C-Span's StudentCam

What Political Issues Matter to You?

http://studentcam.org/

ABOUT THE COMPETITION
(After you read about the competition, read our ideas for GETTING STARTED.)

Read an article about our 2006 StudentCam winners from USA Today.

View winning videos from C-SPAN's 2006 StudentCam Video Contest.

Watch an interview with two 2006 StudentCam faculty advisors.

WHAT IS "C-SPAN StudentCam"? C-SPAN StudentCam is an annual documentary competition that encourages students to think seriously about issues that affect our communities and our nation. C-SPAN StudentCam invites students to identify a current political topic of interest and produce a short (up to ten minute) video documentary which creatively explores an issue while integrating C-SPAN programming.

WHAT CONTENT SHOULD MY VIDEO INCLUDE? Video documentaries may include different elements-i.e. straight documentary, interviews, entertainment, promotional, news report, magazine style, or public service, but must also include C-SPAN programming. Limited use of copyrighted material would be permitted in an entry so long as it is a lawful or so-called "fair" use, and so long as such use does not overwhelm the contribution of the student(s). In addition to creatively exploring a current political topic of interest, successful entries will also follow C-SPAN's editorial principles by giving appropriate weight to opposing views of the chosen topic. The videos in this competition must also incorporate clips of C-SPAN programming.

HOW CAN I OBTAIN THE C-SPAN FOOTAGE? In order to find the content you need, check the C-SPAN schedule online or sign up to receive C-SPAN Alert, a daily email with up to date programming information. These resources will help you identify air dates and times of programs or events related to your issue. Once you have identified a program you think you might be able to use, make a copy when it airs. C-SPAN-produced programming is copyright cleared to copy (in either analog or digital forms) for use in educational applications like StudentCam. However, if the program you need has already aired, you may obtain a copy from the C-SPAN Archives.

WHAT MEDIA FORMAT CAN I USE? VHS or DVD.

WHAT IS THE VIDEO TIME LIMIT? Up to 10 minutes in length.

WHO CAN COMPETE? Middle school students (grades 6-8) and high school students (grades 9- 12) in the United States as individuals, or teams of students may create and submit entries. Teams are limited to 3 students. Videos must be the original work of students, however, teachers may provide guidance and critiques. Teachers of top winners will receive digital media equipment for their schools.

HOW WILL THE VIDEOS BE JUDGED? We recognize that students have varying degrees of access to video production equipment and encourage all to apply! Entries will be judged on the following criteria: success in capturing the contest's themes; quality of expression, use of C-SPAN programming, inclusion of multiple viewpoints, and creativity.

WHAT IS THE DEADLINE? Entries must be received in the C-SPAN offices by 5:00pm ET on Friday, March 30, 2007.

WHEN WILL THE PRIZE RECIPIENTS BE ANNOUNCED? Tuesday, May 8, 2007.

WHAT ARE THE PRIZES? Multiple cash prizes of $250, $500, $750, and $1,000, will be awarded in both middle and high school categories; one Grand Prize of $3,000 will be awarded to the best overall entry.

WHERE DO I SEND MY ENTRY?
C-SPAN "StudentCam" Video Competition
c/o C-SPAN Classroom
400 N. Capitol St., NW
Suite 650
Washington, DC 20001

WHAT DO I NEED TO INCLUDE WITH MY ENTRY? You must submit an official entry form with your video. Download the entry forms and read the complete Contest Rules here.

HOW CAN I OBTAIN ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS I STILL HAVE ABOUT THE CONTEST? Review the Getting Started page. If you still have questions, contact C-SPAN Classroom at educate@c-span.org or between 8:30am-5:30pm ET at 202-626-4858.

http://studentcam.org/