INSTRUCTIONAL HOW-TO VIDEO

ARTIFACT TYPE

Instructional how-to video created in Camtasia, featuring step-by-step screen capture, voiceover narration, and visual callouts to guide learners through a software process. 

PURPOSE

Provide learners with a clear, concise tutorial that demonstrates each step of a technical task. This microlearning-style video supports just-in-time learning by enabling learners to quickly access instructions and apply them immediately in their work. 

LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this video, learners will be able to:

• Follow step-by-step instructions to complete the demonstrated process.

• Recognize visual cues and interface elements within the software environment.

• Apply the demonstrated workflow to real-world contexts with confidence.

PROCESS

PART 1: BACKWARDS DESIGN

The design began with the objective of producing a quick-reference tutorial for learners who need immediate guidance. Camtasia was selected for its strong screen capture, editing, and annotation tools. 

PART 2: RESEARCH

I reviewed the target task and identified the most common learner challenges, ensuring that each was addressed in the video. Best practices in video-based learning and microlearning design were also applied to streamline the experience. 

PART 3: CONTENT DEVELOPMENT

The script and storyboard were designed to:

• Introduce the purpose of the task clearly.

• Break down the process into manageable, sequential steps.

• Reinforce key actions with on-screen highlights and callouts.

PART 4: VIDEO DESIGN IN CAMTASIA

Using Camtasia, I recorded the screen walkthrough and added:

• Annotations, highlights, and zoom effects to emphasize key actions.

• Intro/outro segments for context and polish.

PART 5: VISUAL AND INTERATIVE ELEMENTS

While the video itself is linear, design elements such as cursor highlights, animated arrows, and caption overlays were included to increase clarity and reduce learner confusion. 

PART 6: APPLICATION OF LEARNING PRINCIPLES

The video design aligned with:

• Segmenting Principle: Task broken into small, easy-to-follow steps.

• Signaling Principle: Visual cues to direct attention to critical actions.

• Modality Principle: Combining audio narration with on-screen visuals for stronger retention.

PART 7: ACCESSIBILITY AND USER EXPERIENCE

Closed captions were added to support accessibility, and the video was kept concise (under 5 minutes) to align with microlearning standards. 

ROLES

• Instructional Designer: Script writing, structure, and instructional flow.
  
  

• Video Developer: Screen recording, editing, and effects.

• Quality Assurance: Reviewed for accuracy, pacing, and learner usability.

TOOLS

• Camtasia: Screen capture, editing, annotations, and effects.
  
  

• Google Docs: Scriptwriting and feedback.
  
  

• YouTube: Video hosting and captioning.

OUTCOME

This project demonstrated my ability to create instructional video tutorials that are concise, engaging, and instructionally sound. Key takeaways:

• Strengthened my video editing and production skills using Camtasia.

• Applied instructional design principles to screen-based video learning.

• Delivered a reusable asset that supports just-in-time, independent learning.