What actually is Screencasting?
Screencasting is a digital recording of everything that appears on your screen. It is often accompanied by narration, which tends to be an explanation of what is on screen. There are many different technologies that allow you to create a screencast, but one that we would advise you try is Screenr. Screenr is a free online service and allows you to record videos in 5 minute chunks which should be enough time for you squeeze your content in. If however you need to create screencasts which are longer than this than there is other software available we can recommend.
How can I use it to support my Teaching and Learning?
Depending on your learners and topic, you may be considering different ways to use screencasts to support teaching and learning.
| Uses in FE | Uses in HE |
| To create ‘how to’ demonstrations. | To create ‘how to’ demonstrations. |
| To produce learning materials could be created e.g. The structure and function of the heart. | To develop and support on-line study skills e.g. how to reference. |
| To provide learner feedback. | To provide student feedback. |
| To create video assessments e.g. critically analysing video footage. | To create video assessments e.g. critically analysing video footage. |
| To enhance PowerPoint presentations. | To support complex diagrams and figures. |
These just scratch the surface of how screencasting software can be used but to get started all you need is a microphone (most college laptops will have them built it). If however you decide you do want to create a batch of videos to provide learner feedback for example, there is a recording suite (Carel 4) in the library which will allow you to produce better audio and therefore better feedback.
Currently we promote the use of Screenr which is online based and free. To get more information about using Screenr either visit our page on StaffZone or come and see us in L101.