Using Video to Introduce Your Course Creatively

Dec. 2, 2022

Are you looking for a creative and meaningful way to introduce yourself to students? Often, an introduction video is the first thing a student will watch in a course.

An instructor is creating a video on her laptop to introduce her course.

Example

This video, by Charles ‘Cody’ Young, an instructor in the School of Theater, Film and Television, is a great example of an introductory video that is engaging and gets students excited to learn about the course.

 

Instructions

If you would like to include something like this in your course, here are some starting off points: 

  • Think through the story you want to tell, what is the purpose of this video? The best course introduction videos should hook the viewers and get them motivated to learn. 
  • What type of technology do you have access to? Even a simple video made at home can be engaging when you let your personality come through. 
  • If you are working with UCATT on an online course design, work with your instructional designer to schedule a field shoot with the video team. 
  • If you are producing the video on your own, work with the main library to Borrow Technology that will help create a high quality video, such as cameras and tripods. As a University of Arizona employee, you also have access to Adobe video editing programs, such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Adobe Rush. 
  • Think of a creative location you can film, such as somewhere around Tucson that is meaningful to you. Even a lab or studio on campus provides a great backdrop. If you can’t get to a location, consider incorporating photos or clips from relevant videos. 

Expert advice: 

This video is a good way to incorporate the instructor's personality and background. Cody had a story he wanted to tell to engage his student’s and share his passion in the field. He used UCATT’s videography studio to get a professional level video. 

Other things to note: 

  • This entire video was completed without a powerpoint slide deck
  • The use of background music adds a fun layer to the video
  • Cody chats with the camera, rather than follows a rigid script
  • The video was shot in a novel location, outside of a normal office or videography studio
  • Keep course introductory videos evergreen by leaving out dates and details that may change, such as specifics about assignments, or contact information like your phone or office number.

Possible limitations: 

  • Not everyone has access to a videographer and professional filming equipment.
  • Videos like this take time, but once they are created they can be used for several years.