5. Record Audio & Video

If you're taking a more DIY approach to course media, you can create brief audio or video recordings through the text editor. Though it's a very simple interface for recording short bits of audio or video, it's important to note several limitations of this feature. 

  • Short recording times. Though this can be an advantage if you're recording a brief introduction to a section or topic, or a forum post, the default recording length of two minutes isn't enough for more in-depth course content. 
  • Limited recording sources. The video feature only records from your device's webcam, which means it cannot be used to create or upload screencasts. 
  • Inaccessible. Neither recording method includes a captioning or transcription feature. We recommend including a separate transcript of your recording in the text below your recording. 
  • No mobile support. As easy as this feature is to use, it's unfortunately not supported on mobile devices. Neither you nor your learners will be able to create a recording, or view a recording, on a mobile phone or tablet. 

Despite these limitations, this feature is a great and easy way to add more presence to your course. 

Atto Recording

Anywhere you see your Atto text editor you can use this feature. If you don't know what the Atto text editor is, it's whenever icons are displayed above the text box.  

The record audio button is a microphone, and the record video icon is a camera.

record buttons

Click either record button of your choosing. A box will appear and prompt you to begin recording. The first time you use either feature you will likely have to allow your browser to access your computer's microphone and/or webcam.  

When you begin your recording a two minute countdown will be displayed over the recording button. Stop the recording when you're done (otherwise it automatically stops when it reaches the two minute limit). You can listen to or watch the recording before saving.

This feature is a great way to incorporate media into your courses, and to personalize the delivery of your material.