Recording and Editing Short Instructional Videos Using Tools Such as Loom, OBS, Screencast-o-Matic

Recording and Editing Short Instructional Videos Using Tools Such as Loom, OBS, and Screencast-o-Matic

1. Introduction

Digital content is at the heart of both virtual and flipped learning. Among various types of digital materials, short instructional videos are the most powerful tools for delivering lessons beyond the physical classroom. These videos enable learners to:

  • Access lessons anytime, anywhere, and at their own pace.
  • Prepare before class sessions in a flipped classroom setup.
  • Revisit complex ideas, supporting deeper understanding and long-term retention.

According to Talbert (2017), instructional videos are essential for flipped learning because they move direct instruction outside the classroom, allowing classroom time to focus on active problem-solving, collaboration, and discussion.

In simple terms, instructional videos help teachers teach once but reach many times — allowing students to pause, rewind, and learn in a way that suits their individual learning styles.

2. Why Short Instructional Videos Matter

Short instructional videos serve multiple purposes in digital learning:

  1. Enhance engagement: They combine audio, visuals, and demonstrations to hold attention.
  2. Support flexible learning: Learners can watch, pause, and review content at their own pace.
  3. Promote content consistency: Every learner receives the same quality of instruction.
  4. Enable flipped learning: Teachers deliver foundational content before class, freeing class time for deeper learning.

When used effectively, these videos bridge the gap between self-learning and guided instruction, transforming passive learning into active participation.

3. Planning and Selecting Video Content

Creating effective videos begins with thoughtful planning. Consider the following steps:

  • Align with Learning Objectives: Every video must address specific goals or competencies.
  • Keep It Short: The ideal duration is 5–10 minutes per video to sustain attention (Brame, 2016).
  • Choose the Right Type: Use demonstrations, concept explanations, tutorials, or worked examples.
  • Know Your Audience: Consider students’ prior knowledge, accessibility needs, and digital literacy levels.
  • Add Engagement Features: Use captions, highlights, animations, or short reflective questions.

Tip: Before recording, use storyboarding — a visual outline of your video that helps organize content flow and visuals.

4. Tools for Recording Instructional Videos

4.1 Loom

  • Description: A cloud-based tool for recording screen, webcam, or both.
  • Key Features: Instant sharing, real-time recording, trimming, and viewer comments.
  • Advantages: Simple interface; great for feedback and asynchronous communication.
  • Limitations: Requires stable internet; limited features on the free plan.
  • Website: https://www.loom.com

4.2 OBS Studio (Open Broadcaster Software)

  • Description: A free, open-source program for screen recording and live streaming.
  • Key Features: Scene transitions, overlays, audio mixing, and multiple input sources.
  • Advantages: Unlimited recording length, professional-quality output, no watermarks.
  • Limitations: Requires more setup knowledge and a capable computer.
  • Website: https://obsproject.com

4.3 Screencast-o-Matic (Now Known as ScreenPal)

  • Description: A beginner-friendly tool for recording screens and webcams.
  • Key Features: Voice narration, captions, quizzes, and cloud hosting.
  • Advantages: Simple interface, good for teachers creating quick tutorials.
  • Limitations: Free version includes a watermark; advanced editing requires subscription.
  • Website: https://screencast-o-matic.com

5. Best Practices for Recording and Editing

  1. Plan Before Recording: Prepare a script or outline to maintain structure.
  2. Keep It Focused: Address a single concept per video to prevent cognitive overload.
  3. Use Visuals: Diagrams, animations, and slides make abstract ideas clearer.
  4. Engage Learners: Insert reflective pauses or short quiz questions.
  5. Maintain Quality: Use good lighting, clear audio, and a quiet recording environment.
  6. Edit Thoughtfully: Trim errors, add subtitles, and include annotations.
  7. Ensure Accessibility: Add closed captions and transcripts for inclusivity.

Example: A math teacher could use Loom to record a problem-solving video, embed a reflective question at the end (“How else could you solve this problem?”), and upload it to the Learning Management System (LMS) for review before class.

6. Integrating Videos into Virtual and Flipped Learning

Once the videos are created, integrate them meaningfully into the learning process:

  • Pre-Class Learning: Upload videos to the LMS, YouTube, or Google Classroom for students to watch before the lesson.
  • Interactive Engagement: Combine videos with short quizzes (via Kahoot!, Quizizz, or Google Forms).
  • OER Integration: Link supplementary materials from OER Commons, Khan Academy, or PhET Simulations to reinforce concepts.
  • Reflection and Feedback: Encourage students to comment, reflect, or record their own short responses using Loom.

7. Enhancing Videos with OER and Multimedia

Integrating Open Educational Resources (OER) enriches video-based learning and promotes open sharing. Examples include:

By linking videos to OER, teachers can provide broader, interactive, and freely accessible learning materials that enhance both engagement and understanding.

8. Benefits of Using Instructional Videos

  • Promotes self-paced learning: Students control their pace and review as needed.
  • Improves engagement and motivation: Visuals and narration stimulate multiple senses.
  • Encourages deeper learning: Learners apply concepts actively during class.
  • Saves teaching time: Reusable videos reduce repetitive lecturing.
  • Ensures inclusivity: Captions and multilingual subtitles expand accessibility.
  • Supports lifelong learning: Videos can be shared across cohorts and institutions.

9. Conclusion

Recording and editing short instructional videos is a transformative skill for modern educators. Tools like Loom, OBS Studio, and Screencast-o-Matic make it possible to design engaging, reusable, and accessible learning materials that support both virtual and flipped classrooms.

When paired with Open Educational Resources (OER), these videos empower learners to take charge of their learning — anytime, anywhere — and help teachers foster an interactive, inclusive, and learner-centered environment.

Key Takeaway: Effective instructional videos are not just recordings; they are powerful learning experiences that connect knowledge, creativity, and accessibility.

10. References

 


Last modified: Monday, 13 October 2025, 9:29 AM