I like to film quick, low-tech, no-editing instructional videos for students.
Quick, because I’m a teacher and who has enough time?
Low-Tech means that I use items around the house and classroom or items that are cheap to buy.
No-Editing, because my students don’t care, and they find it funny when I make a mistake and keep going on. And… of course.. for time. And research backs me up in that no-editing is fine for student learning.
Here’s an explanatory video of how I use my iPad and iPhone to film video.
Ideas for holding up your device
- A flexible clamp for a phone (click for link) is good tool to use. I clamp to tables to film a demo or a lecture or when I need footage of myself. The arm can be twisted around to get the shot I need.
- I use a ring stand to hold my iPad/tablet up for filming doodle/sketch notes, math and charts.
- I have not tried this overhead camera stand, but it looks promising.
- You can also use a flexible arm and clip to the side of something.
- You can even use a stack of books or something made of legos…be creative.
- I use this simple, inexpensive book stand to hold up my textbook, but there are sturdier versions with lights available too.
I filmed this Fecal Coliform Bacteria demonstration using the above method.
I used the flexible arm clamp on a lab table to film this Gross Primary Production/Net Primary Productivity demonstration. (Note, I did edit this video, but that’s because I had the time, its not necessary to edit most of what you film).
For funding ideas to purchase any of these items, read this post.
Good luck!
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