Deric Learman

Faculty Voices Series: Course Videos Supporting Student Learning

Deric Learman, Biology

It took a global pandemic for me to realize that recording videos could be a tool that was helpful when teaching.  I’d previously thought that it was too much to learn, too labor-intensive, and just not helpful/applicable for my teaching style.  I also thought it was just for lecture material.  With the rapid move to remote teaching (Spring 2020), I was able to use CIS on-demand material to quickly learn the software and process of recording and posting course content on my own. I was surprised by how easy it was to record material and how this was still able to provide engaging material for my students.  Through this, and after talking with colleagues, I came to realize videos aren’t just for lectures, and I saw new opportunities for recorded video in my classes. For example, I could record pre and post explanations for assignments and exams, outside speaker podcasts to supplement course material, and even preparatory information for lab classes or in-class activities.

 

Also, it didn’t take me long to realize that my “low tech” recording locations (home and campus offices) didn’t quite produce the high-quality video and audio product that I wanted.  This nudged me to learn about the CIS Makerspaces, where, as it turns out, I could easily schedule and use to make high-quality videos.  CIS staff were able to give me training on what I needed to get started in their studios and they also provided some feedback about screen presence and presentation.  The overall impact on my teaching is that I now find more ways to communicate course information and engage students with course material and I even continue to see new areas where video can (and does!) support student learning outside of scheduled class times.

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