Preparing and Recording Instructor Videos

This article provides instructions on how to prepare and record an instructor video at Idaho State University (ISU).

• Choosing between a reusable vs. disposable video asset
• Determining instructor introduction video content
• Determining course introduction video content
• Preparing to record a video
• Recording a Video - Best Practices

When considering videos for your course, it is highly recommended to create reusable video assets or videos that can be used across multiple semesters and courses. Reusability gives the advantage of not having to create multiple or last-minute videos each time the course is taught.

A disposable video asset is too specific (referencing course dates, sections, or term) and only good for perhaps the term the course is offered. This type of video must be created for every section or term, requiring additional preparation time and recording sessions. 

To create a reusable video asset, take special care to avoid any mention of:

1. A specific course name or number in the Instructor Introduction
2. The term or any specific dates in the course
3. Details that may apply to only one iteration of a course
4. Also, in a course introduction video, avoid restating information that already exists in the course syllabus.

An  instructor introduction video in an online course creates a sense of connection between the instructor and the students. It presents the instructor as personable and approachable.

You might consider including the following in an instructor introduction video:

• An introduction to yourself, your title and field of expertise
• Your educational and work background
• Why you love your discipline and the different courses you teach
• What excites you about online teaching and how to avoid common "pitfalls" as online students
• (Optional) Personal information, such as your hobbies or your family/home life

A course introduction video gives students a general overview of the course and includes items such as a schedule of activities, methods of communication, and the purpose of the course. A course introduction video should also communicate information about prerequisite knowledge students need to be successful in the course.

You might consider including the following in an introduction video:

• Course number/name and how the course fits into the curriculum of the program
• The purpose of the course
• The relevance of the course to the students
• How the course is designed/organized and delivered to students
• How/why the course design will help the students achieve the course goals and learning outcomes/objectives
• Your expectations for student participation
• Any special instructions for assessments or assignments

Create an outline: 

Before recording an introductory video, it is highly recommended to first create an outline of talking points or topics to cover in the video. An outline should include essential information students need to know about the instructor and course. The outline also ensures a smooth and logical flow in the delivery of the information. 

Note: Creating an outline will help to keep the video at a reasonable length, and file size. A good benchmark for video length is approximately 3-5 minutes.

Write a Script:

A script is a fleshed out version of an outline stating exactly what you plan to say while recording the video. The script should be, word-for-word, what will read into the camera.

Note: Federal law requires multimedia content to be compliant with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. Essentially, this means that videos should be closed-captioned or text transcripts be made available for any enrolled students. Therefore, it’s a good idea to write out your script word for word so you’ll have a transcript already prepared when you have finished recording. 

Set Up Your Webcam:

The most common camera option for self-recorded videos is a webcam. The webcams can be external (an add-on device that can be moved and repositioned) or internal (often built into a laptop, above the top of the screen). In this section, you will learn how to set up your computer webcam and position yourself for optimal recording. 

If you are using an external webcam, it is important to follow the installation and setup instructions that came with the device.

If you are using your computer’s built-in webcam, your webcam should already be set up. Next, you want to check your microphone settings before you begin recording. This allows you to verify that the proper microphone is being used to record your audio and that the volume is at the acceptable audio level for recording. The following online resources will help you set up and test your microphone: 

• How to setup and test microphones in Windows 10 (external link)
• Setup audio devices on iMac (Mid 2014) and later (external link)

Optimize the Lighting:

One of the most important elements of any recorded video is proper lighting. When recording a video, overhead lighting is often not enough as the lecturer's face may be too dark to make out any features. For the best results, use a combination of desk lamps, table lamps, and floor lamps---whatever you have on hand. Rather than pointing the light source directly at your face which can result in a washed-out appearance, position it at an angle to your body with the light shining toward your face.

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The process of recording yourself on video can be awkward or uncomfortable if you are not used to hearing and seeing yourself on video. It is normal to be self-critical or feel like you did not perform at your best in the video recording. The following advice will also help improve the quality of your recordings. Always remember that you are not expected to perform like a television or movie actor in your course videos. Here is some advice to help you look and feel more comfortable in front of a video camera. 

Modulate Your Voice

Avoid sounding monotone, vary the tone of your voice, as well as your speaking rate. If you’re using an external microphone for your audio, try to find and use a Pop Filter. A Pop Filter is a small screen that rests between you and the microphone that dampens “pops” from sounds like the “t” and “p.” These sounds create “pops” that go outside the normal audio recording range and decrease the audio quality.

Relax Your Movement

Try to relax on camera. You will appear more approachable to your audience if you appear relaxed. Avoid unnecessary distractions (e.g., sparkly jewelry, constantly shifting in your seat, etc). Slow your gestures, if you tend to “talk with your hands”, which can distract your audience. Also, swift movements don’t always translate well in the recorded audio and can make your movements appear blurry on video to the rapid motion. Apply this same rule to any objects you may be physically demonstrating or if you are using a screen capture (sharing your computer screen). Hold the object near the camera and move it slowly.

Be prepared

Keep your script nearby. If possible, keep your script open on the screen in front of you. Doing this will make it much less noticeable when you’re reading your script (since you won’t have to look away from the screen and the camera to do so). Remember to maintain eye contact with the webcam. If you’re recording a lot of videos in the same sitting, your throat may go dry and affect your ability to speak with consistency. Keep a glass of water nearby and take frequent breaks between recordings.

Save your video

One of the most overlooked areas of video creation is determining where to save your file, and what format to save it in. Ideally, you’ll want to save your video as an .MP4 file. This file format reduces the size of the video file without reducing the overall quality.

• Panopto is ISU's platform for capturing, storing, and sharing video content. See the Panopto TigerTracks articles (external link) for more information.
• ITRC has a multimedia production studio (in Pocatello) that faculty can reserve to record videos. In addition, the ITRC offers video production services, editing support, and graphic design service. Contact the ITRC (external link) to schedule a consultation or reserve studio time.
• Visit the ITRC Portal for answers to common questions (external link)
• For additional assistance email AnswersITRC@isu.edu (external link)