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The Sparky Awards at Penn State



The Sparky Awards

The Sparky Awards is an international student video contest, created by SPARC, that any student at Penn State can enter. Participating is a rewarding experience that also promotes open content and information sharing.

From http://www.sparkyawards.org/details/index.shtml

"The Sparky Awards challenges you to illustrate in a short video presentation what you see as the value of sharing information. Use your imagination to suggest what good comes from bringing down barriers to the free exchange of information."

Quick Facts

  • The theme of the contest is "The Value of Information Sharing"
  • Videos must be no longer than 2 minutes
  • Deadline for submissions is December 6th, 2009
  • The Winner will receive a check for $1000 plus a "Sparky Award" statuette.
  • The Runner Up and People's Choice Award Winner will each receive $500.

The Sparky Awards at Penn State

The Sparky Awards at Penn State is collaborative effort between Digital Commons, the University Libraries, the College of Communications, Penn State Public Broadcasting (WPSU), and, of course, SPARC.

In addition to the Sparky's own awards, the best entries from Penn State will receive other great benefits including:

  • A special showing at a catered event at University Park in Spring 2010
  • Special prizes such as gift certificates to the Computer Store
  • Being featured on WPSU's On-Demand channel which can be viewed via Comcast Cable's On-Demand service across a 5-state region
  • A chance to be featured at the Penn State Student Film Festival
Submitting Your Entry

You can submit your entry at the Digital Commons website.

FAQ

Why would I want to create a video for the Sparky Awards?

  1. This is an international video competition. Besides being very cool if you won, it would be a great resume builder.
  2. It's a good cause. Open information sharing is a critical part our society, especially as technology becomes an ever greater part of our lives. The Sparky Awards website says it best:
    The Internet gives new meaning to the notion that, by sharing ideas, we build a better understanding of the world around us. If you use YouTube or Wikipedia, exchange gaming tips on the Internet, or have a blog, you probably well understand the value of sharing information, ideas, and knowledge.
    Sharing can also be a vital tool in helping to address complex problems that challenge society - like disease, hunger, global warming, and economic disparity. The sharing of ideas gives us ways to discover, collaborate, and create in unprecedented ways.
  3. If one of your classes already has a video assignment, your entry could serve double duty. Talk to your professor, and point them to this page.

How can I get involved?
Submission guidelines can be found here: http://www.sparkyawards.org/details/index.shtml

Who can enter?
Any student from any major at Penn State can enter.

What is the deadline for submissions?
December 6th, 2009.

How can I get help producing my video
Digital Commons is available at every campus and can help you produce your video. They also have special workshops designed specifically to help you win the Sparky Awards.

Media Tech Services (MTSS) at University Park will allow you to borrow video cameras. You can also borrow a Flip Mino HD video camera from the Digital Commons at most Commonwealth campuses. Be sure to call ahead to determine availability.

Why would I want to submit my entry at the Digital Commons website, and not just directly to the Sparky Awards website?
You can absolutely submit your entry directly to SPARC here. By submitting it to Digital Commons, you gain access to additional prizes and other benefits described above. We'll also host the video for you, and will take care of submitting it to SPARC for you.

I am an instructor. How might I integrate this contest into my coursework?
SPARC has produced a Guide for Educators to help you get started. You can also contact Digital Commons staff to get ideas and discuss strategies for effective integration.*