Lecture Capture

Lecture capture is an encompassing term describing any technology

that allows instructors to record what happens in their classrooms

and make it available digitally. The term is used to describe a wide

array of software, system capabilities, and hardware options. (ELI, 2008)

LEDS regularly consults with faculty to plan for successful lecture capture using a desktop computer capture approach. We are available to assist community members with the creation of digital content in order to reach the appropriate audience during or outside class using theSpring, WordPress or other webpages where recordings can be shared with the intended audience.

Why is Lecture Capture important?

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Students can re-visit difficult concepts at their own pace they may not have fully understood the first time presented

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Allow more time for interactions and activities that let students practice, demonstrate and apply their knowledge in-class while learning from each other

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Allows non-native speakers of English to re-watch, look up and clarify any misunderstood content covered in class

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Students also can use the software to practice presentation delivery and interviewing skills for feedback and coaching

Using recording software installed on a Mac or Windows computer, the desktop capture approach involves the use of a webcam and/or mic to record oneself at the classroom podium with or without screen sharing enabled. The recording application may come with lightweight-editing software and double as the hosting platform and server where the video recordings are stored and accessed.

Due to a sharp increase in licensing costs, as of August 2019 Panopto will be discontinued. All video content on Panopto has been exported and can be imported into the new lecture capture software, Anthem, on faculty request. The Anthem software is part of the Ensemble Video platform which allows for seamless publication of video content directly into the LMS (Blackboard, Brightspace, etc.). The addition of the Anthem to the College’s existing Ensemble Video subscription is an ideal match for service and cost.

LEDs recommends Anthem which can be installed on any computer at the College. Other desktop capture applications available include Screenflow and Captivate which are available in the Learning Lab in Library 222. Additionally, Zoom can be used to capture a presentation along with one’s voice and/or video.¬† More information about finding the best tool for your scenario may be found here.

Anthem

Overview
Anthem is a self-service tool that lets faculty create playback video recordings of their computer display, PowerPoint or Keynote presentations, along with voice and optional video feed. It also has annotation and assessment features available.

For faculty who use Brightspace, Anthem can be initiated from within the course and made available to students immediately after class or at a later time. It is also possible to use Anthem without Brightspace.

Equipment
Most podium computers are not equipped with a camera or mic because it is nearly impossible to secure them. IT has loaner webcams available or you may purchase your own. We recommend the use of a webcam that comes with a built-in mic. Media Services loans out Logitech C190 webcams.

Software

Anthem requires the use of its Recorder application. It is downloaded and installed on your Mac or Windows computer from within a Brightspace course. For use with a classroom podium computer, you must submit an IT Help Desk ticket or contact LEDS to request an Anthem installation on either the Mac or PC podium computer. If you’re using your own laptop, you can easily install it yourself without IT assistance.

Login to theSpring and navigate to your course. In the course menu, click on the + and Tool Link. The + symbol is mostly obscured by the white X in the purple box so you will most likely not see it readily. Be sure to the click on the lower right hand corner of the purple box just where a small circle can be seen shown below in the image. The Add Tool Link pull down menu will now display. More information about the steps to enable Anthem.

Tripod-Mounted Video Camera Capture

This approach uses a more traditional live performance setup where a camera is positioned on a tripod at the rear of the classroom and presenters wear a lapel mic to capture audio. Depending on the scope of the project and frequency of recording, this can be a much higher-stakes and resource-intensive approach and set up than desktop capture. Careful planning involving staff support may be required to implement the appropriate conditions to create a high quality video. Software such as iMovie, Screenflow and Adobe Premiere are especially well suited for editing. The final cut is then uploaded to a streaming video server such as Ensemble.

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Office

Our office is on the second floor of the library (Library 222), however, we are currently working remotely.

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Hours

Our virtual office hours are M-F: 8:30am – 4:30pm.
The best way to reach us is by email or submitting a Help Desk ticket.

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Email

leds@skidmore.edu