It’s official – submissions are now being accepted for the 2014-2015 World of 7 Billion student video contest, back for it’s fourth year by popular demand from both students and teachers. PopEd is excited to offer this opportunity for high school students to not just explore what it means to have such a large population, but also to be solution-orientated as they consider the impact of an ever-growing population on current global challenges. For this year’s contest, students will be asked to take on one of three global challenges: wildlife loss, available farmland, or global education.
Past student filmmakers have enjoyed the chance to learn more about current and relevant topics happening around the planet. And many were intrigued by creating a message that would reach a large audience. As Skylar Lakso (Honorable Mention, 2013-2014) shared, she wanted to take part in a venture that could have an impact beyond her school. “It’s a realistic project where we could actually get it published and our innovation could impact many people.”
Past teachers have raved about the contest’s ability to link things happening in the news to the content they’re trying to teach in the classroom. Creating the film entries also requires students utilize important skills. As one teacher put it: “This is what educators and policy makers have in mind when they talk about 21st century skills. The project addresses collaboration, divergent/critical thinking, technology, communication (oral presentation and non-verbal), creation of a novel artifact, and peer critique/reflection (at least in my class).”
General World of 7 Billion Contest Details:
- Videos must be 60 seconds or less.
- All high school students, or the international equivalent, may participate.
- A total of $6,000 will be awarded to twelve student winners.
- Video entries must be received by Thursday, February 19, 2014.
Read the full Official Rules and Guidelines.
