On Wednesday morning, April 18, 2012, immediately after the conclusion of an inspirational opening 
ceremony to FDIC 2012, classroom sessions commenced. Among them was “The Future of Fire Training” with outgoing International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) President Eddie Buchanan.
Held in Room 120-122, Buchanan offered a nearly packed house an opportunity to get a first-hand look at some of the newest innovations in personal audio and video production that will forever change the way training and videos are produced, putting the tools right in the palm of the firefighter.
“’The Future of Fire Service Training’ is about showing instructors how to meet the changing needs and expectations of their students related to content delivery and technology. Students were exposed to technology in the school systems, and they bring that experience with them to the fire department.”
Buchanan mostly focused on the iMovie Smartphone application, which, for just $4.99, allows any user to create a near professional looking and sounding video experience practically in the palm of his hand.
He also gave the students pointers on the do’s and don’ts of postproduction, which includes how the videos are presented.
“Remember, it is better to make three five-minute videos than one 15-minute video. This keeps the files small and helps the learning style of today’s adults with crisp, quick bits of using.”
Buchanan summed the goal of his class as hoping to instruct the fire service’s present members with money-saving and work-efficient information for the future.
“In this class, we looked at affordable, consumer grade gear used to capture video, and actually produce a brief video training segment right there in the classroom.
“We’ll outline the topic, shoot and edit it, right there on the spot. It allows the participants to gain confidence in incorporating such technology into their training toolbox.”
