Creating simple animations

[radhak]

Looking for easy solutions.

(a) what is the easiest way (or tool) to animate an image? Eg, I'd like to animate this image into a rotating sphere (oval would do too), with a brief message (eg 'Data Center') along the 'equator' of the sphere that also goes around.

(b) how do i animate some math explanations?

eg, to explain basics like mathematical equations :

x - y = 10 becomes x = 10 + y

here I'd like to see the 'y' move from the original position to sit next to the 10 across the = sign, slowly enough for a child to follow.

(c) how do I capture any computer procedure (happening on a monitor) into a small animation that could be played back. eg : how to assign specific keyboard actions to MS-Word Commmands.

[pelligrini]

Camtasia studio would handle (c) maybe just their Snagit program. there's probably a bunch of others too.

[RayintheUK]

There are a few others here.

Ray

[warrenp]

Hey Radhak,

Are you interested in the final product or just learning how to do it from a tech perspective?

Warren

[radhak]

I want to be able to do this myself - to create learning material for elementary school kids (mine included).

And of course, it should be fun too, hopefully !

Thanks Erik and Ray - I am still exploring what you pointed out.

[warrenp]

Radhak,
Sorry it took me so long to respond. A GREAT! program is Ulead Cool 3D. Relatively inexpensive and easy to use. I can give you some pointers if needed. And the way it works should be real instructional for the kids if you like.

I use it all the time for simple animations and I have other software at my disposal.

If the budget allows, consider the Studio edition.

Warren