Course Guide Videos
Introduction
In the interest of increasing enrollment in CEHD courses, and to meet the needs of CEHD students, the Dean’s office would like to encourage faculty and instructors to record two minute introductory videos to feature on the U of MN’s Course Guide website (One Stop).
Courses that have course guides have shown to increase their enrollment by more than 100 percent! We would like to see if enrollment increases even more when video introductions are used in the course guides. The final video can be used for a number of semesters.
After the video is completed, instructors are responsible for uploading the final video. Please read the instructions for uploading video to the Course Guide. For complete information on uploading file to please visit One Stop Course Guide.
Explanation
The introductory video provides potential students an additional source of information when selecting courses. Through video, students can gain insight into instructors’ nonverbal cues and personal perspectives on the course being offered. Ideally the video would not reiterate information in the text description but presents observations and points of interest that peak students’ curiosity.
In the course guide, an introductory video would be accessed by clicking on the video icon next to the course description, and the video appears in a pop-up window.
The CEHD Academic Technology Services team (ATS) will take care of all of the technical aspects of creating these videos – all instructors need to do is come up with what they wish to say as an introduction to their course! See sample below:
As an instructor, you may book time in the Morrill Hall studio for free by submitting this intake form or the ATS team to meet you in your office for a more candid appearance. Time slots will be available on a first-come, first-served basis; and each individual recording session should take no more than a half hour.
Details
For instructors interested in recording introductory videos, we have some considerations, scheduling options, talking points, and tips for you.
Considerations
What video recording method is best for you? Please choose a method that best fits your personality and teaching style.
Teleprompter: Using a teleprompter will allow you to read your prepared statement while on camera with little rehearsal, and your eyes will appear to be looking into the camera. Sometimes these videos can seem cold or “forced.”
On location/in your office: Recording an introduction without a teleprompter will generally yield a more personal video; they usually retain a warmer, more informal tone.
Scheduling options
You can schedule a video session by sending an email to cehdats@umn.edu. Please indicate days/hours that work best for you and your preference:
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Teleprompter in Morrill Hall B1 (located in the basement). Please fill out the Electronic Courseguide Service Request form to begin the process.
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In your office/on location
We will reply with a confirmation ASAP.
Suggested talking points and scripting notes
- Normal conversational pace is about 2-3 words per second. For a 2-minute video, your script should be between 250 and 300 words. Less is fine too; a little more won’t be punished.
- Introduce yourself and the course.
- Mention your professional interests, research and/or outreach.
- Briefly discuss a current project as it relates to your teaching.
- Wish students the best in their coursework.
Tips for being on camera
Avoid clothing with large patterns or geometric shapes. Keep jewelry at a minimum; avoid flashy jangly jewelry. No logos. Bring water to drink to avoid dry mouth.
Summary
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Academic Technology Services team at cehdats@umn.edu. We look forward to working with you and hope that creating course guide videos is a rewarding experience for you!