Lon A. Smith
Abstract
Camtasia Studio is an inexpensive screen recording software that allows the user to create multi-platform video and audio recordings of anything that can be displayed or demonstrated on a computer screen, including computer labs assignments, the use of integrated development environments, PowerPoint lectures, demonstrations of Java applets, and software tutorials. Picture-in-picture video is also possible with the addition of an inexpensive web camera. With this screen recording software, a multitude of possibilities exist for developing learning objects and enhancing existing ones, which can then be easily integrated into both in class and online instruction.
Camtasia Studio is a screen recording package that captures both the video and audio components of any activity that can be demonstrated or presented on a computer screen including PowerPoint lectures, demonstrations of Java applets, software tutorials, computer labs assignments, demonstrations of integrated development environments, and much more. This format appeals to both auditory and visual learners. These videos can be converted to Flash, Media Player, Real Player, QuickTime, streaming Flash videos, and even pod casts, which then can be made available for easy viewing on the Internet.
Viewing by the students, as well as creating the videos, is simple. All that is needed to view these videos is the current plug-in for the video format used and an updated browser. The Camtasia Studio software package and a microphone is all that is needed to create the videos. With the addition of a web camera, picture-in-picture is possible. Recording PowerPoint lectures in video format, brings distance learners into the classroom lectures and preserves the classroom discussions for those who are absent or merely need to see or hear the content one or more time. Camtasia Studio not only records the text and images that are shown on the screen, but it also captures all animations, transitions, and any markings that the presenter may add during the lecture.
Camtasia is also perfect for creating tutorials for software packages and learning management systems. When demonstrated in the classroom, the demonstrated actions are often too quick or too difficult to see. But with Camtasia, the viewer has everything directly in front of him or her, available for easy viewing and re-viewing. Likewise, many learning objects utilize written explanations and instructions in conjunction with java applets. For those who understand the concepts behind the object, it is rather easy to understand how to use the learning objects and see their educational value, but for the average student who is being directed to these learning objects through oftentimes brief demonstrations, the purpose and means of use is not so clear. Through video screen recorders such as Camtasia, instructors can record a demonstration of a learning object that walks the student through the use of the object, helps the student discover its purpose and then encourages the student to utilize it.
Index Terms
- Using Camtasia to develop and enhance online learning: tutorial presentation
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