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Demonstration Videos

What is it?

​A demonstration video simultaneously explains and illustrates the steps in a process or procedure. Demonstration videos are great for teaching learners to solve a problem, follow a process, or complete a task. Place demonstration videos in the most useful location possible. Often, demonstration videos are incorporated into course learning modules when they relate to unit objectives but it may also be useful to place them into course announcements or course discussions when they serve to clarify concepts or provide additional examples.

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​Why should I do it?

Demonstration videos allow educators to model processes and procedures that may be difficult to convey through text or audio only. Since videos are static course elements, learners can revisit your content as often as they need to until they are successful.

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What tools do I need?

  • webcam/microphone

  • a free recording application

  • free video hosting

  • whiteboard application
    (depending on visual style)

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What does it look like?

Demonstration videos are usually talking head style, narrated slide presentations, screencasts, or pencasts.

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Learn more about talking head videos
Learn more about screencast videos
Learn more about pencast videos

How do I organize it?

Begin by formulating your objective and creating a solid plan, storyboard, or outline for your video. Demonstration videos should provide built-in opportunities for practice or should align with low-stakes course activities that require learners to apply their new skills.​ Reflective moments, activities, and formative assessments can be built into your video using using a free application.

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Demonstration Video Template

Demonstration Video Template: 1. Introduce topic; 2. Begin with objectives; 3. Provide instructions; 4. Describe the problem or procedure; 5. Demonstrate and explain the steps; 6. Pause for an interactive activity. 7. Explain how to verify correct results; 8. Highlight alternative approaches; 9. Discuss real-life applications; 10. Share references

       

  • Stick to your objective and avoid references to specific chapters, page numbers, dates, or assignments unless you plan to refresh this video every term.
     

  • Keep these videos brief: around 4 minutes is ideal but do not exceed ten minutes.
     

  • Embed video content such as demonstrations into the learning modules along with text annotations that put the content of the video into the context of the lesson.

 

Tips for Success​

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Example Demonstration Video (Screencast)

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References

Faculty Innovation Center. (2016). Microlecture [pdf]. Austin, TX: University of Texas at Austin. 

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