USING VIDEO CONTENT TO AMPLIFY LEARNING

By Rebecca Alber
March 18, 2019
https://www.edutopia.org/article/using-video-content-amplify-learning

Teachers are always striving to show more and tell less when introducing students to
new information, concepts, and skills. Education researcher Pauline Gibbons tells us, “Rather
than trying to simplify information, amplifying the curriculum means finding as many ways
as possible to make key information comprehensible.”

New teachers often struggle to find ways to amplify their curriculum. Video clips can
be a great tool to assist students in gaining that deeper understanding of content. It’s
important to be mindful of how often and how much we use video—it’s important to have
a clear purpose for using that film, documentary, or news clip.

PURPOSES FOR USING VIDEO

a. Building background knowledge on a topic. We know that students learn best when
they take in information via multiple modalities—through reading, drawing, listening
to the teacher’s oral explanations, and viewing visual media. We also know, from
much research, that using visuals is key for those acquiring a new language. In
California and many other U.S. states, we have a large number of English language
learners (ELLs) in our schools. Images and videos support the learning of new content,
concepts, and ideas.

b. Enriching a text or text excerpt. Whether they’re reading a piece of fiction or

nonfiction, students benefit from contextualizing the person, place, or thing they’re
learning about. Video clips can assist them in visualizing an event or a person, while
setting the context historically, politically, socially, and emotionally.

c. Deepening or solidifying students’ learning. Child-friendly how-to or instructional

videos are readily available on the internet. Typically under seven minutes, these can
serve to reinforce what students have learned or are already learning. YouTube,
TeacherTube, and BrainPop, for example, provide brief instructional videos on
different academic topics and subjects, such as how to do short division or how to
write a letter. Watching a short instructional video created for kids is a nice break for
students—and something novel or fresh can really stick with them.

TIPS FOR USING VIDEO

a. Be selective. A clip can have a big impact, so you’ll want to pick the most
dynamic and telling parts of the film, news segment, or documentary to show
students. Be first clear on your purpose—that will help you determine what to show
and how to frame it for students.

b. Provide a mission. How can we make sure students actively watch? Provide a
mission before playing the video. For example, “As you watch, I want you to pay
 attention to....” Setting a goal for what students are about to watch will keep them
accountable and attentive.

c. Pause to ponder (and write). Give students time to reflect by pausing the clip.
Avoid having students do a task like writing notes or answering questions while they
watch. This is especially difficult for ELLs. (For all of us, frankly. Try it.) Watch a few
minutes and then pause the video to ask students to discuss what they just saw,
write down reflections, or answer a question you provide. Pausing every few
minutes allows students time to process what they’re viewing, which is especially
valuable if it’s an information-packed video, or if you teach an early elementary
grade.

d. Turn on closed captioning. Students can read along as they watch. For content-
packed video clips, consider including the transcripts, as a handout or digital
copy, especially if your students are going to be required to apply the information
they learn from the video.

WHY VIDEOS ARE IMPORTANT IN EDUCATION

Written by Max Bevan, B.B.A
March 25, 2020
https://www.nextthoughtstudios.com/video-production-blog/2017/1/31/why-videos-are-
important-in-
education#:~:text=Videos%20increase%20student%20engagement%2C%20which,discussi
ons%20or%20review%20particular%20areas.
Share

The influence of digital videos on our everyday culture is undeniable. Online video
sharing sites such as YouTube, Vimeo, and Metacafe boast monthly audience numbers in
the millions.

With digital videos continuing to gain popularity, it seems only natural that this familiar
and widespread platform should extend into the education system.

Students today are using educational videos as a tool for learning everything: from
basic skills - like changing a tire - to the latest dance craze. Remarkably, millennials make
up 92% of the digital video viewing audience. Abstract topics that once seemed difficult to
teach and learn are now more accessible and understandable thanks to the availability of
effective educational video platforms for online learning.

Studies have shown that the use of short video clips allows for more efficient
processing and memory recall. The visual and auditory nature of videos appeals to a wide
audience and allows each user to process information in a way that’s natural to them. In a
nutshell, videos are good teachers.

The use of videos in teaching and learning serves to not only benefit students, but also
teachers, their affiliated institutions, and the entire school system. A 2015 study conducted
by software company Kaltura concluded that 93% of teachers believe that the use
of educational videos improves the learning experience. They also serve to break down
barriers, such as student and campus location, which were once insurmountable.

As a result, educational institutions are faced with the task of meeting the rising
demand for quality learning videos, online course offerings, and campus accessibility.
Indeed, many are choosing to create their own educational video learning materials. While
this idea may seem daunting, it can be a positive and enjoyable experience if you contract
a full-service video production company that can tailor your videos to your institution’s
individual needs.

