From choosing a platform to managing the video, transitioning content online in a compelling way can be difficult and sometimes confusing.
Kelly Sullivan from Knoxville Arts and Fine Crafts Center has become an expert in transitioning in-person classes to ongoing digital content. In February’s Maker Meet-in, she discussed two types of classes: active participation (live) and pre-recorded. We’ll get into those differences, but first the tools:
iPad (for easy recording)
iMovie (for easy editing)
Extender arm (it’s funky looking, but super useful for a steady shot)
YouTube account (for posting)
Coordinated distribution of any class materials
Active Participation Workshops
These are typically the most fun and definitely the most interactive.
The biggest pitfall with these are the recording issues. You will want to be sure you don’t make the audience unintentionally nauseous by constantly moving the camera around! You can utilize the extender arm to allow for more fluid motion, but keep your audience in mind. They may only need to see your hands!
The benefit to live interaction is the ability to answer questions as they arise. You will want to elicit the help of a moderator, on another computer, to watch for questions and facilitate the experience.
Be sure to encourage participants to share their creations. Show and Tell can be scary but goes a long way to develop trust and increase their skills.
Pre-Recorded Workshops
The pros for this type of workshop are relatively obvious- allows for editing, flexible class participation, and perpetual sales of the workshop. These are all worthwhile to note, but simply do not provide the personal interaction. You will have to evaluate the importance of that connection and determine which option is best for you.
More information from Kelly can be found in the recording of the Maker Meet-in below.
Click to play video
Other tips offered by attendees:
Invest in an inexpensive ring light!
Collaborative workshops are cool. Everyone joins and then are separated in the zoom breakout rooms. Smaller classes = more class participation.
The Maker City is always available to help with any additional questions. Feel free to email us at themakercity@gmail.com!