Galactic Activity 34

There are instructional videos available online on every subject, teaching skills (learn to play an instrument, solve a Rubik’s cube, change oil in a car). YouTube and other sites allow anyone to submit video content. This activity is to deliver a final product instructional video.

Activity 34 – Instructional video

Duration: 5 -10 mins
Applicable Streams: Personal Challenge, Sales, Leadership, Learning & Development, Humour, Workplace Skills, Technical Content, Education

Aim

In this activity you are aiming to:

Record and deliver a polished instructional video.

Objectives

To do this, you will need to keep the following objectives in mind:

  1. Deliver a practical demonstration of an activity
  2. Record the presentation
  3. Edit the presentation to ensure a seamless and polished product – audio, video, and titles if required.

The Why…

Knowing how to record an instructional video is valuable in today’s digital age. It allows you to share knowledge effectively and engage a wider audience, transcending geographical limitations. Instructional videos enhance learning experiences by combining visual and auditory elements, making complex concepts easier to grasp. This skill is indispensable for educators, professionals, and content creators, enabling them to communicate ideas clearly and contribute to online learning platforms, professional development, and knowledge sharing.

Where do I start?

  • Choose a skill you’re familiar with enough to demonstrate and explain without needing to pause to reference notes.
  • Write a rough script to ensure you capture all points.
  • Decide on how to capture the footage including how to set up the camera and or microphone to get the best lighting and sound

The How

Specific guidelines on how to tackle this activity.

Your instructional video needs to be:

  • No longer than 8 minutes
  • No shorter than 2 minutes
  • Visual, and include a commentary that steps you through the process

Remember that:

  • Every mobile phone can take videos
  • Editing is not necessary but can be helpful to get a seamless experience
  • Your instructional video could be based on any basic skill for example
    • Wiring up a new stereo,
    • Fixing a puncture
    • Ironing a shirt
    • Using a piece of software
  • You’ll need to have a way of sharing it with the Club at a meeting – so either
    • Upload it onto YouTube or another platform and provide a link so Club members can watch it on their own devices OR
    • Use the technology in the meeting room to play the video for the whole audience at the meeting.

If you’re in doubt, search on YouTube for instructional videos and see the range of different ways you can create instructional videos.

Tips and traps

TIPS:

Recording a good instructional video involves several key steps to ensure clarity, engagement, and effectiveness.

  1. Plan and Script: Outline your content and create a script to maintain a clear structure. Define key points, transitions, and examples.
  2. Choose a Suitable Location: Select a quiet and well-lit space, preferably with minimal background distractions. Natural lighting or soft lighting equipment can enhance video quality.
  3. Quality Equipment: Use a good-quality camera, microphone, and tripod to ensure clear visuals and audio. External microphones can significantly improve sound quality.
  4. Background and Framing: Keep the background simple and uncluttered. Position yourself in the frame with some space above your head and maintain eye-level placement.
  5. Engaging Delivery: Speak clearly and with enthusiasm. Maintain a conversational tone, making sure to vary your pitch and pace to keep viewers engaged.
  6. Visual Aids: Incorporate visuals like slides or on-screen annotations to support your content. Keep them simple and relevant to avoid overwhelming viewers.
  7. Practice: Rehearse your content and delivery before recording. This helps you become more comfortable and minimises errors.
  8. Editing (optional): Edit your video to remove mistakes, pauses, or irrelevant sections. Enhance visual and audio quality, and add relevant transitions.
  9. Duration: Keep the video concise. Break down complex topics into shorter segments if needed.
  10. Clear Instructions: Provide step-by-step instructions, demonstrations, and practical examples to ensure viewers understand the content.
  11. Energy and Enthusiasm: Maintain a positive and energetic attitude throughout the video to keep viewers interested.
  12. Test Before Finalising: Watch your recorded video to ensure everything looks and sounds as intended before sharing it.

Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you record, the better you’ll become at delivering effective and engaging instructional content.

TRAPS:

  1. Don’t Overcomplicate: Avoid overly complex language, concepts, or visuals that can confuse viewers.
  2. Avoid Rambling: Steer clear of excessive talking without clear direction. Stick to the main points.
  3. Don’t Rush: Avoid speaking too quickly; it can make it hard for viewers to follow.
  4. Minimise Distractions: Don’t record in noisy or cluttered environments; distractions can divert attention.
  5. Avoid Poor Lighting and Sound: Insufficient lighting and low-quality audio can hinder viewer engagement.
  6. Avoid Lengthy Videos: Long videos may lead to viewer disinterest. Keep content concise.

Guidelines for Program Director: