Most of the videos in this course have not been recorded in a professional studio. Chris Tuffnell has used his own equipment and office to record his videos. Carina Bois has used a Jabra microphone and Logitech web camera for the short introduction videos. For the screen recordings, including the voiceover to PowerPoint slides she has used a Sennheiser headset. You might be able to tell the difference in the sound quality but it will not impair your understanding of the contents. The aim of this page is to help you get started on creating your own videos for your course content. On this page you will find links to KI's staff portal regarding video creation as well as a few tips to on making the most of your video content using the equipment you have.

We hope to soon be able to provide a page with tips on low cost equipment to buy for those of you wanting guidance on setting up your home studio.

If you want to hear the difference between the microphones Carina Bois has used in this course you can go to the page M4 Extra Video clips using different microphones

A few simple tips for creating education videos

Use the equipment you already have: A webcam or mobile phone is sufficient for creating educational videos; the focus should be on useful content rather than high production value.
Audio quality is crucial: Invest in a dedicated lapel mic or USB microphone to enhance the delivery of your message, as built-in microphones often lack sufficient quality.
Lighting improves video quality: Good lighting, such as natural light or a light source behind the camera, can significantly enhance the visual appeal of your videos.
Focus on removing barriers: Addressing video, audio, and lighting concerns can help overcome obstacles and facilitate content creation.
Practical solutions: Utilize simple setups and affordable equipment to create effective educational videos without being hindered by the fear of complex gear requirements.

Beat fear of the gear to create education videos

In this video (4.36 min) Chris Tuffnell gives a little advice on what to think about when creating education video with regard to equipment. His starting point is VAL: Video, Audio, and Lighting. Which is the right camera? The right camera is the camera that you already have. So whether it's a webcam or your mobile phone, you're good to go. Remember, the aim of educational videos is not to produce a Hollywood-style production. Good audio is essential and you should invest in a USB microphone. Try to get good lighting behind your camera.

Your choice

If you prefer to read the trancript for this video you can open it in preview mode or download the Word file below.

M4.9 Beat fear of the gear .docx

On Camera Tips for Better Webcam Videos

On Camera Tips for Better Webcam Videos from UAB School of Nursing's resource course for instructors.
Here is the advice from the film above:

Setting up the Shot:

De-clutter the background. The area behind you communicates to your audience.
Step away from the wall. Being too close to a wall can make hard shadows and look like a mugshot.
Keep the camera at eye level. You can place your camera or laptop on books so that your audience isn't looking up your nose.
Don't place the camera too far or too close. Framing the shot with you head and shoulders looks natural and gives you room to move.
It is best to wear solid, muted colors. Clothing with small patterns and bright white/colors do not broadcast well

Basic lighting

Use natural lighting when possible. Face a window so that sunlight can illuminate your face. But have a backup plan such as a desktop light in case this isn't possible.
Overhead lighting can cause harsh and unflattering shadows. Placing a desk lamp a little above your head will cast good light onto your fac
Avoid shooting into a light source like a window. If this cannot be avoided, you may need to pull the shades or blinds

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Infographic: Thomas Nixon, Unit for Teaching and Learning

Checklist for KI videos

A video that represents Karolinska Institutet must reflect KI’s core values, as well as the people and environments that make up our university. It must also comply with guidelines regarding KI’s graphic profile and the use of images in communications, as well as the Act on the Accessibility of Digital Public Services and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR).

Go to KI's staff portal to read a checklist of things to bear in mind.

Setting up your home studio

These tips are mainly related to equipment and tips for your set up for online learning but you might find some tips helpful.

Go to KI's staff portal for tips on how to maximise your home studio

Tips for equipment for work and teaching at a distance

The right equipment makes working and teaching at a distance work better. Here are som tips for affordable equipment. Equipment can be ordered through the Wisum catalog from suppliers with purchasing agreements.

Go to KI's staff portal to see which equipment can be purchased via Wisum

Using video in your teaching (with links to KI resources)

This page provides links to all the KI guides for creating and using video with tools at KI.

Go the KI Canvas page with links to all the guides on using video in your teaching including pages on using My Media and Media Gallery in Canvas

Delve deeper

Video Production Best Practices (Columbia University Center for Teaching and Learning): This page takes educators through the process of setting up, recording, editing and publishing video recordings, and provides other technical considerations for creating active and engaging classroom experiences using video.

On this page: