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1.1 Prepare yourself for video production

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You're likely thinking of using some type of video format in your module. There are many things to consider while selecting a method for your content generation.

Here are a few to keep in mind:

  1. How much time do you have to devote to creation? The timeline for your project will have a large factor in determining what technique you'll implement. It is critical to evaluate how long each video takes to create and produce, how many videos you'll require to encompass your content, and how many hours you have to work on the project before launch.
  2. How technically inclined are you? Different personalities enjoy the video creation process differently. Some people shine on camera, while some excel on the technical end (and a lucky few can do both!). Play to your strengths and ask yourself honestly whether you have the time and the desire to learn a new software suite, to invest in hardware, to test your video process, and to produce and upload video content - as well as the other pieces that compose your project.
  3. How many videos will you be producing? As with your timeline, the scope of the content of your project will also be a limiting factor. If you're creating content that equates to a full course, you will likely need to come up with a process that is easy to reproduce (while maintaining quality). If you're creating one or two special topic videos, you might be able to spend more time and budget on higher production values (ex. on site shooting).
  4. Do you have any budget for assistance? Depending on your Faculty, you'll have different built in options for pedagogical and technical support. The first step would be to investigate options for support that you already have available to you. Secondly, if you have a budget, you can look at hiring support, buying equipment and software, or another option that helps you accomplish your project.

When selecting a method, it is important to consider not only the time it will take for development but also that your method (and your end product) correspond with your pedagogical goals and learning objectives.

You'll likely choose to use a combination of options, depending on the nature of your content. For example, many online courses have had a positive response when each week began with a on-camera brief welcome and overview (under 30s), followed by chapters of content (the equivalent of the content that would have been covered in lecture that week), and supplemented with at home webcam videos to answer any questions that popped up during the week. This provided a nice blend of personality with professional and easily re-usable content.

Looking for more details about commonly used video formats? See the full details on "An Overview of Different Formats for Video Production."

Next Article 1.2 Review of popular video styles (e.g. Khan Academy, TedTalk, Masterclass, etc.)
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