Add Voice Narration to Google Slides Presentations with Screencastify!

A feature that is greatly missed by teachers since we have moved to online tools and resources instead of installed software is the ability for students to create video for projects; to blend images and sounds to convey a message. One solution that can fit the bill is to combine the features of Google Slides with Screencastify, a Chrome extension used for recording anything that you see on the screen of a laptop or Chromebook. 

Simply put, students begin by planning their project, and then collaboratively build their presentation with Google Slides. Next, they write a script (what they plan to say when each slide is being shown). After practicing their delivery, paying close attention to their speech (rate, volume, enunciation, expression), they use the Screencastify extension to record themselves narrating as they click through their presentation in full screen/presentation view. 

It seems complicated at first, but it is easy to do. Here are step-by-step instructions for downloading and installing the Screencastify extension, changing a few settings, and using keyboard shortcuts to start and stop the screen recording process. Have fun!

Jason Ohler on Discovery EdTech Connect, Wed 12/17, 7pm EST

Jason Ohler is this month’s featured speaker on Discovery Education’s EdTech Connect.  I got to know him last March when he came to the MACUL Conference.  The Elementary Education Special Interest Group sponsored a digital storytelling pre-conference session faciliated by Jason Ohler and it was FANTASTIC.  He understands the importance of telling a good story, and sees technology as secondary to the writing process.  I watched him transform technophobes into digital storytelling masters within a few hours!   Register to attend the webinar now!