Video Streamed Orientation--The Pros

Able to reach an unlimited number of simultaneous users.
Available on demand--an important attribute of self-directed instruction.
Frees librarians to concentrate on in-depth and one-on-one instruction and assistance.
Engages the interest of students comfortable with using the Internet to obtain information.

Video Streamed Orientation--The Cons

Equipment and software will be needed. Budget for this or find collaborators and supporters who can provide.
Careful analysis of instructional needs and thorough project conceptualization are necessary for a successful end product. If uncomfortable with such conceptualization and planning, help will be needed from others.
Revisions will be needed on a timely basis if changes occur that affect the content of the video. Design modules to allow easy updates.
Bandwidth may be a barrier, especially for distance education use, as streaming works best with high speed Internet connections.

Library Applications of Video Streaming

A visual tour that serves as a public relations tool to reach prospective students and their parents or potential donors.
Library orientation and instruction, especially for large or multi-section lower division classes with similar assignments or for new library users.
General orientation for upper division and graduate students to be viewed before a library session, leaving class time for more specialized instruction.
Tutorials for especially challenging research materials.
Tutorials for distance education students covering library services and the research process.
In-house training for library staff or students assistants.

Video Streaming Equipment Needs-the Basics

1. Digital Video Camera
2. iMac for creation and editing of video--(Includes iMovie software )
3. An http based server for delivery of streamed video

Video Streaming Equipment Needs-Add-ons and Options

1. Cameras--Many alternatives, price is determined by features!
2. Digitizing Equipment

Mac---iMac AV, the logical choice, contains everything needed to make quality streamed video

Windows---many possible AV configurations for PC's which support RealMedia or WindowsMedia. Consult company's web pages for suggestions. Make sure video capture card is compatible with chosen software.

3. Editing

Strata (DV and Video Shop) offers several levels of editing packages for both Mac and Windows

Real offers several levels of Real Producer for both platforms

IMovie is bundled with iMac AV's

Final Cut Pro is an editor for Macs with the flexibility to create professional level video.

4. Delivery

Both Real and QuickTime allow video to be stored on a standard http server.

If using rttp protocol streaming, an appropriate server and software will be needed to support your platform(s).

A Selection of URL's Helpful for Video Streaming

Apache Software Foundation -- http://www.apache.org
Apple -- http://www.apple.com Provides information on the streaming friendly computer, the iMac DV and the editing suite "Final Cut Pro."
Interview -- http://xlr8.com/ProductInfo/interview/ A solution for digitizing media to non AV Macs.
QuickTime -- http://quicktime.com Includes an overview of products and technologies, plus information about making and delivering video on the web.
QuickTime Developers' Information -- http://devworld.apple.com/quicktime/ Provides conceptual as well as technical information for using QuickTime to its fullest capabilities.
RealMedia -- http://www.real.com/player/index.html An overview of Real's products (including downloads) and suggestions for producing streamed media.
Terran's Media Cleaner Pro -- http://www.terran.com/ A review of several products designed to enhance streamed video. It includes a downloadable booklet "How to Produce High-Quality QuickTime" with advice for those entering the world of streaming.
Video Shop by Strata -- http://shop.3d.com/strata/videoshop/ Provides information on this video editing system.
Windows Media by Microsoft -- http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windowsmedia The best starting place for information on capturing and editing digitized video with Windows based PC's.

See our videos: Business Reference and University of Tennessee Libraries Virtual Tour at:

http://www.lib.utk.edu/instruction/tours.html

Read an article about our initial experiments with video streaming:

Crowther, Karmen N.T., and Alan Wallace. "Delivering video-streamed library orientation on the Web." C&RLNews 62. 3 (March 2001) pp. 280-285.