CALC Summit 2008 Preconference: Are you Screencasting? Here is your chance to learn how to create and edit animated tutorials at this half-day workshop!

Where: Regis University

When:  Thursday, May 22, 2008 

             1:00 - 4:00 pm

Cost:    $40.00 (Separate Registration Required) 

Facilitator

Paul Betty, Distance Learning Librarian, Regis University

Sponsored by Regis University.  

Free transportation from the conference hotel to Regis University will be provided.

Screencasting software allows the creator to record a series of animated screenshots captured from the computer monitor.  The recording process is similar to placing a video camcorder in front of the computer monitor, and recording all the mouse movements, typing, mouse clicks, windows, programs, etc. used during the recording session.  However, screencast software removes the need for external recording equipment, instead internally capturing to the hard drive events on the computer monitor as they occur.  Nearly any use of a personal computer can be recorded, edited, and published as a Shockwave Flash (.swf) movie or as a stand-alone executable program (.exe). Depending on the software used, the screencast can also include audio, closed captioning, video, and/or slide notes for patrons using adaptive software. It is an ideal format for remote instruction, but it can also be used for training, assessment, and usability testing. With so many patrons utilizing the library via the library website, screencasting provides a great opportunity to meet your users at the point of need.

In this workshop attendees will use the freeware screencast software program Wink to create a short screencast for their library website.  We’ll explore the features and tools of the Wink screencast software, and also take a look at some of the more robust commercial screencast products currently available.  In the second half of the workshop, we’ll explore options for hosting your screencast online. More specifically, we’ll examine the difference between Shockwave Flash (.swf) movies and the various digital video formats, and walk through the process of file conversion from one format to another. After converting to digital video, we’ll then upload the files to a hosting service such as You Tube or similar.

No previous experience with screencasting software is required.  Basic computer skills are all that are needed. Examples of library screencasts can be found on the Regis Library website at the following URL: http://www.regis.edu/library.asp?page=research.tutorials.fivesteps

Bring your curiosity and your imagination, and discover the world of screencasting!    

REGISTER NOW!