What is Screencast-O-Matic?

Screencast-­o-­Matic is a web based service that allows you to create a screen recording. The software captures your computer desktop as a video, and allows you to capture additional audio as a voice­over. If you've ever watched a video of a computer screen with someone giving directions to you at the same time, you've seen a screen recording. The most convenient aspect of this is that it is a free tool that allows you to record 15 minutes of video to narrate a slide show, or a powerpoint presentation.

Step By Step Guide:

1. Visit the Screencast-O-Matic website: https://screencast-o-matic.com/home

2. Select Start Recording on the right-hand side of your screen.

3. Select Launch Recorder

4. In the box that appears, select Download Launcher. Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the recorder.

5. Once the Recorder Launcher is downloaded, refresh your page to select the Launch Recorder again.

6. When the recorder launches, you will see a black & white frame with the recording controls. There are options to record the screen, webcam, or both at the same time.

7. Drag and rotate the frame to focus on what your recording will be on, or choose the full-screen option in the Size menu.

8. When ready to record, select the Record button.

9. When finished recording, select the Done button and a new window will appear.

9. Select an desired option to save your file to.

10. Use the website's editing tools to edit your video.

Benefits of this Website

• Simply requires a browser and internet connection.
• It is a great resource for informative demonstrations and lesson presentations that can give a face to face feel to the user who is watching.
• It provides a more engaging environment for viewers/students.
• Educators can use screencasts to provide demonstrations, record lectures, or tell digital stories.
• It has user friendly features, for example: The website requires nothing more than clicking on the Start Recording button to begin the recording process. This makes it fairly easy for beginners who may find it difficult to navigate complex screen recording tools.
• As compared to other free screen recorders, this website offers users the ability for viewers to add comments, highlighted cursors, and notes for creators.
• There is an option to upgrade to the Pro Package for an annual fee of $15.
  • This allows unlimited filming time and unlocks additional editing features.

Classroom Activities

FAQ's & answers

1. Can I import and edit an mp4 or other video?

• Starting with v2.1 you can Import an mp4 video file to use in the editor. See this video for a tutorial --- http://som.screencasthost.com/v2-import-mp4

2. Can I make and edit recordings when offline?

• You can install the full app so you can launch it from the your Windows or Mac PC just like any other program even without a network connection: http://screencast-o-matic.com/download

3. How can I download a screencast that I've uploaded to Screencast-O-Matic.com?

• Login with your account then go to your uploads page
• Then hover your mouse over the screencast you want to download and click the first icon
• This will give you an option to download the screencast

4. How can I position the control bar so it shows at the top instead of the bottom?

• If you want to have the control bar default to the top of the recording frame you can set that option by choosing the recording settings
• Then change the value to "On Top"