When Designing online instructional assignments and modules here are few best practices to keep in mind when creating content and selecting media for inclusion into your course.
#1 Keep videos concise
- Aim for 5-10 minutes per video
- Break longer topics into multiple short videos
- Focus on one key concept per video
2. Ensure high audio quality
- Use a good microphone
- Record in a quiet environment
- Speak clearly and at an appropriate pace
3. Provide clear visuals
- Use legible fonts and high-contrast colors
- Include relevant images, diagrams, or slides
- Avoid cluttered or distracting backgrounds
4. Structure content effectively
- Start with an outline of topics to be covered
- Use signposting to guide viewers through the material
- Summarize key points at the end
5. Engage your audience
- Maintain an enthusiastic and conversational tone
- Use examples and analogies to illustrate concepts
- Pose questions to encourage active thinking
6. Make videos accessible
- Include accurate closed captions or transcripts
- Use descriptive language for visual elements
- Ensure sufficient color contrast for readability
7. Integrate with course materials
- Align video content with learning objectives and assessments
- Reference relevant readings or assignments
- Provide follow-up activities or discussion prompts
8. Encourage active viewing
- Embed quiz questions within videos
- Assign note-taking tasks or worksheets
- Have students summarize or apply video content
9. Consider technical aspects
- Use a platform that's easily accessible to students such as Canvas Studio, YouTube, Playposit or GoReact.
- Ensure videos can be paused, rewound, and played at variable speeds
- Optimize file sizes for smooth playback on various devices
10. Gather and incorporate feedback
- Solicit student input on video effectiveness
- Monitor viewing analytics to identify areas for improvement
- Regularly update and refine your video content