Recording Basics & Troubleshooting

Video can be a powerful way to connect with students, explain concepts, and provide clear guidance in your course. Whether you’re recording a welcome message, assignment overview, lecture, or feedback video, a few simple recording practices can make your content more engaging and easier for students to follow. If you run into technical issues or aren’t sure where to start, review the resources below for recording basics, troubleshooting tips, and common mistakes to avoid before you hit record.

Common Mistakes / Troubleshooting

Creating your first video doesn’t have to be perfect. Most challenges are common and easy to fix.

Review these common mistakes and quick troubleshooting tips to help you create a clear, effective video.

  1. Audio problems
    • Mic too quiet, background noise, or echo
    • 💡 Tip: Test audio before recording. Use headphones or a good mic if possible.
  2. Video too long
    • Faculty often try to cover too much in one video
    • 💡 Tip: Stick to 3–7 minutes. Focus on one concept or assignment.
  3. Cluttered screen
    • Too many tabs, notifications, or small text
    • 💡 Tip: Close unnecessary windows and enlarge text on slides or documents.
  4. Not showing the right screen
    • Accidentally sharing the wrong document or browser tab
    • 💡 Tip: Open only the content you plan to share and double-check before recording.
  5. Reading directly from slides
    • Can sound robotic or disengaging
    • 💡 Tip: Use slides as prompts, not scripts. Speak naturally.
  • Video won’t upload to Canvas Studio
    • Check file size (<2 GB recommended)
    • Ensure your browser is updated
    • Retry upload or contact support if needed
  • Playback issues
    • Test your video in Canvas Studio before submitting
    • Make sure audio and visuals are clear
  • Screen recording issues
    • Close all unnecessary applications
    • Restart your computer if the recording freezes
    • Record in shorter segments if necessary
  • Need help with slides or visuals
    • Return to the “Prepare Your Slides or Visuals” page
    • Use your web resource for additional guidance
Student using a laptop at BU Resource Center for online learning and academic support.

Technical Tips / Recording Basics

Before you hit record, take a moment to review these basics to ensure your video is clear and easy for students to follow.

➡️Take a minute to review these tips before recording your video.

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  • Microphone:
    • Use a headset or external mic if possible.
    • Test audio before recording. Speak at a normal pace.
  • Camera (optional):
    • You can include your face, but it’s not required.
    • Make sure your camera is at eye level and well-lit.
  • Screen:
    • Close unnecessary tabs, apps, or notifications.
    • Keep only what you plan to show visible.
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  • Record in a quiet space with minimal background noise.
  • Avoid backlighting—light should come from in front of you if using a camera.
  • Keep your desktop clean and organized if you are sharing slides or documents.
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  • Canvas Studio – recommended for recording and submitting videos.
  • Zoom or Microsoft Teams – can record a meeting with screen sharing.
  • Other screen recording tools – Loom, Screencast-O-Matic, etc.
  • Make sure your browser and software are updated before recording.
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  • Keep videos 2–5 minutes long.
  • Speak clearly and at a steady pace.
  • Use screen sharing to show assignments, slides, or documents.
  • Highlight key steps or concepts as you go.
  • Don’t worry about perfection—clarity matters more than polis
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Before recording your full video:

  1. Record a 30-second test clip.
  2. Check that audio, visuals, and screen sharing work correctly.
  3. Make adjustm

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Copyright 2025 | Bryan University | 350 West Washington Street, Tempe, AZ 85281