Types of Videos

Desktop Recording or “Screencasting”

Desktop recordings are for faculty who are creating course materials from their home or office using a personal computer. Desktop recordings typically use a webcam, a microphone, and a recording of the computer screen commonly called a “screencast”. Perform this self-contained method using any of the popular screencasting tools available for little or no cost. SPS provides faculty with the three following options for free. Use the links below to help decide which is right for your recordings, or use as many as needed!

• How-To Choose the Best Screencasting Software
• How-To Record a Video on Your Computer

SPS Studio

The SPS Studio is located in Abbott Hall on the third floor. It features a teleprompter, HD camera, and tablet for capture of handwritten annotations. Visit the DL Studio Page page to learn more.

Lightboard

The Lightboard, located in the Technological Institute, can be used by Northwestern faculty at no cost. While the Lightboard is built with advanced technology, its interface is simple and intuitive; the closest experience to lecturing in a traditional classroom. For anyone who wants to take advantage of the Lightboard’s ease of use, visit Lightboard.info to learn more and schedule a time to record videos.

Northwestern University Advanced Media Production Studio

Northwestern University Advanced Media Production Studio (NUAMPS) is a professional production team within Northwestern University Information Technology (NUIT), Academic & Research Technologies, dedicated to the service and advancement of multimedia applications in teaching and research. We partner with NUAMPS to produce high quality video lectures and promotional videos for courses. These videos require a high-level of pre-production work for both the faculty and the learning designer. Plan to commit at least a full business day in studio per video. To view a gallery of videos produced by NUAMPS. 

External Vendors

The Distance Learning team also contracts with outside vendors to produce videos. These videos require a high-level of pre-production work for both the faculty and the learning designer. Plan to commit at least a full business day on location per video. The Distance Learning team can coordinate shots on location, including locations outside the Chicago area.

These are examples of videos that have been produced using a professional video crew, including on campus and at remote locations.