Instructional Video
Online video instructions offer highly effective approaches to acquiring new skills and are even more effective if the method is user-friendly for all people. The strengths of online instructions are that they are dynamic, easy-to-follow instructions that enhance the user’s understanding with real-time examples (Alexander, 2013). I also emphasize that users have different learning styles and that other modalities can accommodate various types of learners by combining auditory and visual elements to reinforce comprehension.
The most important lesson I’ve gained from this experience is the power of clarity in technical communication. Regardless of how advanced the technology may be, it only resonates with the audience if the message is clear. Through this content creation process, I’ve developed skills in conveying complex concepts concisely and understandably.
Informational Video
My courses in the MATC program focus on accessibility in technical documentation, so I offered to make a video to raise awareness of the different assistive technologies available to make technical information more inclusive online.
As part of concept development, using visuals to engage your audience includes creating animation and motion graphics as tools for making educational content. Using colors, shapes, and movements in motion graphics captures learners’ attention and enforces critical ideas (Blazer, 2020). I love to work with color and graphics. My skills developed while creating my instructional video because I could experiment with different ways video could interact with animated graphics. I used animated masking frames to support my video and give my scenes a multi-media format.
I started with a strong outline for a script idea, highlighting my main points and then elaborating on examples of each point. I began with an attention-grabbing opening and set an even pace with even emotion to keep my tone professional for my audience of technical communicators. The central portion of my script supported my core message. There are things to remember when creating specialized content accessible to all audience members, and some of the audiences will need assistive technologies. I tried to emulate the blueprint principles that were secrets to engaging online video scrips in our text that emphasized a strong introduction, maintaining a good pace, staying clear of extra information, using clear and straightforward language, using visuals, stating a clear objective, and have a call to action (Burger, 2015).