. This mini-dissertation was directed by the following research question: can the additional information on DVDs enhance teachers’ knowledge and potential for effective teaching of Film Study? In an attempt to answer the above question a literature review was conducted to establish the importance of Professional Development and Film Study. The director’s commentary feature was then investigated as a possible development resource. By means of a qualitative Case Study that used an open-ended questionnaire and focus group interviews, data was collected from nine respondents from two different East Rand High Schools. These findings were analysed, coded and written up. The literature study also incorporates a discussion on three different types of literacy, Film Study and Film Theory. This led to the director’s commentary feature being presented as a development resource for Film Study teachers. Research indicates that Film Study is viewed as important and is valued as a part of the South African Language curriculum. This research recognises that there is a need to develop Film Study teachers in South Africa. The director’s commentary feature found on DVDs was provided as a possible solution as a Film Study development resource. Literature findings state that a director is the person responsibility for a film’s decision making process. This highlights the importance of the director and the value of the director’s commentary. However, field research could not generate a definite result some respondents found the commentary useful, whereas others did not. Whilst certain conclusions can be made regarding the director’s commentary feature, literature and field research did not correlate. Thus, the director’s commentary feature as a Film Study development resource is open for further exploration.Mrs. Catherine van der Merwe Mr. David Robinso