Compare Video Recording Tools
There are multiple video recording tools available but which tool will be best for you? Below we have outlined solutions, rated them for the effort required, and identified key considerations.
Challenge
Research tells us that short videos can enhance student engagement and learning in online, hybrid, hyflex, or remote courses. But what video recording tools should you use and how do you get started? Below is an overview of the tools supported by the University and available to you at no additional cost. Refer to: Optimal Video Length for Student Engagement for more information
Solutions
To determine the best solution for your needs, the following selection criteria should be considered:
- Ease of Use
- Editing options
- Auto-generated captions and caption editing workflow
Kaltura
Kaltura Webcam Recorder (in Canvas)
Kaltura's webcam recorder can be used to create short (10 minutes or less) talking head videos. These recordings can be embedded in Canvas on any editable Page or resource, i.e., Assignment, Discussion, Announcement, or wherever the Canvas Rich Content Editor (RCE) is available. These video recordings can be viewed on mobile devices and computers.
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- Available for Mac and Windows (Recommended Browsers: Chrome or Firefox)
- Basic video editing options (trim start and/or end of clip)
- Access in Canvas' Rich Content Editor
- Auto-generated captions (up to 90% accurate)
Zoom
Zoom can be used to record your computer's screen, camera, and/or microphone. Although it is possible to temporarily store recordings in the cloud, it is recommended to save recordings to your local computer. Once saved, recordings can be uploaded to Kaltura (UMN media management system) and then shared in a Canvas course site.
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- Available for Mac and Windows (Recommended Browser: Chrome)
- Basic video editing options (trim start and/or end of clip)
- Access using Chrome Browser or Zoom Desktop Application
- Auto-generated captions (up to 90% accurate)
Kaltura
Kaltura Capture
Kaltura Capture allows instructors to create multiple kinds of video recordings, i.e., talking head video, voiceover presentations, screen capture, or audio-only. Once recorded, videos will be uploaded to Kaltura and can be embedded in Canvas on any editable Page or resource, i.e., Assignment, Discussion, Announcement, or wherever the Canvas Rich Content Editor (RCE) is available. These video recordings can be viewed on mobile devices and computers.
Recommended Resources
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- Available for Mac and Windows (Recommended Browsers: Chrome or Firefox)
- Basic editing options (trim start and/or end of clip)
- Access in Canvas' Rich Content Editor
- Auto-generated captions (up to 90% accurate)
ScreenPal
ScreenPal allows instructors to create multiple kinds of video recordings, i.e., talking head video, voiceover presentations, screen capture, or audio-only. The UMN does not provide cloud storage for ScreenPal - you must save your recordings to your local computer. Once saved, recordings can be uploaded to Kaltura (UMN media management system) and then shared in a Canvas course site.
Even though ScreenPal is capable of generating "open" captions for your recordings, we recommend you upload to Kaltura and use the auto-generated closed captions through that system.
Recommended Resources
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- Available for Mac and Windows
- Robust editing options
- Access using Chrome Browser or ScreenPal Desktop Application
- Recordings need to be uploaded manually
VoiceThread
VoiceThread allows instructors to create video recordings that are embedded in an online multimedia presentation. These presentations can be shared in a Canvas course site for students to view and/or comment. To view VoiceThread recordings on mobile devices users will need to download the VoiceThread mobile application.
Recommended Resources
Effort Required
Key Considerations
- Available for Mac and Windows
- Access via your browser
- Basic editing options (Re-recording individual slides)
- Auto-generated captions (up to 90% accurate)