Screencasts are narrated video recordings of your computer screen. They can be used for many educational purposes including instruction, tutorials, and even professional development. There are many online applications that will help you create free screencasts. After analyzing several, I decided to create two screencasts using Screencastify and Screencast-O-Matic.
Screencastify
Screencastify is a Chrome extension that lets you capture, edit, and share quality videos in seconds. The free lite membership allows you to record 50 videos per month. Premium unlimited video recording can be available for a yearly fee of $24. It is extremely easy to set up to your computer. The Screencastify overview video provided, helps you become familiar with all the options available. You can select to record the browser tab, desktop, or the webcam only. Annotation tools such as a spotlight are also available to direct your viewers’ eye. Once the video is finished, it can be shared through Google drive or YouTube. Premium subscribers are able to edit, crop, and enhance videos. The screencast below is a short tour of the Southmost Elementary Library along with games students can play to learn more about the library system.
Screencast-O-Matic
Screencast-O-Matic is a screencasting web application tool that is easy to set up to your browser. You can sign up for free, however, additional features are available for a yearly fee. Recording a video is very simple and editing options are available. It also allows you to easily integrate with the tools you are already using such as Microsoft teams and Google Classroom. The following screencast talks about Seesaw, an incredible app that allows students to create an online portfolio to record what they are learning.
Overall, my favorite screencast application is Screencastify. It is very easy to set up and the overview video makes it very simple to start recording. It is definitely an incredible instructional tool that lets teachers and students communicate in a unique and creative way. Screencastify can be used in a variety of ways such as explaining difficult concepts, or demonstrating specific instructions. It can also be used for teachers to learn about different students apps that can be integrated to their curriculum.
I didn't get to work with Screencastify. Seems like a web app that most teachers would love to use since it is so easy to use. I love how your voice is so enthusiastic and entertaining. Kids probably wont get bored of listening to our screencasts.
ReplyDelete