Guidelines
The Basic Steps
The process of captioning consists of two stages: the first, transcription of the soundtrack into a text file, is by far the most time-consuming. Think of this as the written script of the soundtrack of the video. Once this is accomplished, insertion of the text captions into the video in sync with the video action is relatively quick and simple. This second syncing process is what allows the text to be displayed at the correct time interval of the video, so that the audio is played at the same time that the text gets displayed.
General Captioning Tips
- Microphone quality: You will likely get better results from the auto-transcription engines when using a better quality microphone. Here's one good one we have used: http://amzn.to/UKcaft.
- Using proper sentence structure: Another way to get better results form the auto-transcription engines is to use proper sentence structure and grammar in your recordings. This can be difficult to do in our normal speech patterns, but it does improve performance when it comes to the auto-transcription processes.
- Using a script: One way to make the captioning process easier is to write out the script before doing the recording. The transcription step, then, is taken care of and it's just a matter of syncing it to the video afterwards. This can also be a good way to ensure that you cover everything that you need to in your videos, while keeping it short and focused. You can take the script one step further and use it with the teleprompter, making it easier to maintain eye contact with the camera while reading your script.
- Find a Workflow for You: You may find that you have several options when it comes to recording and captioning your instructional media. Don't let this be overwhelming. Find a workflow that you are comfortable with and that works well for you.
Please feel free to contact SDCCD Online Learning Pathways for questions regarding captioning your instructional media.
