Plan, Structure, Design, Build

Ask Yourself:

• Why am I going to make this video?
  • Just because you can, doesn't mean you should.
• How will my students be using this video?
  • Welcome, introduction, tutorial or modeled behavior, blended/flipped/missed class, tour or field trip.
• What's the best type of video for this activity? (First, review the questions to select the type.)
  • Talking head, lecture, interview, table top, screencast, animated, simulation/role play/demonstration, presentation
• How will I integrate this video into my lesson or instruction?
  • Provide introductions, provide feedback, present a problem, provide information about/around a topic, demonstrate complex or unseen processes, present solutions at the end of some process
• What tools do I have access to or should I acquire to build my video?
  • Audio, lighting, recording, and editing
• What do I have to do to make sure my video is ADA compliant?
  • Colors, animations, text, fonts, transcripts, closed captions

Getting Started Planning:

1. Begin with an outline or storyboard (know what you’re going to do before you do it)
2. Write a script (it will reduce “ums” and keep you focused – will also help when ensuring ADA compliance)
3. Gather your materials (images, screen captures [command shift 3 for Mac or prnt scr on PC], saved video, websites, etc.)
4. Create your slides or presentations (if that's your plan)
5. Record your screen captures (if that's your plan)
6. Keep your audio quality in mind (use a mic or headset over your computer’s built-in mic)
7. Pay attention to your lighting (practice three-point lighting)
8. Combine your recordings if you need to edit
9. Think about ADA compliance
10. For minute of video, you will likely spend 1-2 hours to create/edit (or more)

Getting Started Shooting or Editing:

1. Make the subject matter meaningful.
2. Please DO NOT create vertical videos!
3. Shaky video indicates amateur video.
4. Zoom with your feet, not with the lens.
5. If you see it or say it, you have to show it.
6. Sound draws people to video (you’ll script that in).
7. Every picture, image, or action should have a purpose (and a sound).
8. If interviewing, always encourage your subject – “Tell me more about…”