Frequent Questions & Answers
Who is this course for?
FireStarters Media is designed for middle school and high school students who are interested in learning video editing. No prior editing experience is required—this course starts at the beginning and builds skills step by step.
Does my student need any prior experience with video editing?
No prior experience is necessary. "The Beginner’s Guide to Video Editing" is specifically created for students who are brand new to Adobe Premiere Pro. We assume no background knowledge and teach everything from importing clips to exporting a finished video.
What software and equipment are required?
Students will need:
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A laptop or desktop computer capable of running Adobe Premiere Pro
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An active Adobe Premiere Pro subscription
All video clips, audio files, and sound effects used in the course are provided on a custom FireStarters Media flash drive, so students do not need to source their own assets.
What is included with the course?
Each student receives:
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A printed course book
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A FireStarters Media flash drive with pre-loaded video, audio, and SFX assets
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Weekly live group sessions (in person or via Zoom)
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Assignments, key terms, and guided questions for each lesson
How is the course structured?
The course runs for 12 weeks. Each week includes:
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A lesson focused on a specific video editing skill
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A hands-on assignment
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Key terms to learn
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Guided questions for deeper understanding
Students then meet once per week for a one-hour live session where we walk through the lesson together and answer questions in real time.
Are the weekly sessions required?
While not strictly required, the weekly sessions are strongly encouraged. These meetings provide face-to-face instruction, accountability, and the opportunity for students to ask questions and learn alongside peers. Sessions may be attended in person or via Zoom.
Is this course appropriate for homeschool credit?
Yes. FireStarters Media is designed with homeschool families in mind. The structured lessons, weekly assignments, memorization of key terms, and guided questions make this course suitable for elective credit, depending on your state and homeschool requirements.
How much time should students expect to spend each week?
Most students will spend 2-4 hours per week, including:
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Watching the lesson
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Attending the weekly session
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Completing the assignment
Time may vary depending on how much a student chooses to refine or expand their projects.
Will students be able to keep their work?
Yes! All projects students create are theirs to keep. They will leave the course with completed videos and practical skills they can continue to use for personal projects, school assignments, or future media work.
What makes FireStarters Media different from other video editing courses?
FireStarters Media is built around hands-on learning, community, and purpose. Developed by an Alaskan, the goal is to raise the next generation of students who can positively influence media and culture in our state. Rather than learning in isolation, students build real skills while connecting with other creative, like-minded peers.