A Creative Take
October 2, 2025 2025-10-06 12:14A Creative Take
Students expression through film
Whether students should be free to create films or movies is an issue that sparks debate. Filmmaking can enhance learning and develop skills quickly. It can also have an increased engagement effect and higher motivation. Concerns may arise regarding copyright issues and intellectual property.
“I think it’s great when schools let us do as much as we want and give us the ability to be creative freely,” said Deerfield Beach High School senior Brianna Barton.
If given freedom, students can benefit in many ways when making movies. They can express themselves and enhance their learning and creativity. Filmmaking can also assist in preparing prospective careers and aligning with educational goals in the far future. There are significant positives to giving students liberty over movies. Also, the possibility of developing problem-solving and technical skills grows with freedom. It exposes kids to various things used in the real world.
The argument against the whole idea is just as powerful. With all that freedom and unrestricted activity, students have a lot of freedom. This includes inappropriate, disruptive, and offensive content. This is partially why student filmmaking is done under adult supervision and oversight. Also, making films can take time and equipment, as resources. Schools are responsible for maintaining a safe learning environment for everyone, so there can be limits.
“It’s great to be able to work on your arts freely, but when it comes to films, some people can take it a little too far, too intense,” said DBHS senior Marissa Maxwell. “You still need to have many regulations to keep stuff appropriate.
For a balanced approach to the situation, many things need to be assessed. There needs to be clear guidelines and policies set by schools to allow students to work on filmmaking projects with limited freedom and responsibility. Students need access to the necessary equipment and training for their projects, and they should have mentors teaching them through filmmaking to set them on the right path.
Permitting student creativity and giving opportunities for self-expression are significant. It’s still important for schools to have a balance in filmmaking that provides guidance and support, but also ensures responsible and ethical use of the subject.
