Creating Instructional Videos

---

Microphones

• Laptop microphone
  • I do not recommend laptop built-in microphones, an external microphone can greatly increase quality.
• Blue Microphone 
  • ​USB microphones with excellent sound quality. Several models starting ~$50 USD.
  • No additional software required

Video Software

• There are many simple to use video editing software packages. These tree id videos were edited with Cyberlinker PowerDirector (~$120 USD). Some features to look for (besides cost):
  • ​Add a picture in picture (PiP) - for tree ID you can add a picture of a flower even if you are filming outside of the season
  • Titles and captions - most all video editing has the ability to add titles/captions
  • Add voice-over or music as a separate track
  • Split and added multiple videos with transitioning
  • Screen capturing ability
  • Some allow embedding of quizzes within a video
• VidGrid
  • Allows embedding of quiz questions within a video. 
  • Captures screen and webcam video, so the instructor can be onscreen with the presentation/demonstration.
  • Integrates with Canvas and creates small file sizes, but reasonable quality
  • Edit videos through a web interface
• CamStudio
  • Opensource and for Microsoft Windows only
  • can be buggy, but it's free
• Camtasia
  • Excellent screen capturing
  • Easy editing tools, including adding different tracks for narration and videos/photos.
• Zoom
  • Useful for recording your presentation even if you are only presenting to yourself - large file sizes
  • Has some ability to do auto captions, which is great for accessibility.

Classroom Lecture

Tree Identification

Engaging Children

Volunteer and Community Education