Tips for Video Lectures

Creating a Plan

· Research examples of video lectures

· Draft structure (beginning, middle & end)

· Write a script – include talking points, outline or details

· Provide a link to a copy of the text for students with special needs

· Announce name of program used for recording

· Provide copyright and citation information when necessary

Text & Fonts

· Use large text (50+ point)

· Use sans serif font (no “feet”) - Arial not Times New Roman

· Avoid ALL CAPS and miXiNg FoNts

· Use bold headings

· Be consistent with heading position

Images & Color

· Use relevant images/visuals that are legible & focus on the key point(s)

· Ensure careful placement & organization

· Use little or no text if there is an image on the slide

· Avoid overusing color

Adding Audio

· Use narration to enhance points and sync with visuals

· Get equipment and find a quiet location when recording

· Complete a test run

· Introduce recording using audio and visual highlights

· Edit pauses & mistakes

· Add interest with use of copyright-free music or images where appropriate

Length

· Follow K.I.S.S. (Keep it Short and Simple) – 5 to 10 minutes long

Format & Publish

· Design video lectures to be accessible on mobile devices in addition to laptops or desktop PCs

· Save in the preferred format of .mp4 or .mov (especially for iPhone and BlackBerry Smartphone)

· Publish to NOVA’s iTunes U or BB

· Consider using Wimba voice presentation in BB

· Avoid using Flash (Apple products will not open Flash files)

MLearning site: http://eli.nvcc.edu/mlearning/
Design Video: http://novaonline.nvcc.edu/Eli/Mlearning/videolecture/video/player.html