Screencasts
Screencasts are video creations that can be used for instructional purposes in the classroom, library, and just about anywhere. The possibilities for using screencasts are endless. There are numerous web applications online that allow you to create a free account and record screencasts. Of course, there are limitations to the number of recording you are allowed with a free account.
Screencast-o-matic
The first web application I tried was Screencast-o-matic which is a screencasting and video editing software tool that does need to be download into your computer. Screencast-o-matic was extremely user-friendly and I was able to record and upload my video recording within minutes. I decided to make a recording that I can utilize in the classroom. I always start by school year with science fair and every year students always have a difficult time finding science fair project ideas. I talked to my librarian about the issue and she has provided science fair websites on the library web page for student to have easy access to project ideas. In this recording, I am demonstrating where to locate and reviewing the science fair project websites. This video will be a huge help in the classroom starting August!
Icecream Screen Recorder
Before trying Icecream Screen Recorder, I did try Jing but had numerous failed attempts with downloading the software. Compared to Screencast-o-matic, which was extremely quick and simple to download, when downloading Icecream Screen Recorder it took longer and in my opinion was more difficult. When I was able to open up the program, I was lost and confused with the program. It took me a while to understand the program and finally record a video. I decided to continue with my idea of science fair videos. Every year I have to demonstrate how to construct a data chart on Excel. Even after a class presentation, I will always have students come back asking if I can explain it again. Having a video prepared for them to go back and review will be a great support in the classroom. One last note, Icecream Screen Recorder has a limit of 5 minutes and at the end of my recording the video cuts off. Of course, you can upgrade your account for a fee and not have any time limits.
Favorite Screencast Application: Screencast-o-matic
Screencast-o-matic was easy and simple to download, extremely user-friendly, and allows more recording time. Screencast-o-matic is a excellent resource that can be beneficial anywhere, especially in education. My science fair screencasts are just two example of screencasts that can be utilized in the classroom. I will definitely be working Screencast-o-matic as an instructional tool in the classroom from now on! Exceptional resource!
Thank you for sharing ways to use screencasts for instructional purposes. Parents will appreciate these step-by-step procedures as well. Do you post them to a YouTube account that students have access to? How do you share with students or just in class sharing? Aside from the free resource to try screencast-o-matic, I wonder how great the options are when you have to pay for them. The possibilities will probably be endless.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing ways to use screencasts for instructional purposes. Parents will appreciate these step-by-step procedures as well. Do you post them to a YouTube account that students have access to? How do you share with students or just in class sharing? Aside from the free resource to try screencast-o-matic, I wonder how great the options are when you have to pay for them. The possibilities will probably be endless.
ReplyDeleteI looked into Icecream Screen Recorder, but was discouraged with the downloading elements of it. If looked very multi-step and complicated. However, I also enjoyed using Screencast-O-Matic like you. I loved the basic and easy steps to creating a screecast. I love the ideas of integrating Screencast-O-Matic with the Science Fair. Awesome!
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas on how to use screencasts in the classroom! I too had trouble with Jing and had to give up and move on to another program. Great job!
ReplyDelete