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September 15, 2001
Web Animation: Learning in Motion (cont'd)
Putting It Together: Getting Animation to the Web
Placing animated GIFs on a Web page is identical to placing a GIF or any other image you'd put on your Web site-simply embed the file in a standard HTML tag. If you're embedding Flash animation into your Web site, however, this can be more complicated. If you hand-code your Web site using HTML, consult the Flash program manual, which contains the necessary text strings and code to accomplish this. There also are tutorials available at the Flash Support Center on Macromedia's Web site (see Animation Share-ware and Tutorials, page 42). Or, if you want to avoid HTML programming altogether, Macromedia DreamWeaver is a Web site editor that works seamlessly with Fireworks, Director, and Flash to automatically insert animation into a Web page.
Start Small, but Think Big
Classroom animation has never been easier to accomplish, but it still demands considerable time to learn. Keep in mind an important tip, borrowed from the Constructivists: start small. Begin by creating simple animated GIFs. For instance, two frames that explore the structure of an object work well (frame 1: the human body in simple silhouette; frame 2: the skeletal or circulatory system). But think big: plan to build on initial successes each time a project is repeated-new student animators can begin where others left off. Encourage those students with an aptitude and interest, and enlist their help during study halls and down time to assist in file management, back-ups, importing and exporting, and other "housekeeping" chores. Collaborate with colleagues to build support and generate interest. Finally, post student work to the Web to get the word out.
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