USING VIDEOS IN EDUCATION

The online, asynchronous nature of videos allows them to be shared all across
the world and at all hours of the day or night. Educational institutions can gain great
autonomy by using videos to reach a broader audience than ever before. They can
be used to keep potential, current, and former students involved and engaged.

Videos can be used in a variety of ways in the educational setting, including:

a. Introducing Your Institution to Potential Students

Short video clips containing interactive maps, prominent campus personalities,
and important traditions and landmarks can be a great way to introduce
students and their families to your facility. This is a great solution for students who
are unable to visit in person. An informative campus tour video can mean the
difference between a student choosing to apply to your school and nixing it
from the list because of a transportation barrier.

b. Facilitating the Admissions and Acceptance Process

Once students have been accepted, videos can be used to assist incoming
students with completing the admissions process. These can include
information for enrolling in courses, applying for housing, and even investigating
extracurricular activities. Descriptions of academic and other campus areas
can help incoming students feel excited and accepted while at the same time
offering valuable information in a short 2-3 minute video.

c. Introducing Potential Students to Your Institution’s Town

Potential students and their families may not be able to physically visit the areas
surrounding the campus. Creating short videos showcasing the landmarks,
history, and culture of their prospective new town can help them feel more at
home and get acclimated quicker. This might even help support the economic
development of the town, by highlighting local delicacies, popular shops, and
restaurants.

d. Teaching Course Material

Teachers can use videos to deliver course information that can be extremely
helpful in opening up class time. Lectures and other introductory information
can be viewed before class, which allows for more practice- and skill-related
 class activities. These videos are accessible at the student’s convenience and
can be watched numerous times to assist with coursework and skill mastery.

BENEFITS OF USING VIDEOS IN THE CLASSROOM

The benefits of using videos in an educational setting are numerous. Their

convenience and versatility make them an asset to students, teachers, and
educational institutions alike, whether elementary, high school, or higher levels.

BENEFITS TO STUDENTS:
Videos create a more engaging sensory experience than using print materials
alone. Learners actually get to see and hear the concept being taught, and
they can process it in the same way they process their everyday interactions.

They provide a go-to resource that can be watched from anywhere with an
internet connection. Videos are accessible on a multitude of devices including
laptops, tablets, and smartphones. This allows for viewing at the student’s
convenience and from wherever they are.

Videos increase knowledge retention, since they can be stopped and

replayed as many times as needed. They can also be reviewed long after the
initial lesson was taught.

They greatly assist in the learning of all subjects, but particularly those topics
that are complex and/or highly visual, such as step-by-step procedures,
problem-solving, or science and math formulas.
They increase proficiency in digital literacy and communication, which are
important 21st-century skills.

BENEFITS TO TEACHERS:
Videos increase student engagement, which in turn helps boost achievement.
If students are interested in the material, they will process and remember it
better.

They offer the flexibility to pause, rewind, or skip throughout the video to have
class discussions or review particular areas.

They enable teachers to create a flipped classroom or “blended” learning

environment. However, videos are also beneficial to teachers who teach in
traditional classroom settings.

Digital videos facilitate remote learning opportunities so that teachers can

reach students from all over the world.

They provide opportunities for student feedback and assistance through video.
This is helpful for students who are unable to attend classes, or who need
tutoring or review sessions.
 Videos seek to change the roles of teachers from lecturers to facilitators. It’s
important to note that videos are meant to enhance course materials and
lectures — not replace them.

BENEFITS TO INSTITUTIONS:
Great potential to improve marketing and communications. Digital videos help
to broaden your audience by reaching a greater number of people. These can
be posted on your institution’s website or linked in an email or digital
advertisement, or posted on social media.

More flexible faculty and staff training. It’s often difficult for schools to assemble
all of their faculty and staff at the same time, resulting in fragmented
information acquisition. Using digital videos as a delivery method for training
ensures that your faculty and staff have equal access to the information.
Offering this option not only improves their retention and recall, but also serves
as an archive to review it any time.

Ability to record campus events for live or on-demand viewing. When parents,
students, and alumni feel closer to what’s going on at your school, they’ll feel
more invested, thus increasing the likelihood of positive recommendations and
engagement with students new and old.

Ability to increase online course offerings. Online university programs are

extremely popular, due to diverse student populations. Broadening your
institution’s online program can serve to greatly enhance your appeal with
potential online students.

Digital videos can be integrated into your institution’s learning management

system (LMS). Enabling video clips to be easily uploaded to your LMS provides
an additional resource for students and teachers.

Increasing campus accessibility through videos conveys an attitude of positive

public relations to parents, potential students, and alumni. This can attract
potential students and is a powerful recruiting tool.

