Quick and Easy: Use Screen Capture Software to Train and Communicate

Screen capture (screen cast) software can be used to develop short videos for training purposes. Developing videos is quick and easy. This article describes how these videos are used as tools to reinforce face-to-face and interactive TV curriculum training in a nutrition education program. Advantages of developing these videos are shared. Suggestions for how these videos can be used in other ways are offered. What Is Screen Capture Software? Screen capture software has the capacity to record screen activity from the desktop into a movie file or video format (Educause Learning Initiative, 2006). Audio narration is added, and sometimes annotation may be available. Screen capture is sometimes also known as "screen casting" or "screen recording." Initially screen capture was developed to demonstrate software features or to provide step-by-step instructions while demonstrating on-screen. Why Use Screen Capture to Train and Communicate with Nutrition Educators? There are over 150 educators statewide employed with the University of Missouri Extension nutrition education programs. Over 120 educators work in schools, and they are heavily scheduled in classrooms from late August through May or June. Training opportunities include statewide conferences, local training by regional coordinators, and interactive television (ITV). Educators have over 20 different curricula to choose from, each curriculum has 11 to 21 teaching materials (visuals, handouts, videos) available to enhance the curriculum. How can educators (and those who conduct curriculum trainings) keep updated regarding the myriad of materials that enhance each curriculum and where to find the teaching materials? How can educators get the most current information about how to use a curriculum and what audience it is intended for? How Screen Capture Is Used as a Training and Communication Tool Quick and Easy: Use Screen Capture Software to Train and Communicate 08/29/11 08:07:18