Options for Creating Media-Based Instructor Presence
By Tamara Mitchell, Sangeetha Kirsnan, and Narin Loa
Value of Instructor Presence
As an educator, you know how important it is to have a strong online presence and build a sense of community with your students. While instructor videos may seem intimidating at first, they can be extremely effective in accomplishing both goals.
Many Ways to Record
Although being on camera can be uncomfortable for some people, there are options for creating instructor videos to help mitigate that discomfort. Let’s take a look at a few of those options.
Instructor video in the corner of the screen
This allows you to show your face in a smaller format, but still connect with your students visually. You can still have your voice as the primary focus, but having your face in the corner can help add a personal touch to your online instruction.
Background footage mixed with instructor footage
This option allows you to use footage of your environment or surroundings as the background, while you appear on camera in a smaller format. This can add some variety to your videos and help make them feel more engaging and dynamic.
Voiceover PowerPoint
This option allows you to add a voiceover to a slideshow or presentation, so you don’t have to be on camera. This can be a great option for those nervous about appearing on camera but still wanting to connect with their students through audio.
Try Something New
Instructor videos are essential for improving instructor presence and forming a learning community. Determine which options would best enhance your instructor presence and support your students. Options like voiceover PowerPoint, instructor video in the corner of the screen, and background footage mixed with instructor footage can make the process less intimidating. So don’t be afraid to try using instructor videos in your online teaching; you might just be surprised at how much they can help you connect with your students.
Instructional Design and New Media Support
Are you ready to take the next step? Many universities and organizations have instructional designers and media developers that can provide resources to jumpstart your video scripting process. If you are at ASU, consider partnering with the Instructional Design and New Media team. Professional media production ensures high-quality video, sound, and editing. Drawing on their media expertise and knowledge of best practices, the media team will help you display a polished audio and video presence. For faculty located out-of-state, set up a virtual consultation with the team to explore available services. Let the media team work on video production, while you focus on delivering valuable content.
Resources
Use the resources below to reach out to a team of professionals to help facilitate the best experience for you and your students!
Additional Articles
- The Importance of Instructor Presence
- Instructor Presence
- Options for Creating Media-Based Instructor Presence Infographic
Tamara Mitchell is a Sr. Instructional Designer with ASU Online IDNM. She has over a decade of experience as an instructional designer for higher education and private industry. She has also taught online classes for seven and a half years. Tamara holds a Masters in Informational Technology and Instructional Design and a Masters in English Language and Literature. During her time in higher education, she has worked with faculty to write media scripts and utilize media resources.