The use of videos in education shows a high return on investment (ROI) in those
institutions that employ a tool to measure it. This includes higher grades
reported when video review modules are offered and viewed before exams.

USING EDUCATIONAL VIDEOS IN THE CLASSROOM

Cognitive science is an area that focuses on how humans process

information. The science behind educational videos is that, since they are
observed through both the visual/pictorial and auditory/verbal processing
channels, learners are able to make more relevant associations that help with
memory and recall.
In order to maximize reception and processing, the following four methods are best
practices to employ when designing and creating effective learning videos:
a. Signaling: This is done through the use of on-screen text or graphics. It directs
the learner’s attention and highlights the specific information that needs to
be processed.

b. Segmenting: Information is divided into appropriately sized chunks, to give

the learner more control when trying to process it. This is achieved through
the effective management of video length and the use of break points or
pauses throughout.

c. Weeding: The removal of any unnecessary information in a video that may

hinder the learner’s ability to process and recall the information. Weeding
maximizes learners’ memory capacities for both the auditory and visual
channels.

d. Matching Modality: This refers to presenting information in a way that targets

both the auditory and visual channels simultaneously. An example of this
would be providing a narration while showing an on-screen animation. This
serves to increase processing in the working memory and prevents cognitive
overload.

The following recommendations are helpful when creating an effective and

beneficial educational video:
a. Limit videos to about five minutes or less, unless you are trying to relay a
great deal of information. When using video clips in the classroom, shorter
clips help students learn the information without being overloaded or losing
their focus.

b. Maintain a conversational and enthusiastic tone to keep learners engaged.

c. Properly balance auditory and visual elements throughout.

d. Break videos into short segments by topic or theme.

e. Include interactive and responsive features, such as a short quiz, to promote

reflection and ownership.

f. Longer videos are also effective — however, their total length should
typically be limited to no more than 30 minutes. Showing video clips in short
segments and keeping the total length contained to a concise running time
helps to keep viewers engaged.

g. Using captions and subtitles with videos has also been proven to be
effective in helping students access and process information. This is
especially important when considering diverse student populations,
including non-native English speakers and those with special needs.
EFFECTIVELY USING VIDEOS IN THE COLLEGE CLASSROOM
https://citl.indiana.edu/teaching-resources/teaching-strategies/effectively-using-video-
teaching/index.html

Full-length videos and video clips can be very useful in teaching. However, it is
important to consider ahead of time what you hope your students will learn from the videos.
You will also need to plan out how you will help the students learn, and how you will know
whether they have done so.

In planning to use video, consider the following three distinct phases:

Phase 1: Provide questions (prompts) that focus your students on what you believe is
important in the video. Consider why you are having them watch the video,
and what you hope they will learn from watching it. You can list the prompts
on the board or on a worksheet that you hand out in class or post online
before class. You can have students write down their answers or submit them
using electronic resources (see below for ideas).

Phase 2: Watch the video as a class. Don’t be afraid to stop the video to point out
something important if you think it will be useful to the students. Model the
engagement with the video that you desire from your students.

Phase 3: Debrief as a class or in small groups about the students’ answers to the
prompts you gave them. Make sure that they have achieved your goals for
having them watch the video.

HOW CAN VIDEOS BE USED TO IMPROVE STUDENT LEARNING?

Studies have shown that use of videos can improve learning by:
a. Allowing students to view content outside of class, increasing face-to-face
class time for application and reinforcement of knowledge through
interactive activities and group discussions

b. Allowing students to have flexibility and control over their learning

c. Providing additional resources to students to supplement core materials

d. Providing demonstration or visual examples that cannot be replicated in

class

e. To achieve the greatest benefits from using videos in your course, instructors
should think about how it integrates with learning outcomes and assessment
activities and communicate the purpose of watching the videos to the
students. Reinforce the knowledge presented in the videos by following up
with online or in-class discussions, assignments, or mini quizzes. If students see
that the videos clearly connect to in class activities and assessments they
will be more likely to see relevance in engaging with the videos and not see
them as “extra work”.
4 EXPERT TIPS FOR USING VIDEO IN THE CLASSROOM

by Jan Zanetis
https://edtechmagazine.com/k12/article/2015/12/4-expert-tips-using-video-classroom

Video helps teachers capture students’ imagination and attention and

improves their own teaching style.

Teachers are using video in their classrooms in a variety of ways. Alan

Greenberg, a senior analyst at consultancy Wainhouse Research who specializes in
technology applications in education, says he has seen “video go from a stand-alone
application to one of the features in a larger set of applications.”

Learners today will likely seek information from YouTube before consulting a
book. It makes sense, then, to capitalize on video of various types to engage learners.

Here are some ways educators can better incorporate video into the
classroom:

a. SPICE UP CONTENT WITH VIDEO CLIPS.

There are so many free resources on the Internet, such as YouTube,
TeacherTube or Khan Academy. Most of today’s digital textbooks come
with a wealth of video clips to supplement their content.

b. TAP INTO STUDENTS’ INNATE SHOWMANSHIP.

Students today are not shy in front of a camera. Setting up a video recording
area in the classroom can be as easy as mounting a smartphone on a mini
tripod. Be creative: Students could make commercials about a country they
are studying, or they might act out a scene from a Shakespeare play. Post
their work in a password-protected account on Vimeo to share with parents.

c. CHECK OUT THE MAN IN THE MIRROR.

Teachers can also use the new video recording area to record information
about lessons. They can watch the videos to look for hits or misses, to help
improve their teaching style. When recording, try not to be a “talking head.”
Use visuals, and keep each video between 5 and 10 minutes.

d. OPEN CLASSROOM DOORS TO THE WORLD.

Free tools such as Skype and Google Hangouts or other inexpensive
platforms allow educators to connect students directly with experts and
peers throughout the world. The Center for Interactive Learning and
Collaboration (cilc.org) shares standards-based lessons from experts at
hundreds of museums, science centers, art galleries and zoos. Or visit
Nepris (nepris.com) to find experts in the workforce who can discuss their
careers or provide feedback on student projects.
FIVE (EASY-TO-IMPLEMENT) WAYS VIDEO CAN HAVE A POWERFUL IMPACT ON
TEACHING AND LEARNING
By Christine Umayam
Apr 23, 2018
https://www.edsurge.com/news/2018-04-23-five-easy-to-implement-ways-video-can-have-a-
powerful-impact-on-teaching-and-learning

The days of standing in front of the classroom and “lecturing” are long gone. By using video,
teachers can keep students engaged in new and innovative ways.

Video is also proving to have solid results when it comes to learning outcomes—from higher
test scores to increased engagement with learning materials to increased comprehension.

Including video in classroom instruction offers numerous benefits for both educators and
students. These include time saved introducing new concepts as well as the ability for teachers to
build authentic relationships through mentorship. Video is also proving to have solid results when it
comes to learning outcomes—from higher test scores to increased engagement with learning
materials to increased comprehension.

Here are five ways video can have a powerful impact on teaching and learning:

a. Engagement
Video brings together two things that the written word can’t: body language and
tone of voice. Combined, these play a significant role in teaching a subject. Because our
brains process visual images almost 60,000 times faster than the written word, video
naturally engages students more than many other teaching methods. Indeed, studies
have shown that video learning has positive outcomes on multiple levels, including
increased motivation and deeper learning, and can specifically impact students’ ability
to facilitate discussions and identify problems.

b. Effectiveness
Video learning is effective on both sides of the classroom; educators can use it to
create time and space for active learning. Once a video is created, it can be reused and
updated as needed, leaving more time in the classroom for live discussions and
engagement with students. Studies have shown that video lectures are effective because
they allow class time to be used in more engaging ways.

Because videos can be watched repeatedly until the material is fully grasped, they
let students learn at their own pace. In a flipped classroom, students watch video lessons
for homework and use class time to dig into the content with teachers.

c. Authenticity
Video engages both the student and educator in a one-on-one relationship
without ever being in the same room.

A compelling 2016 study by the Online Learning Consortium found that video
helped educators build and foster authentic relationships with students. The study tasked
California Polytechnic University professors with providing video feedback on student
assignments. Teachers said they were able to offer guidance more quickly and effectively
than when providing handwritten feedback. As a result, professors built and
 fostered authentic relationships with students, while also understanding specific learning
needs.

d. Inspired Thinking
Visual cues combined with audio play a huge role in the comprehension and
retention of new material. Forrester Research analyst James McQuivey claims one minute
of video equals approximately 1.8 million written words. Thus when video is used in the
classroom, students are are forced to think critically when introduced to complex content.

Inspired thinking can also be found in the minds of students when they create their
own videos. By giving students the chance to produce their own videos, they are able to
engage both the analytical and creative parts of their brain. They are also inspired to
collaborate in a team environment and become active learners of new technologies.

e. Video For All

Traditional teaching methods—such as standing in front of the classroom—often
ignore students with special needs. And while people with learning and physical
disabilities make up almost 20% of the US population, many teachers receive no special
education training.

Video can help address this gap in training by giving both general and special
education teachers the opportunity to teach students at their own pace. Students can
rewatch a video multiple times in order to gain and retain learning material. And captions,
for example, enable deaf students to read the video.

Numerous studies show that utilizing both the visual and audio portions of learning
leads to high engagement and improved outcomes. From higher test scores to building
authentic relationships with teachers, video is proving to be a must-have in the classroom.

