Creating engaging module introduction videos is one of the most effective ways to keep students connected and motivated in your asynchronous course. These short videos serve as your direct line of communication with students, setting the tone for each learning module and helping them understand why the upcoming content matters.
While Blended Teaching provides the comprehensive video content that covers your course material, your personal introduction videos are what make the learning experience feel human and connected. Here's how to make them count 🧮
Your module introduction videos should be no longer than ~ 5 minutes. Students are more likely to watch and engage with shorter content, and you'll find it easier to maintain energy and focus throughout a brief recording.
Remember, your goal isn't to teach the content (Blended Teaching's cinematic videos handle that), but to create excitement and context for what students are about to learn.
Begin each video by connecting the module content to something students already know or care about. This could be:
For example, instead of saying "This week we're covering market efficiency," try "Have you ever wondered why some stocks seem to skyrocket overnight while others barely move? This week's content on market efficiency will help you understand exactly what's happening behind those price movements."
Students thrive on predictability in asynchronous environments. Develop a consistent format for your introduction videos that students can rely on. We recommend this structure:
Opening (30 seconds): Personal greeting and connection to current events or real-world context
Overview (2 minutes): Brief outline of what students will learn and why it matters
Logistics (1 minute): Key assignments, due dates, and what to focus on
Closing (30 seconds): Encouragement and preview of how this connects to upcoming modules
Speak directly to your students as if you're having a one-on-one conversation. Use "you" frequently, share brief personal anecdotes when relevant, and don't be afraid to show your personality. Students want to feel connected to their instructor, especially in an asynchronous environment where face-to-face interaction is limited.
Avoid reading from a script. Instead, use bullet points or key phrases to guide your talking points, allowing for natural speech patterns and genuine enthusiasm.
Help students see how this module fits into the bigger picture of your course. Reference previous modules briefly and hint at how the current content will be built upon in future weeks. This creates a sense of progression and helps students understand the logical flow of the curriculum.
Lighting: Record near a window during daylight hours, or use a simple ring light. Good lighting makes you appear more professional and engaging.
Audio: Invest in a basic external microphone or ensure you're in a quiet space. Poor audio quality is more distracting than imperfect video.
Background: Keep it simple and professional. A bookshelf, plain wall, or your office works perfectly.
Eye Contact: Look directly at the camera lens, not the screen. This creates the feeling of direct conversation with your students.
While it might be tempting to reuse introduction videos, we strongly recommend recording new ones each semester. This allows you to:
The time investment is minimal compared to the engagement benefits you'll see.
Always conclude your introduction videos by telling students exactly what they should do next. Whether it's watching specific Blended Teaching video chapters, completing a quiz, or participating in a discussion, clear direction helps students stay on track and reduces confusion.
Pay attention to which introduction videos generate the most student engagement through discussion posts, assignment completion rates, or direct feedback. Use this information to refine your approach throughout the semester.
Remember, these videos are your opportunity to be present in your students' learning experience, even when you can't be there in person. By investing a few minutes each week in creating thoughtful, engaging introductions, you'll see significant improvements in student participation and connection to your course material.
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