Learn to create perfect videos for your online course

During this unprecedented time we’ve found ourselves in, remote learning has become the new normal. This change has been incredibly difficult for some, as we learn how to navigate the online learning sphere. However, after a few years, we have found that videos are the most effective way to conduct online learning. With this in mind, it of course also applies to online courses! Which is exactly what we’re going to be taking a look at today.

Are you looking to create an online course? Perhaps you’re looking to create content as a course instructor on Xquissive? Well, either way, you’ve come to the right place. Learning exactly how to create videos for your online course is one of the primary concerns of those who are looking to monetise their skills and expertise. Of course, turning your iPhone to the side and pressing record is the obvious choice of action, however it may not be enough to achieve good, high quality videos for your course. That’s where we come in – with proper planning, we’ll have you recording professional videos in no time!

While this may be an incredibly exciting time, we know it can be overwhelming at times. So before you dive in, let’s go through a few tips, tricks and tools you’ll need to make the video creation process easier and more efficient.

Why should you create videos for your online course?

In general, video content is most preferred by the general public. We’d also expect this to be at an all-time high following the COVID-19 pandemic. Given this 180 degree turn in education methods, learning a new skill is no longer limited to classrooms, lecture halls and desks. According to a survey that was conducted by the Interactive Advertising Bureau, 1 in 5 people consume audio visual content on their mobiles while watching TV. Additionally, 36% of participants noted that they watched videos that lasted more than 5 minutes.

Another reason you should create videos for your online course is due to the fact that videos are the most instructive form of media which can easily be taken in by the learner. By merging images and sound, learners are more likely to show an interest in what is being taught.

Finally, good, high quality instructional videos can be created with just a few resources!

With that being said, now is definitely the time to be creating videos for an online learning course in your field of choice!

5 videos you need for your online course

When creating an online video course, it’s important to recognize the range of different videos you’ll need to create. Aside from your typical content lessons, there are 5 other video types that you can create to supplement your online course. We put together a list of the 5 different types of videos that are likely to grab and hold the attention of your learners. Let’s dive in!

1. Course introduction video

Creating an introduction video at the start of your course is always a good idea. This type of video is relatively quick and easy to make, and is often incredibly helpful to your learners. In this video, introduce yourself, the course, the syllabus and perhaps some expectations for the duration of the course.

You can also take this time to share a little bit more about yourself and your background. Due to the implications of remote learning, it’s important to make sure that you come across as personable, approachable and ‘human’ to your students. In fact, strong learner-teacher relationships are a key factor in learning!

2. Course navigation video

This video should aim to help learners understand how to navigate the course materials and content that you will be sharing. After watching, learners should feel confident regarding where to find the syllabus, submit assignments etc. By creating an in-depth, detailed course navigation video, you’re likely to avoid repetitive questions from learners. 

3. Unit Overview Video

Throughout your course, you should have a number of unit overview videos, depending on how many chapters/sub-topics/units you have decided to make. At the start of each sub-section, unit overview videos give students the opportunity to preview the upcoming content. Students often appreciate being kept in the loop – a great way to do this is through consistent overview videos!

4. Walkthrough videos

Walkthrough videos are simple ‘how-to’ videos that serve as additional content to your video courses. These videos can accompany the course as a whole, or cater to a specific assignment/topic. In these videos, being comfortable is the goal. There is no need to make these videos incredibly professional, as students often respond best to walkthroughs that are personable  and approachable. Surprisingly – informality is encouraged! Topics of walkthrough videos can include the syllabus, task procedures, how to submit assignments, how to take a quiz, due dates etc.

5. Feedback videos

Instead of providing feedback on assignments and tasks via email, consider sending students short feedback videos. By using feedback videos you can give students a better, deeper understanding of your thoughts and comments. In addition to providing clear feedback, these videos also allow for students to feel like you are really connecting with them! Similar to what we mentioned earlier, personalized and conversational feedback is likely to be greatly appreciated by your learners.

6 Steps to Create Professional Videos for your Online Course

As we mentioned earlier, videos are the most effective way to both teach and learn online. Because your learners will more than likely be paying for your content, it’s very important to make sure that you are delivering great content as well as a great user experience. Let’s take a look at this 6 step approach that you  can follow when creating online course videos.