Video also allows dissemination of educational knowledge to classrooms around the

globe. A teacher in Milwaukee can easily create a video tutorial for children in India. This
information-sharing medium is enhancing our ability to learn from each other, opening up
doors of cultural understanding and social empathy.

HOW CAN VIDEOS BE USED TO IMPROVE STUDENT LEARNING?

https://isit.arts.ubc.ca/ideas-and-strategies-for-using-video-in-the-classroom/

Studies have shown that use of videos can improve learning by:

a. Allowing students to view content outside of class, increasing face-to-face

class time for application and reinforcement of knowledge through
interactive activities and group discussions

b. Allowing students to have flexibility and control over their learning

c. Providing additional resources to students to supplement core materials

d. Providing demonstration or visual examples that cannot be replicated in

class
 To achieve the greatest benefits from using videos in your course, instructors
should think about how it integrates with learning outcomes and assessment activities
and communicate the purpose of watching the videos to the students. Reinforce the
knowledge presented in the videos by following up with online or in-class discussions,
assignments, or mini quizzes. If students see that the videos clearly connect to in class
activities and assessments they will be more likely to see relevance in engaging with
the videos and not see them as “extra work”.

TIPS FOR USING VIDEOS IN YOUR CLASS

a. Integrate immediate assessment and feedback. Have students complete a

practice assessment after viewing the video and provide immediate feedback to
ensure understanding of the material. Studies show that including an assessment
at the end is more effective than just viewing the materials multiple times.

b. Encourage note taking and reflection. Encourage students (particularly those who
are unfamiliar with the topic) to take notes while watching the video or answer
conceptual questions in between the video to help improve long-term retention
of the material. Using a tool such as CLAS can help encourage active
engagement with the material through annotation and commenting.

c. Keep the content focused. Avoid including interesting facts or anecdotes in your
video that are not crucial to the learning experience as they become distractors
that can decrease learning by reducing both recall and problem-solving
performance.

d. Break up material into clear sections. When explaining complicated cause-and-

effect concepts that are related simultaneously, divide the explanation into
segments and have students view them separately before showing the full
explanation. This encourages students to understand one concept before moving
onto the next and allows the learner to control the pace of their learning.

e. Use conversation style. Use a conversational style in your videos (such as “you”
and “your”) rather than a formal style (such as “students should…”). This will help
students to feel more personally connected to you through the video which helps
to reduce the lack of presence when materials are moved online.

f. Emphasize important concepts. Emphasize essential material by highlighting, using

pointers, zooming in, and drawing circles, to focus learners’ attention on important
points.

g. Avoid too much visual information. Try to use graphics and narration to
communicate concepts. Avoid adding too much printed text to prevent cognitive
overload as it is difficult for the brain to read and listen at the same time.

h. Limit video length. Try to limit video length for online viewing. Instead of uploading
an hour long lecture, break the material into multiple, shorter videos. While 6-8
 minutes is often given as a target, it is important to consider the context and
purpose of the videos as well as the overall amount of video content students are
expected to watch each week. Some academic concepts cannot easily be
reduced to a 6 minute explanation, so if you do go longer make sure the material
is focused and tied closely to assessment activities.

i. Design for reuse and longevity. Video is expensive and time consuming to create,
so you want to make sure you can use the same videos from term to term without
having to redo them. Avoid including dates and references to current events that
will limit the potential of reusing content from year to year.

CHALLENGES IN USING VIDEOS

a. Time and Budget. Video can be time intensive and expensive to produce.
Learning how to use the audio-visual equipment and editing software requires
training and time. Depending on your goals a Do-It-Yourself approach might be
a good way to start simply with existing tools and training that are available. For
more advanced productions, funding for support might be necessary.

b. Instructor Workload. Producing videos requires planning, filming, and post-

production; all which can be time consuming tasks. Using videos to replace
lectures means the instructor will also have to plan and redesign what will be done
during class time.

c. Content Coverage. Keeping videos short enough to keep learners’ engaged while
covering the required materials can sometimes be a challenge and may require
some decisions about what is most important to include. Consider separating the
video into multiple segments with distinct topics and learning goals.

d. Student attitude and workload. Changing the method of learning may cause
some students to respond negatively if they are uncertain of the purpose or view
it as more work. Communicate the purpose and objectives of the videos so
students see them as a useful resource and not an addition to their
workload. Students are also likely to engage more actively with video materials
that they perceive are directly connected with assessments and class activities.

12 SIMPLE TIPS FOR MAKING YOUR VIDEOS LOOK MORE PROFESSIONAL

Olga Bedrina
ave.video/blog/12-simple-tips-for-making-your-videos-look-more-professional/

Achieving a professional look is more about your technique than your tools, so you
don’t need to drop a fortune on expensive equipment – chances are good that you can
make great videos with whatever you’ve got right now, just by paying attention to a few
key details.
These 12 tips will help you improve the quality of your videos right away.

