Abstract:

The paper deals with the use of the GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) method animations in several of scientific subjects (particularly in physics, biology, chemistry and mathematics) and in learning of informatics. The paper describes computer modeling focusing mainly on animation and simulation – their comparison, advantages and disadvantages and practical use in lessons in different subjects and its use and occurrence in Open Educational Resources (OER). Subsequently the GIF animation, one of the phenomena of today's young people is discussed. The GIF animation can be used not only as an entertaining element (according to the investigation as it is seen by most pupils), but also as an opportunity for computer-aided or project learning. In addition to already existing examples of animation the creation of GIF animation is presented in the paper – two types of stop-motion animation using the freeware program GIMP will be described. The second part of the paper summarizes the results of case study carried out at selected secondary school. The subject of research investigation is to find out the attitude of pupils to GIF animations in real life and in education. The attitudes of pupils were investigated using the short questionnaire completed by all pupils of selected school. The pupils were subsequently taught by making animations in the informatics lessons. The pupils first tried to find GIF animation suitable for learning and then they created their own simple educational animation. The resulting animations of the pupils as well as teachers observations of the lesson are presented in the paper too.

Keywords:

Education, Didactics of informatics, GIF, Animation, OER.