Screencastify
Another EASY Way to Get Into Screencasting
Use a Chrome Extension! Screencastify is a Chrome extension, and one of the easiest to use - "video for everyone" is their tagline and it's definitely appropriate. There is a free version with plenty of features -- so try that out first. If you find yourself using it a lot, consider getting the Premium version (normally $49 per year, but as an educator you can get it for $29 per year).
Get all the details here. Links to an external site.
Screencasting Tips:
- With screencasting, everything on your screen gets captured (unless you are capturing a selection), so make sure to clean up your desktop if it's in view, hide private stuff and for the love of... turn off your notifications.
- Plan out what you're going to say (outlines are better than scripts for most people).
- Adding a mic will make a HUGE difference.
- Pay attention to the sound environment - try to eliminate distracting sounds as much as possible.
- Record only the section(s) of your screen that you need your viewer to see for a more focused video.
- BUT also be aware of your desired aspect ratio of the final video. Videos are typically 16:9, which is a widescreen aspect ratio with a width of 16 units and height of 9. (Since 2009, it has become the most common /em>aspect ratio for TVs and computer monitors). So if you are recording a section of your screen, remember that you'll have borders to deal with (the dreaded "black bars.")
- If you'll be recording yourself as you talk (using a webcam, built-in or external camera), be aware of the placement of the camera. LOOK at the LENS as much as possible so the viewers feel you are talking to them. Try to get the camera at or slightly above eye level if possible. Use books to prop up your laptop if you are using the laptop camera. Otherwise, viewers will be looking up your nose.
- Also look at your background and make sure there's nothing back there that is distracting or inappropriate
- Length? Well, that depends on the density of your content. If you're expressing a clear and simple idea, don't go on and on about it unnecessarily. BUT, if it's complex and requires a lot of explanation, then by all means, take the time you need to explain it properly.
- "Things should be made as simple as possible - but no simpler." Albert Einstein
- Pay attention to your mouse cursor.
- Don't "talk" with your cursor like you talk with your hands - don't try to express yourself using your cursor.
- SLOW DOWN your mouse cursor... don't fly around with it on the screen. Viewers will follow it like a cat watching a fish in a fishbowl. Don't make them dizzy.
- If you are explaining mouse actions (showing viewers where to click on a web page for example), go extra slow and add arrows or highlights in your editor after the recording if possible
- Remove mistakes if possible with your editor after the recording.