Greetings, mryg15.
Welcome to the Apple Support Communities. I understand that you have some questions about the iPhone Camera video format, and I’m happy to provide some clarity.
As you can see from the iPhone 11 - Technical Specifications, your iPhone records videos in HEVC format.
Here is a great article which will tell you more about the HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) format, including how you can work with, share, and convert this media: Using HEIF or HEVC media on Apple devices.
Since this is for a class, you may find you want to use the iMovie app. iMovie is available for free from the App Store, and allows you to create edit, and share movies. This article will tell you more about what it can do, and provide you with instructions. Just click on "Get started in iMovie" for more information: iMovie Help for iPhone.
Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have further questions.
All the best.