In an effort to spread the word about information sharing, the Digital Commons, University Libraries, College of Communications, WPSU and SPARC are all sponsoring a local video contest. Based on the theme of “The Value of Information Sharing”, an entrant’s mission is to create a sub-two minute video dealing with open source information and sharing. Not only is the competition brewing here at Penn State, but across the world since SPARC is also playing host to an international competition.

Top winners of the international competition receive a $1000 check, while the runner up and “People’s Choice” winners receive $500. The local Penn State contest winners have the following lined up for them according to the contest website:

• 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

Anyone from Penn State is encouraged to enter into the competition. Faculty can see this page made by the sponsoring organization, SPARC, for information on integrating the contest into their curriculum. Students are asked to speak with their Professor about “double counting” a video made for class along with the Sparky Contest.

You can find the official contest details here, along with all the information that Penn State offers here. I’d have to admit it would be pretty cool to win this contest. If a Penn State students wins the contest, we’ll post it up here on Onward State.

The deadline is December 6th, 2009, so get to shootin’ that video!

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