1. Decide on your content and course format

Let’s say that you’re already set on your course topic and have selected the field/niche you’ll be working in. Now, it’s time to gather your course content and devise a lesson plan. In this step you’ll need to divide your material into sub-topics for each video lesson. Consider how many videos you will need to create to effectively teach all of your content. Don’t forget to also take into account the time of each course video, as they shouldn’t be too long or too tiring. By creating a course plan in advance, you’ll be able to maintain a clear structure when you dive into the filming process, as well as ensure a coherency between each video. Remember, it’s important that your course is understandable and has a sense of continuity between lessons. During this stage you should also decide on how you should best approach your audience. This is of course different for each field!

2. Pay attention to your speech and presentation

In order to really engage with your audience, it’s important to be comfortable in front of the camera. Of course, this is a skill in itself and it can take some time to warm up to. Luckily, there are many techniques that you can use to help with your speech, body language and presentation. With some practice, you’ll be a pro in no time! An additional tip is to ask your family and friends to be an audience for you, so you get accustomed to speaking in front of others in a comfortable space. It’s also important to note that the more you master your subject/field, the more comfortable you’ll be teaching it – it will just come naturally!

To get you started, here are a few simple tips:

• Use small hand gestures, but don’t overdo it! Moving around too much is likely to be a distraction to your learners.
• Be open to repeating some words, or using subtitles, as accents can become a communication barrier for some.
• Before recording, move around, stretch and warm up your voice!
• Wear what makes you most comfortable
• Take some time to watch online course videos by other teachers to perhaps gain inspiration or learn some useful tips

3. Arrange your filming set up

Although you don’t need an incredibly fancy set up, it’s important to set a scene that is professional nonetheless. Consider finding a spot that is comfortable for you, suits your learners needs, has few unnecessarily items around and has good, bright lighting. Remember, the learners attention should be on you, so it’s important to keep the set organized and neutral. Another important thing to note during this step, is to ensure you are in a noise free environment, as noise can interfere with your audio quality.

4. Gather your filming equipment

To create professional videos for your online course, you’ll need some video equipment. This includes a camera/phone, a memory card, a microphone, a tripod (if needed) and some lighting (as needed). These are of course all suggestions, so feel free to arrange a set up that best suits your needs and includes what you have available.

Although editing can at times save a video, it’s better to create a video that needs as little editing as possible. This is likely to save you countless hours on post production time.

If your budget allows it, consider hiring or consulting a professional videographer/editor to help you out or maybe give you some tips on the process!

5. Edit your videos

Although you may be eager to begin your course, it’s important to set aside some time to edit. The editing process is a crucial step in determining the quality of your final material and content. As we mentioned earlier, hiring a video editor is of course an option, but if you’re wanting to delve into the editing process yourself – keep on reading.

Luckily, there is a variety of free video editing software online that will make your life a whole lot easier! For Windows operating systems, check out Windows Movie Maker. If you’re using a Mac, consider iMovie. If you’re looking for something a little more professional, check out Final Cut Pro. Like we mentioned, there are a ton of different options available online. One we can highly recommend is Invideo.

During the editing process itself, you might want to add visual elements such as gifs, images, icons and subtitles to add more value to your videos. By supplementing your videos with other forms of media, you are more likely to hold the attention of your learners.

6. Host your course online

Now that you’ve got everything covered behind the scenes, it’s time to start selling your course! When deciding on which platform to use, it’s important to choose one that has the necessary resources to support your business.

Features to consider:

• Customization
• Online payment system
• Automatic delivery of content
• Support
• Community
• Discussion forums

At Xquissive we strive to stimulate creativity and education among people of all ages in all areas of the world. Whether you’re simply looking to boost your creative side or become a pro creative, our community offers a number of tutorials and articles to do just that!

The Xquissive Academy is now functioning as a platform for creatives to monetize their expertise and skills through online video courses. Essentially, skilled and experienced teachers from all around the globe can share their skills, tips and tricks with other creatives online.

How to become an instructor:

We are currently looking to recruit enthusiastic and inspiring creatives willing to share their skills in the form of advanced tutorials or educational courses.

At the moment we are looking for instructors in the following fields:

• Drawing
• Logo Design
• Graphic Design
• Illustrator
• Photoshop
• Procreate
• Tutorials
• Print on Demand

If you didn’t find your related field on this list, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us anyway.

For more information about rewards and how to apply, please visit this page to learn more.