Resource Review 6 - Screen Capturing and Libraries

The following article addresses some very important issues for libraries in relation to virtual reference and screencasting:

Watson, J. (2004). Going beyond screen captures: Integrating video screen recording into your library instruction program. Feliciter, 50(2), 66-67.

The author stresses that in this age of digital technology, librarians need tools to teach and relay information to patrons in online environments. Distance education and off campus access to resources have made this even more crucial. Some of the earlier digital tools that aided libraries were PowerPoint, the simple "Print Screen" function on most keyboards, and a program called Viewlet Builder. Although these programs worked for basic purposes, the author states that they "lack the fluidity of seeing real-time database searching" (p. 66). In this case, screen capturing software that includes video capabilities is more ideal. Some of the products recommended by the author include SnagIt and Camtasia (both created by TechSmith), and another program called RoboDemo. RoboDemo not only has video creation capabilities, but it apparently has the ability to create quizzes that accompany a video. This is an additional teaching tool that might come in handy for librarians and educators alike. Finally, the author recommends downloading trial versions of different products to compare functionality so that libraries may better evaluate what type of product they need.

Even though Jing was not mentioned in this article, possibly due to the fact that its video capturing capabilities are quite limited, it is still relevant to the issues addressed. Librarians may find Jing a good starting program to familiarize oneself with when creating screen capturing videos. Other programs like Camtasia are more advanced and could possibly take much longer to learn. Jing makes sharing videos extremely easy and now allows the creator to include voice-overs. The software, although limited in features, is generally useful for simple video creation, and is already being used by many libraries in virtual reference.