1. USE PLENTY OF LIGHT.

Lighting makes a huge difference in the quality of a finished professional
video, so make it one of your top priorities during filming. If you don’t use
enough properly-placed light, your video will probably look amateurish, even
if it’s great in every other way.

The sun is one of the best light sources for video. If you’re filming in natural
light, do your best to get your footage in the morning or evening, when the light
is softer. Midday light coming from straight overhead can cast harsh shadows
on your subjects, while morning and evening light is more flattering. If you do
have to film in the middle of the day, try to do so on a cloudy day, or find a
shady area for softer light.

Do your best to get your footage in the morning or evening, when the
light is softer. If you’re filming indoors, you will need to be more intentional about
the types of lights you use and where you place them. One thing to avoid is
overhead lighting – it can cast unflattering shadows on your subjects’ faces.
Windows are a good natural light source. You can also use a large lamp or two
to cast the type of light you want.

Before you set up your light sources, consider the effect you want to
create in your finished video. Do you want your subject’s face entirely lit up
(“soft” or “flat” light), or do you want some shadows (“hard” light)?

Using lots of shadow looks dramatic, and it can be distracting in

professional videos where drama isn’t the intended effect. Using little or no
shadow creates a more open and straightforward vibe, which is usually better
for business and marketing videos.

If you want to use flat light in your video, balance two light sources on
either side of the camera. You can place them either behind the camera or
just in front of it. Here’s one example from Wistia of how you can achieve this
setup.

The two symmetrically-placed light sources create a balanced effect

with no shadows. If you want your subject to have a bit more shadow and
depth, you can try using the “lighting triangle” to achieve it. Using a single light
source creates more shadows in your video.

2. USE A CLEAN BACKGROUND.

Be deliberate about the background you use for filming. Nothing looks
less professional than a messy or distracting background.

One easy way to get a professional look for your video is to use a solid-
colored background. A wall, a bedsheet, or a large sheet of backdrop paper
 are all good options. Make sure your subject stands several feet away from the
backdrop to avoid casting shadows on it.

It’s also a good idea to shoot a video in a “professional” environment:

the place where you actually work or spend time. For instance, Amy Landino,
makes her professional videos in her home office. Make sure to check out this
video for both a great example of a filming set and some great tips on how to
actually set up a home office.

Be careful not to film with a window or another reflective surface in the

background of your shot. You could inadvertently catch the camera in the
reflection. Besides that, having a light source like a window behind your subject
can make the subject look dark and shadowy.

3. CHOOSE A GOOD VIDEO EDITING PROGRAM.

Good video editing software can help you turn your raw footage into
something great. There are some simpler tools like Wave.video, Camtasia or
iMovie. More professional options include Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere
Pro.

Here are the key features to pay attention to when choosing a video
editor:
a. The ability to add text to video;
b. The ability to trim and crop videos;
c. Scene transitions;
d. The ability to change the aspect ratio;
e. Adding filters and overlays;
f. A library of stock videos and sounds.

4. KEEP YOUR EDITING SIMPLE.

Trying out different effects can be fun during the video editing process,
but don’t go too crazy. A simple, clean editing style generally looks most
professional.

A few things you should be sure to do during the editing stage include:
a. Using noise cancelling to clean up any background noise.
b. Adjusting the lighting a little if you need to.
c. Cutting out awkward pauses and silences.
d. Adding background music and transitions.

Another editing tip: If you cut from one scene to another in your
professional video, make the jump when there’s motion in both segments. This
is smoother and more natural than jumping from one scene where nothing is
happening to another.
5. PRIORITIZE CRISP, CLEAR AUDIO.
Your audio quality is actually more important than your professional
video quality. Most people are willing to watch a video that’s not shot in HD or
that’s even a little grainy, as long as everything else about it is good. But fuzzy,
indistinct audio is usually enough to make anybody hit the “back” button within
a few seconds of starting to play a video.

Because audio matters so much, a good microphone is the first piece of

equipment you should invest in. Get the best one you can afford.

Capture clear audio by putting your microphone as close to the subject

as possible. You might want to use a pop filter to eliminate blips and crackles
on the finished recording. Be aware of any background noise that your
microphone might be picking up, too.

6. AVOID SHAKY FOOTAGE.

Shaky footage will make any professional video look like a home movie
(and it can make your viewers feel seasick, to boot). It’s hard to hold a camera
completely steady, so try not to hold your camera at all if you can help it.
Instead, use a tripod, or set your camera on a sturdy surface.

