Wouldn’t it be great if you could show the parts of My Computer, teach how the Start Menu works, and explain the toolbars in Internet Explorer at the same time to an unlimited number of users in many different locations? This is now possible with a technique called Screen Capture Video.

Screen Capture Video allows you to make training videos for virtually any software and post them on a website for your staff to view at a time that is convenient for them. This approach contrasts sharply with the traditional technical or Instructional Technology training most school systems provide.

What are some traditional ways of disseminating technical information?

Generally, the traditional ways of disseminating technical and Instructional Technology information are using technical manuals, reading Help files, conducting website searches, showing still screen shots, and conducting computer-training classes with an onsite instructor.

What is Screen Capture Video?

Screen Capture Video captures the movements of the mouse and computer software on the computer monitor. These movements are saved in video format. Audio narration may be added to enhance the video. Other enhancements include incorporating screen and audio highlights such as mouse click sounds, callouts and labels. Common video formats can be selected such as avi, wmf, Quicktime mov, gif, Flash swf, and Real Media RM streaming video. The finished video can be accessed through a hard drive, CD Rom, via email, a share drive, or a web site.

Who can use it?

Screen Capture Video can be used by anyone who needs to train or teach a computer skill. This includes but is not limited to Instructional Technology Specialists and Coordinators , Network and Software Specialists , Tech Support Specialists , Curriculum Specialists and Coordinators , Teachers , and Administrators.

What software is used?

Quite a few companies sell Screen Capture Video software. Some recommended software packages for Screen Capture Video are Techsmith’s Camtasia , KnowledgePresenter’s ScreenTeacher , and Matchware’s Mediator . Click on the link below for links to these companies’ websites.

http://fc.dekalb.k12.ga.us/~web_builder/video/software.htm

What is the time investment required to make a video tutorial?

The time required to make a video depends on the complexity of the functions being described and the experience of the video creator. An experienced video creator can make a simple 45-second video in about 15 minutes. Most of the web-distributed and LAN-distributed videos should not exceed 1 to 2 minutes. This will ensure a small file size for downloading and minimize server-based storage. An added plus for creating brief videos is the ability to break the learning into manageable parts.

What distribution strategies are practical with respect to size of the final document?

The final document distribution strategy depends on the audience, how the training is accessed, and the connection speed of the network. Web-based and LAN-based videos reach a wider audience, but the file sizes must be smaller. It is more labor intensive to break a larger video into smaller parts in order to attain a reasonable download time. If bandwidth and server space are more than adequate, then web-based or LAN-based training will be ideal. If teachers or students are accessing the training at home and dial-up speed is prevalent or if the file sizes must be large, then CD ROMs may be a better way to distribute the training videos.

What are the benefits of screen capture video?

Screen Capture videos facilitate technical training, maximize staff time, provide flexibility for the learner, use multiple learning modalities, and reach large numbers of people.

How much does it cost?

A single license ranges from $150 to $2,000

Click below for some examples of Screen Capture Video:
http://fc.dekalb.k12.ga.us/~web_builder/video/examples.htm