Video

This class will include synchronous discussions and other activities that make use of video. We may also ask you to make videos. You will need to have a webcam.

In a real class, we can see each other - and benefit from that. Video is out best mechanism for recreating that.

It isn’t always feasible to do video chat. However, doing it at least some of the time is really important. It is important for community building so we get to know each other. It is important for conveying non-verbal cues (which will be especially important when we do critique). It also helps make conversations more engaging. It also makes conversations run more smoothly (since we can use non-verbal cues) - but the lag and video quality issues limit this.

For synchronous class events, having 40-50 people is probably not feasible (the platforms support it, but not everyone’s internet connection is up to the task). Also, showing 50 faces in video isn’t as useful as you can’t see any one. But in a smaller group, video can be really helpful. In general, the plan is to have “all class” stuff be one way video (students turn their video off), but you should turn your camera on for small group discussions.

While in-person discussions are the main use for video, we will also use recorded video responses as a way to communicate. Canvas and Kaltura provide very easy ways to capture short video clips from your webcam. Video is useful because it is more personal. This has value for community building, but also in providing critique feedback.

We may also ask you to produce screen capture videos showing off things you create. We will explain how to do this with campus provided tools.