Once you’ve got your camera set up, try not to move it unless you have
to. Panning around constantly detracts from the professional look of a video.
Rather than moving the camera if you have to change perspective, it’s better
to cut from one shot to another.

7. UNDERSTAND THE RULE OF THIRDS.

The rule of thirds is one of the most basic principles of film composition.

Imagine that there’s a 3-by-3 grid laid over the field you’re filming.
Instead of placing your subject right in the middle of the shot, you should place
your subject along one of the lines of the grid. The points where the lines
intersect are particularly strong areas of focus, so situate important elements of
the video there, if you can.

You don’t have to follow the rule of thirds all the time, but while you’re
still learning, it’s a good idea to adhere to it as often as possible. As you gain
experience, you’ll get a better instinct for when to stick with the rule and when
to break it.

8. USE YOUR PHONE THE RIGHT WAY.

No DSLR camera? No problem. You can use your phone to capture
professional video footage – the quality is just fine for most purposes. But there
are a few things in mind if you’re going to use your phone for video creation.

Use the camera on the back of your phone. The front camera’s quality is
not as good on most phones.
 Record in landscape mode (that is, horizontally instead of vertically). This
will give you footage that looks good on larger devices, not just phone screens.

If your phone has a feature that allows you to overlay a grid on your
screen, use it. This will help you keep your phone level and avoid tilted footage.

9. WORK ON YOUR CAMERA PRESENCE.

If you appear in your professional videos, the way you carry yourself on
camera has an enormous impact on how professional your content looks.
Appearing nervous, fidgety, or uncomfortable on camera will distract viewers
from your message.

Fortunately, this is something you can improve with practice. If you

weren’t born with great camera presence, here are a few of the main things
to focus on when you film yourself.

Use calm, open body language. Stand up straight – poor posture is

immediately obvious on camera. Keep your shoulders back and your muscles
relaxed. Take deep breaths. Don’t cross your arms, since this makes you look
closed-off.

Smile, especially at the beginning of your video. It makes a huge

difference in how friendly you seem.

Slow down slightly when you talk, and make an effort to enunciate
clearly. Speak from your diaphragm rather than your throat.

If you feel jittery, try using props to keep your hands occupied. Writing on
a whiteboard, for instance, can give you something to focus on besides the
camera.

Practice, practice, practice. Watch footage of yourself and identify the

areas where you could improve. Then make a conscious effort to work on those
things.

10. SHOOT FROM A VARIETY OF ANGLES.

Cutting from one angle to another is a good (and simple) way to add
visual interest to your professional videos. This is an especially useful technique
if you’re making a how-to video, a product demo, or another type of video
that shows you doing something rather than just talking.

Shoot plenty of B-roll footage for each video so you have the option of
using it later if you want to.

Pro tip: when you change perspectives, shift by at least 45 degrees.

Smaller shifts in perspective don’t really create the intended effect – they just
look jarring to the viewer.
 11. PLAN YOUR VIDEOS IN ADVANCE.
Poor technique isn’t the only thing that can make a video look
unprofessional. A lack of planning can also leave viewers underwhelmed with
your finished product. By taking the time to plan your video thoroughly before
you start production, you can ensure that the quality of your actual content is
just as good as the quality of your footage.

Every time you make a video, start by defining its purpose. Ask yourself
what you want to achieve or communicate by making this video. In addition,
define your target audience. How will you make your video speak to these
viewers in particular?

12. PROMOTE YOUR VIDEOS.

Creating your videos is only half the battle. The other half is getting
people to watch them. If you want to present yourself as a serious and
professional video creator, you’ve got to promote your videos and grow your
following.

TEACHING WITH TECHNOLOGY

10 TIPS FOR CREATING EFFECTIVE INSTRUCTIONAL VIDEOS
March 31, 2017
Michael Smedshammer, PhD
https://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/teaching-with-technology-articles/10-tips-creating-
effective-instructional-videos/

Instructor presence is an important component of effective online teaching,

and video can help make it happen. Instructional videos have become increasingly
easy to create and can turn a good online class into an engaging learning
experience. Video humanizes the online experience by letting students know their
instructor as a real person, not an abstraction. Good quality webcams are available
for less than $100, and there are numerous free and easy-to-use resources for creating
and publishing video content so it can be streamed back into our courses.

Staring into a webcam and pressing the record button can be intimidating for
some of us–after all, we’re teachers, not TV personalities–but it’s actually easier than
you might think. Here are 10 tips that will soon have you broadcasting like a pro.

1. FORGET THE HEADSET

If your computer doesn’t have a built-in camera and microphone, buy
a webcam that does both. Webcam sound quality is almost as good as a
headset’s, and it lets you be “you” without the Mickey Mouse ears.

2. KEEP IT SHORT
Students have been raised on YouTube. Try to keep your videos brief. Few
students will sit through videos where the instructor drones on and on. If you
 have a lot to say (and sometimes we do!), chunk up the message. Make a
video mini-series with 5-10 minute chapters.
3. PREPARE WELL AND THEN WING IT.
Some people like to start out with a script, but this can feel artificial.
Sometimes a brief outline taped next to your webcam is all you need to stay
on track without sounding like you’re reading from your notes. However, if the
video is only five minutes or so, you might just re-record until you get it right—
not necessarily “perfect.”

4. POSITION THE CAMERA ABOVE YOUR EYES, SO YOU LOOK SLIGHTLY UP AT IT.
Avoid looking down at the camera. Your audience does not want to look
up your nose. If you’re using a laptop, put a stack of books under it so you raise
the camera. Position your head to appear at the top third of the screen so the
recording includes your face and most of your torso.

5. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

Your work or home office are usually safe choices as a background for
the recording. Outdoors can be a nice change. Try putting your back to a
neutral wall with the light source in front. Avoid sitting in front of a window, as
the glare will make you appear as if you’re in a witness protection program.
And this should be obvious but it needs to be said: don’t record with your bed,
pajamas, laundry, or bathroom in the background.

6. MOVE IT OUT
Don’t always shoot your videos from the same spot. Your audience will
tire of seeing the same background. Start with your office, but also consider a
quiet place on the campus quad or maybe your kitchen or backyard. Keep
the backgrounds neutral but varied. Your audience will appreciate it.

7. LOOK RIGHT AT THE CAMERA LENS

Looking anywhere else looks weird. Your audience will think you have an
avoidance problem.

8. COVER YOUR SCREEN

Once you get everything ready, consider taping a piece of paper over
your computer screen so you’re not distracted by seeing yourself while you
record. Remember, you do not need to be perfect! Try not to be overly critical
of yourself.

9. SAY “CHEESE”
Smiling helps everything. Whether you’re recording a webcast of your
face or just your voice, smiling makes you look and sound better.

10. AVOID OVER DOING IT

The wacky music, goofy fade-ins, and spinning transitions that come with
some video editing software can make home-videos look corny. Leave most
of those tools for the professionals (who don’t really use them either).
CREATE FILMS WITH VIDEO EDITOR
Windows 10
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/create-films-with-video-editor-94e651f8-
a5be-ae03-3c50-e49f013d47f6

Windows 10 includes Video Editor, a full-featured set of video creation and editing
tools that tell your story with music, text, motion, and 3D effects. Video Editor is the successor
to Movie Maker on Windows 10, with a focus on easy-to-use creative tools that enable you
to tell your story.

1. CREATE YOUR VIDEO

To create a new video that you can edit from start to finish
a. Type video editor into the Search bar and select Video Editor to launch the
app, or launch
from the
Start menu.

b. Select New video

project.

c. Name your video.

d. Select the photos

and videos you
want to add to
your Storyboard.
Once you have
organized
your Storyboard, you can change the look and feel of each photo or video clip.

a. Select a button like Trim or Split for editing (video clips only).
b. Select Duration to change the length of time a photo is displayed, or
select multiple photos and then select Duration to change their duration
all at once.

2. ADD TEXT
a. You can
add Text to photos
and video clips
with ease. You can
also create a Title
Card from the
Storyboard if you'd
like to add text to
a plain colored
background.

b. Simply select Text,

type a title or
phrase, then
select a style and
layout. You can
also time the text
to appear exactly
when you want
within your film.

3. ADD MUSIC

a. Select Background
music to choose
from several tracks
and sync your
video to the beat
or select Custom
audio to add and
time your own
music tracks,
narration, or sound
effects.

4. ADD EFFECTS

Using the power of Windows 10, you can add 3D objects or special effects
to your photos and video clips.

Use Filters to change your video clip or photo to black & white or other visual
treatments. Select Motion to give photos more visual interest.

Select Speed to speed up or slow down a video clip. If you want to change
the orientation of a photo or video, just select the Rotate icon.
 If your photo or video is a different aspect ratio than your project, you can
select the Remove or show black bars icon to zoom in and remove the
letterboxing effect.

5. TO ADD 3D OBJECTS

a. Select 3D library.

b. Rotate and size the object and add animations as well. You can also add, move,
and size 3D effects. You can also anchor an effect to a point in a video clip and
watch the effect move along.

6. PUBLISH YOUR VIDEO

When you have completed your project, select Finish video to publish your film.
You can control video quality if you wish.
 Additionally, you can Duplicate project to copy your video, and use Back up
project to share your project with or save your progress to share between multiple
users and devices. You can use Import backup to open one of your backed-up
projects and continue working.