improving quality Archives

Steps to Improving Online Learning Video Production

rbaltrip-admin2024-03-29T13:39:50+00:00Digital Learning, Education, Learning Innovation, Management|

High-quality video is an essential component of engaging online courses. In 2017, while at William & Mary, I teamed up with Instructional Design Specialist Josh Chung to present at the Online Learning Consortium (OLC). Our presentation, "Steps to Improving Online Learning Video Production", offered practical strategies and insights for educational institutions seeking to enhance the quality and impact of their online learning videos. Presentation Summary: A Roadmap to Better Online Videos The Challenge Online learning videos can range from basic and uninspiring to highly polished and effective. Understanding models and processes for continuous improvement is essential. Profiles: Basic, Better, Best We outlined three broad categories of video quality (Basic, Better, and Best). Each level reflects increasing commitment to production elements and creativity. We stressed that the goal should be consistent improvement across these levels. The Production Process The presentation highlighted three key phases of video production: Pre-Production: The essential planning stage involving vision, administrative support, and resource allocation. Production: The active filming process, emphasizing attention to detail, technical quality, and faculty guidance. Post-Production: Editing, polishing, and finalizing videos, with an eye toward clarity and engagement. Six Production Models We presented six common models for online video creation, ranging from simple to complex: Screen Capture, PowerPoint, Live Class Capture, Whiteboard/Lightboard, and Studio/Location shoots. Investing for Improvement Across all models, moving from "Basic" to "Better" levels requires investment in time, expertise, technical resources, and administrative support. Reaching the "Best" level often involves significant commitment to high-quality production. Key Takeaways The presentation emphasized these core ideas for improving online learning video quality: Creativity is Key: Regardless of your budget, creativity and thoughtful execution can elevate video quality significantly. Process Matters: A clear framework for pre-production, production, and post-production ensures smoother processes and better results. Invest Wisely: Understand the resource demands of each production model to choose the most sustainable approach [...]

How to Improve the Visual Appeal of an Online Program

rbaltrip-admin2024-03-29T13:38:58+00:00Digital Learning, Education, Learning Innovation|

How to Improve the Visual Appeal of an Online Program Introductory note: In the early-to-mid 2010's, I had lead an online learning program to drastically improve its collective visual appeal. In the early-to-mid-2010s, online video and graphics was not as easy and abundant as it would be a decade later. So, those insights and lessons learned were turned into a key presentation that I gave at a conference. While I can't find the slide deck, I did find the presentation script (for some reason I have that!). So, below is a script from the presentation on how to improve the visual appeal of an online program - highlighting the need, the steps taken, and the lessons learned along the way. Presentation Script Let's face it. Online learning can really stink. It can be so boring, monotonous, and unstimulating that it produces a colorless odor that sucks life and motivation out of our students. Online learning's stench can fill the heavens above and permeate the plains below. As the leader of an online learning program, my goal is to do my best to develop an online program that does not stink. Instead of exposing them to a foul, repulsive odor, I would rather expose students to a pleasing aroma. But the question is how? How can I help develop and create an online program that has a pleasing aroma and does not stink? That's a huge question. It is also a broad one. To create an online program that leaves students with a please aroma--a successful learning experience, there are many factors to consider. We will need to save the answer to that huge, broad question for another article, another book, or another conference on another day. However, our purpose here is to examine one facet of this larger question. Here, we [...]

From Spielberg to Screen Capture: Creating Quality Online Videos

rbaltrip-admin2024-03-29T13:38:40+00:00Digital Learning, Education, Learning Innovation|

Nearly a decade ago, Kristen Ferguson and I had the privilege of presenting this content at the Online Learning Consortium's Fall Conference in Orlando. The technical considerations, presentation elements, models, and administrative considerations for creating quality online videos for online learning remain true today. Below is a summary of presentation and the slide deck we used. From Spielberg to Screen Capture: Creating Quality Online Videos Online videos are essential to modern online learning, but quality matters. Good educational videos engage students with visuals, audio, and active learning strategies. Bad videos can be confusing, ineffective, and even hinder learning. A quality video balances clear, compelling content with strong technical aspects. Technical Considerations for Creating Quality Online Videos Length: Short videos are best. 6 minutes is ideal, with 15 minutes as a generous maximum. Longer videos risk losing student attention. Framing: The "rule of thirds" makes compositions visually appealing. Avoid putting subjects directly in the center of the screen. Focus: Subjects should be clearly focused. Audio: Keep audio consistent, clear, and free of background noise. Lighting: Lighting should be sufficient without glare. Stability: Avoid shaky videos unless specifically for stylistic effect. Graphics: Use clean, undistorted graphics that support your message. Presenting Your Content Look at the camera to simulate direct eye contact with learners. Be conversational. Speak naturally to establish a connection. Outlining and scripting can help for complex lectures. Plan your production, including time estimates and a teleprompter if needed. The Practical Aspects for Creating Quality Online Videos Beyond technical elements, the best online videos prioritize: Clear Audio: Students must be able to understand all spoken content. Cognitive Load: Avoid overwhelming learners with too much information at once. Active Learning: Integrate video with activities so students use the knowledge they're gaining. Teaching Presence: Strive for a personal touch, even in a digital format. Authenticity: Let your personality shine through for greater engagement. 6 Production Models for Creating [...]