Technical Video
The first media group option is creating a technical video about any technical or writing-focused topic. While I welcome and support you taking on a big challenge, this project is designed and meant for those with some video production experience already. If you start completely from scratch, you should schedule an office hours appointment with me to discuss logistics, tools, workflows, and support.
This project is due on February 15 and is worth up to 6 points.
If you have some prior experience with a video editor, the video should take 3-6 hours to complete. The time also depends on what type of video you choose to make, as fully narrated with animation would take more time than to-camera vlog styles, etc.
You are submitting a Project Completion Report with a link to your published video (YouTube, Stream, etc).
This page will walk you through a few big steps and pieces to get you started. I’ve also linked additional resources. But, again, if you have NO video experience, this may not be a strong option given the time and scope of the class. The “Recorded Presentation” is a beginner-friendly project because you don’t need to edit visuals, narration, and B-Roll. That project is a straightforward screencast and recording of your standard presentation.
What to Do
1️⃣Choose a technical or writing topic that interests you and aligns with the audience. Start with at least 3 ideas and start drafting the storyboard to ensure you have enough content, materials, and creative ideas before dedicating more time and resources to the project.
2️⃣Develop a detailed storyboard or shot list to map out your video’s structure. Once you pick the top idea, expand on your quick storyboard draft with more details on the talking points, the shots, the visuals, and the flow of the project. You can also write a script at this stage or an extended outline to help with your narration.
3️⃣ Record your narration and gather or create your visual elements. The better your equipment, the higher quality the video will be. You can check out some equipment from the library (ask the circulation desk or help desk for current list of items) or use your phone + headphones. Once you have the content, you should share it back to your compute using OneDrive, DropBox, Google Drive, iCloud. Do not email these files to yourself–they will be too large.
4️⃣Edit your video, incorporating cuts, transitions, and visual enhancements according to your storyboard plan. You don’t have to stick to it exactly since creative inspiration often strikes when working on a project. You will need video editing software: Adobe Rush, Microsoft Stream, iMovie, ScreenPal, and ClipChamp to lower learning curves and could get the job done with this project. If you already have access and experience, then you should use Premiere, Resolve, FinalCut or other higher-end tools for better practice.
5️⃣Review your video, upload it to a hosting platform, and submit the link along with your reflective memo to Canvas. Do not upload the video file to Canvas–it will cause errors and headaches when I try to view it. You can keep your video as “unlisted” instead of “public” as long as I can view it. Check the access settings with a friend to ensure it will be visible when I follow your link.
Step 1: Understand the Assignment
Read each word of the assignment and check out the example pages to understand your goal.
- Core Objective: Create a 3-6 minute informative video on a technical or writing-focused topic.
- Target Audience: High school and university students and early-career STEM professionals.
- Key Requirements:
- Narration/audio explaining the topic in your own words
- Visuals to enhance understanding (b-roll, animations, etc.)
- Cuts and edits (no single, continuous take)
- Storyboard or shot list demonstrating planning
- Formal memo reflecting on the project
- Video hosted on a platform like YouTube, Vimeo, etc. (not uploaded directly to Canvas)
Step 2: Choose Your Topic
You can pick whatever you want as long as it is technical enough to support a few minutes of explanation and require visuals. If you aren’t sure about a technical topic, you can pick a technical writing topic from the lecture chapters to explain instead.
- Passion & Knowledge: Select a technical topic you’re genuinely interested in and knowledgeable about. This will make the process more enjoyable and help you convey enthusiasm to your audience.
- Relevance: Consider if the topic is relevant and interesting to the target audience. Will it spark curiosity and enthusiasm for STEM?
- Examples: Artificial intelligence, renewable energy, cybersecurity, 3D printing, app development, video game design, technical writing best practices, etc.
Step 3: Plan Your Video
Make your plan. Think about the topics and content order while drawing or describing what will be on the screen. This video should not only be you talking to the camera in a vlog style- you need to add B-Roll and other visual images to the screen that help viewers understand the content. The storyboard helps you figure out what visuals should be paired with certain topics and picture the overall progression of the video.
- Storyboard or Shot List: Create a detailed plan outlining the sequence of scenes, visuals, and narration. This will serve as your roadmap during production.
- Key Points: Identify the core concepts you want to convey. Break down complex ideas into simpler, easily understandable chunks.
- Visuals: Brainstorm visuals that will complement your narration and enhance understanding. Consider using diagrams, animations, stock footage, or even filming your own demonstrations.
- Script: Write a script for your narration. Ensure it’s clear, concise, and engaging. Practice reading it aloud to check for flow and timing.
Step 4: Record Your Video
I need to hear your voice because this project verbally explains technical concepts. You don’t have to be on camera the whole time, but I need your voice as the narration. As you record, consider the ambient sound–your roommates, pets, etc. You might want to book a study room in the library to record your content. Then, pick up your relevant B-Roll content or use a stock library. You can use TheNounProject or Pixabay for many good pieces.
- Audio: Find a quiet location to record your narration. If possible, use a good-quality microphone. Speak clearly and at a comfortable pace.
- Visuals: Gather or create your visual elements. If filming yourself, ensure good lighting and framing.
- Editing Software: Choose a video editing software you’re comfortable with or willing to learn. Many free options are available (e.g., Davinci Resolve, OpenShot, iMovie).
Step 5: Edit Your Video
This depends heavily on your experience and the tools you are using. Search for the “Knowledge Base” or “Help Pages” and tutorials for the exact program you are using for guidance on how to edit the video.
- Assemble: Import your audio and visual elements into your editing software. Arrange them according to your storyboard or shot list.
- Cuts & Transitions: Use cuts and transitions to create a smooth and engaging flow. Avoid long, static shots.
- Visual Enhancements: Add text, graphics, or animations to highlight key points or illustrate complex concepts.
- Audio: Adjust audio levels to ensure clarity. Add background music if appropriate, but keep it subtle so it doesn’t distract from the narration.
Step 6: Finalize & Submit
- Review: Watch your video multiple times. Check for errors, pacing, and overall clarity. Get feedback from others if possible.
- Upload: Upload your final video to a hosting platform (YouTube, Vimeo, etc.). You can set the YouTube access to “Unlisted,” which is a setting that requires the direct link to view. Your video will not be searchable or added to the recommendations features.
- Memo: Write your project retrospective memo, reflecting on your experience and the skills you developed. Save your Memo as a PDF to upload with your video link.
- Submission: Submit the link to your video and the PDF of your memo on Canvas by the due date.
The content on this page was generated using Google Gemini Pro and further edited by the author. Prompt: Act as a patient teacher or mentor, helping new technical writers complete a project. Write a step-by-step guide for how they can complete the work outlined in this project brief and scope. Provide details for people who feel really lost and confused about how to do the work. September 2024.
