Why should I create my own media?

Whether you’re creating or updating an online course or experimenting with blending online and face-to-face modes, rich, original media can improve your course. You can use audio or video to engage your students. The product you create can generate discussions, provide real-world examples, and offer students engaging opportunities to explore your carefully crafted messages. You can also easily create media products clarifying challenging aspects of your content. Opportunities abound to enhance your presence and provide your unique perspective. Rich media can do all these things and help improve the student learning experience in many dimensions.

How can I make some media?

The Do-It-Yourself model

There are many convenient tools for creating video materials right in your own office. For example, take a look at this video produced by Dr. Abel Bult-Ito for his online behavioral neuroscience course. This was created with a Mac laptop and a simple webcam. Dr. Bult-Ito used a cardboard box to hold a script just above and behind the camera. The results are excellent. This video is engaging and provides convenient access to Dr. Bult-Ito’s instructions for his students. There are more suggestions and details on how to make your own videos on CTL.

If video doesn’t appeal to you, consider making your own audio recordings or a podcast for your students. There is a guide and some great resources for making your own audio and podcast type products on CTL.

Call a friend

If the DIY method isn’t your thing, you can take advantage of the services offered through UAF CTL. We make professional media production as easy and painless as possible. We can help you record in your office, in your lab, or in our studio. Check out the variety of video products we can help you produce!

We can help you produce some audio materials as well. If you’re interested in adding this kind of rich media content to your course, let us know. Even if you prefer the DIY model, we can help with equipment and production advice to save you time and effort. If you would like more direct help, we’ll get you started. This is a great time to refresh your course, add some new media components, and improve the learning experience of your students.

Next week we’ll address a great way for your students to demonstrate their understanding with rich media. That’s where things really get exciting.

Here’s wishing you a great fall semester! Remember, we’re here to help.