Gimp

Overview:

Gimp is a tool that is used for picture manipulation. Similar to Photoshop, this tool allows students to edit images and create new designs. Students have the opportunity to retouch images, create original artwork, and create high quality graphic design concepts.

Instructional Demo

https://watch.screencastify.com/v/QUJsBgBy8qULTpOVYyi3

Advice:

When using Gimp, as a teacher you can set parameters as to what you want students to create. This can be easily modified so students have realistic expectations when using the program. Advanced students could be encouraged to create their own original artwork or design concepts, whereas students who struggle can simply manipulate or enhance an existing picture.

This program is primarily for project-based learning, so teachers should construct a rubric for grading student performance.

Troubleshooting:

On gimp.org, there are plenty of tutorials to assist you on how to use this program. Here is a link to the recommended tutorials: https://www.gimp.org/tutorials/

Inclusion:

Gimp could be used in any classroom. The biggest challenge would be ensuring that students of any ability can use it. My suggestion would be to teach very basic functions for students who struggle--thereby allowing them to still manipulate the program. For advanced students, I would encourage exploration--so they can practice manipulating images. This program would probably be used best if you do a demo in front of the class on basic functions and then provide one-on-one support after.

Tips for Best Practice:

Gimp is the type of program that has many functions similar to Photoshop. I think this program would be best used in a technology or art classroom. This program also allows for a great deal of exploration on project-based learning opportunities for students to create logos for companies or even creating a unique piece of artwork.

Reflection

Overall, I really enjoy using Gimp in the classroom. This program pushes my students to use their creativity and ingenuity when creating their company logos, or when manipulating existing images. I would not recommend using this program until students are relatively familiar with their computers. A negative to this program is that it is not readily compatible with a Chromebook, which most students have. I also think it is easiest to learn how to use this program by spending a lot of time individually to create items and watching how to videos for specific items.

Feedback

Use the link provided to inform me of this program's effectiveness.

https://forms.gle/NnSDyQ9JRWE74RkW6