Tips on setting up your Video Lecture to get it right the first time

Pre-recorded AND Live

1. Background: Some virtual meeting tools, including Zoom, allow you to create bespoke backgrounds. Some lecturers use a familiar photograph of their university to close the distance with their students. Others prefer to invite their students into their own environment by using a genuine background. This may involve moving furniture to create an appropriate space. Make this decision early and set up in advance. 

2. Lighting: Avoid being lit from behind as this will shade your face making your expressions less visible to your students. If you can, invest in some cheap decent ring lights, otherwise make sure you face the window or lighting. 

3. Framing - a lot of people are too high or too low. If the screen is at eye level, it should be ok.

4. Sound: Try and find a smaller room with soft furnishings, carpets, curtains etc. so your sound isn’t distracting or echoey. It makes it easier to concentrate. 

5. What will you wear? Look at yourself on camera – is this the effect that you want?

6. Test:  Film yourself presenting for 5 minutes and play it back. You’ll be able to see what isn’t working.

Live only

1. Wi-Fi: Make sure your internet connection is as stable as possible - ideally hard-wired in but, failing that, make sure the other people in the house are logged out of the Wi-Fi . 

2. Power: Ideally select a location where you can plug in your devices. If not, make sure they are fully charged before the lecture. 

3. It can be useful to have a glass of water, and a cloth nearby in case it is knocked over. 

4. Tools: Whether you are using digital tools or a whiteboard, make sure you are prepared. Before the lecture check pens work or that software is open. 

5. Practice using any software in advance so that you are comfortable with it. You could ask a colleague to take the place of your students – then swap around so that you get the student view.