4.2 Recording Videos Within Canvas Studio

Recording On-Screen Content using Canvas Studio

Canvas Studio provides faculty with a simple way to record on-screen content for online courses.

This guide explains how to use the built-in recording feature called Screencast-O-Matic (now known as ScreenPal outside of Canvas, available at https://screenpal.com/ Links to an external site.) to create instructional videos. You'll learn how to set up, record, edit, and upload screen recordings directly within your Canvas courses.

1. Navigate to Canvas Studio by selecting the Studio link in your Canvas course navigation menu.
2. Open a collection where you would like to save your recording
3. Select the Record button to create a new recording.
4. Select Screen-Cast-O-Matic from the available options.

Note: If you are using Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge, you may notice a Studio Capture option in the dropdown menu. This is a new, integrated screen capture feature currently in beta. While it eliminates the need to download a separate application, we have found the interface to be confusing at this time and cannot recommend it.

For the best user experience, please select Screencast-o-Matic from the available options. If you are interested in experimenting with Studio Capture, refer to the Canvas Community Guide: How do I record a screen capture video in Canvas Studio with a Chrome or Edge browser? Links to an external site. for more information.

1. If you are using Screen-Cast-O-Matic for the first time, you may need to download and install the application.
2. Select the download button, then go to your downloads folder and install the application.
3. Once complete, restart your browser and return to Canvas Studio.

For more installation guidance, review the following Canvas Community Guide: How do I install the Screencast-O-Matic (ScreenPal) capture application? Links to an external site.

1. For best results, prepare a script or outline of what you'll cover in your recording. This helps create more organized and concise videos.
2. Back on the Canvas Studio screen, select the Record button and then select Screen-Cast-O-Matic.

1. Once Screen-Cast-O-Matic is open, you will see a dotted rectangular box on your screen.
2. Drag the box to the location of the window you want to record.
3. Click and drag the corners to match the size of the window you want to record.
4. If you are recording your web browser (e.g., to explain a Canvas assignment), make sure you navigate to the specific page you want to discuss.
5. If you are recording another window (e.g., a document or PowerPoint presentation), ensure that the window is properly framed within the recording area.

1. Select your recording option: Screen, Webcam, or Both. For beginners, we recommend selecting Screen.
2. Test your microphone under Narration to ensure you have the correct one selected.
3. When ready, click the Record button to start recording your on-screen content.

For webcam recording guidance, review the following Canvas Community Guide: How do I record a webcam video in Canvas Studio with a Safari or Firefox browser? Links to an external site.

1. Notice the red border around your window. This is an indication that a Screencast-O-Matic is now recording a video of the selected window
2. To pause the recording, select the pause button.
3. To resume recording, select the Rec button.

1. Click on the Play button to review your recording. Make sure to play the entire section to completion.
2. When you are done with your recording, click on the Done button.

1. In the preview window, play the video again to review it entirely.
2. Enter a title and description for your video in the description box.
3. Once you are done, select Upload to upload your video to Canvas Studio.

For editing guidance, review the following resources: How to edit video using the Screencast-O-Matic (ScreenPal) free video editor? Links to an external site.

After your video has finished uploading to Canvas Studio, you must refresh your browser to see the newly uploaded video in your collection. If you don't see your video immediately after uploading, refreshing the page will resolve this issue.

For additional resources and tutorials, explore: Extensive resource of tutorial videos on Screencast-O-Matic (ScreenPal) Links to an external site.

1. Prepare your content: Before recording, organize your thoughts and materials to ensure a smooth, focused presentation.
2. Minimize distractions: Close unnecessary tabs and applications, and ensure your recording space is quiet and well-lit.
3. Practice: Rehearse your presentation to improve delivery and minimize mistakes.
4. Keep it concise: Aim for shorter, targeted videos to maintain student engagement.
5. Engage with your audience: Use a conversational tone and maintain eye contact with the camera to create a more personal connection with your students.
6. Low stakes practice for High stakes results: If you're a beginner at recording on-screen videos, such as PowerPoint lectures, it's beneficial to practice a few minutes of your lecture initially. This helps you become familiar with what you want to say and the recording process.

• Time-saving: Canvas Studio's built-in recording features save faculty time and effort in creating on-screen content.
• User-friendly: The straightforward recording process is easy for faculty with limited technology experience to master.
• Enhanced engagement: By following best practices, faculty can create more engaging and effective video content for their online courses.