How Digital Formats Are Changing Fiction Writing @ Big Think

http://bigthink.com/ideas/20970

About the Video

This video is from the website BigThink.com. And as you can see, it presents an interview about 'How Digital Formats Are Changing Fiction Writing'. The interviewee in the video is  Bret Easton Ellis, a novelist who talks about his idea on how digital book and ipad change the way people write and read. According to him, since the computer appeared, digital has been a trend and culture for writing or reading. 

Good points

• In my opinion, this video not only provides learners with an idea on the influence of digital formats, but also offers a chance for practicing listening.
• As the video is actually an interview, showing real people's opinions and ideas, to some extent, the material is authentic. 
• A transcription is provided below the video, which helps learners follow more easily.

Suggestions on usage

1. As an 'idea bank', the website 'BigThink.com' stores plenty of great thoughts from various people. Based on this point, this website provides numerous examples for both teachers and learners to watch or read according to their own interests.
2. Considering the video presented here, I think it can be used as a listening task, like 'gap filling' exercises. 
3. As the video is a little bit long, I think it is better to use an extract to listen or watch in class. Teacher can leave the rest part for Ss to watch after class. Since the video is not that interesting and attractive, it would be better, if it is used in the middle of a class.

Limitations

1. Require learners with high level proficiency.
2. The video itself is a little bit long and boring, so it is not suitable for motivating.
3. Internet access and multi-media facilities are required.