The first step in creating any video is to determine the purpose of the video. Is the video meant to provide students with an introduction to the topics for that week? Maybe to show them how to navigate the course? Possibly to introduce a new, complex course topic?

Before developing the content for a video, it is helpful to jot a few topics that will be discussed in the video. For example, let's start with what may be covered in an introductory or welcome video.

An introductory, welcome video may include:

A welcome to the students, including introducing yourself, your title, and field of expertise
Course number/name and how the course fits into the curriculum of the program
The importance or reason for this course, and how or why this course is relevant to the students
How the course is designed/organized and delivered to students
How/why the course design will help the students achieve the course goals and learning objectives
Expectations for student participation
Special instructions for assessments or assignments.

Try It!

Do you have a welcome video posted at the beginning of your course? If not, let's create one and provide closed captioning in YouTube. Feel free to use an existing welcome video that you would like to revisit. The following pages will guide you through the steps.

Please note: this course will provide the opportunity to apply new skills learned; however, the course assumes the participant is familiar with video production and screen-casting basics.

Quick Tip!

If you would like to use this video for multiple semesters, it is advised to omit information that will vary based on semester (assignment dates, any mention of current semester events, or any information that will change every semester.)