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Screencasting
 
Say it, Show it, See it

Screencasting is a recording that captures the display of your computer and your voice. You could record any opertations on your computer such as a powerpoint, internet browsing, slide show or anything else. They are most often used as tutorials to show the technical process of a particular program but can be used for practically anything. They are normally saved as typical video files and are easily displayed on a computer or website. Depending on which provider you use, you might need to compress your video before uploading it to a website. To get started all you need is the free software, a video editing program (the one that came with your computer normally works) and a microphone.


Ways to use screencasting or screen capturing in the classroom

Tutorials- This is a great way to explain new concepts to students because they can watch them again and even from home if you place it on your website.  You can also capture a screen image and add arrows with text bubbles for a clear explanation of a page or program.

Narrating a Story- If you have a slideshow or story that you have created, simply scroll through the pictures and tell the story as you go.
Produce a more entertaining story by adding sound effects and music to it or get multiple people involved for different characters.

Editing or Explaining work- Instead of making notes to evaluate a piece of digital work, simply walk through the document on your computer and point out suggestions and make comments.


Free Screencasting Providers

Jing - This is an extremely user friendly screencasting and screen capturing program. After you download it, you can watch a screencast about using it (clever). Once you record a video you have the option of saving it to your computer or their website. If you choose their website, you will be sent a link to your video and you can publish that link on your website or send it by email, text or whatever. This means you don't need to worry about oversized video files. The program records the whole screen or just the part that you want and can zoom in while recording. The free version allows you to record up to five minutes of video. The screen capture feature lets you display arrows and text bubbles directly onto your captured image (or you can just send it to a paint program and do it yourself). It is available in PC or Mac
Camstudio - An open source program with some good editing features. Camstudio allows you to adjust the quality of the recording which means you can decrease the size of the video file. It records videos in AVI but comes with a producer program that can turn your videos into smaller Flash versions. The editing program can alter your voice, add effects and add a picture-in-picture of yourself to your video using your webcam. I have only seen a PC version of this program.
Wink- Freeware which I have personally not tried yet but claims a simple format and video recordings in small, web friendly flash versions.





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