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The Mobile Film Classroom (MFC) represents a revolutionary way of teaching in the digital age. Conceptualized, designed and built by the Mary Pickford Institute for Film Education, MFC is a unique educational opportunity on wheels. The vehicle is a complete mobile digital production unit equipped with iMac workstations, digital video cameras, portable lighting and microphone kits, professional video and audio editing software, sound recording booth and DVD production equipment. Instructors guide students through the digital media creation process as they take part in every aspect of production, whether writing, filming, narrating or film and music editing.

Today’s youth speak a digital language. They are engaged and excited to learn through digital media. Digital media as an educational tool is immediate, relevant and current. Classes are designed to teach digital technology and media literacy with the goal of enhancing students' excitement for and enriching their ability to learn, while developing patience, encouraging social consciousness and emphasizing teamwork. Curriculum is designed for in-school elective classes or after-school programs and is based on project goals and grade level. Skills learned not only apply to students' daily lives - they also positively impact their educational and professional futures.

Since its inception in early 2006 the Mobile Film Classroom has served over 5000 Los Angeles area elementary, middle and high school students and developmentally disabled adults. All schools and students, no matter their socio-economic status or available resources, now have access to the same state-of-the-art digital media equipment and professional media instruction.

According to Mary Pickford Institute President Keith Lawrence, "Our idea was to even the educational playing field. The classroom's equipment and staff equals that of any professional or college setting in Los Angeles. By giving schools the opportunity to provide instruction that would otherwise be cost-prohibitive, we are able to contribute to the education of a large number of students within the community."

• MFC in action. [ English ]   [ Spanish ]

• Thanks to an LA MEDiA grant, MFC has taught at 18 Los Angeles middle schools.

• Students at LA's New Village Charter High School created this MFC video for Teen Week.

• Watch a Richard Merkin Middle School student discover his unique "voice" through iSight!

MOBILE FILM CLASSROOM #1 MOVES ON!

Our familiar orange digital production studio on wheels, fondly known as Mobile Film Classroom #1 (MFC1) is on the move and making new inroads in the So Cal community. The Mary Pickford Institute for Film Education (MPI) has donated the vehicle to the Mayor’s Office of the City of Los Angeles and is partnering with them in the Summer Night Lights program, an anti-gang initiative that keeps parks open after dark. Thanks to the able assistance of Dave Hampton, a globally recognized expert in the fields of audio recording, production, and studio design, MFC1 is being revamped to become a first rate, audio recording studio where kids, groups and families can record and produce their own music videos.