Teaching A-Z

Lecture Recording and Reflection

There is no easier way to gather data on teaching than videoing your class.  While these recordings can be useful for your students (to review the class, catch something that they missed…), they are also very valuable as a tool for observing class events, environments, and interactions from a third person view. For critical reflection purposes, it is important to first view the recordings as objectively as possible and collect information on what you see and hear. You can then connect this to what your intentions were (analysis of efficacy).  When used over a period of time, the recordings can provide very tangible feedback on any changes to teaching practice. 

Many people are uncomfortable recording and watching themselves, so it is recommended that this be done a few times to help reduce the nervousness involved (and get a more accurate recording). For the best results, it is recommended that the process involves some formal reflection before and after the recorded class. Identify ahead of time specific activities or portions of your teaching that you want to observe, and following the collection of data reflect on what the collected data tells you about these. 

Tips for  recording your class for reflection purposes

Current phones, tablets and laptops have cameras, microphones, and storage that are more than sufficient for recording classes for reflective purposes. Things to consider:

  • Ensure you have sufficient battery life or power connection in the location you wish to record

  • Ensure you have sufficient storage for the time you wish to record, and that the software you are using will allow you to record for that time period

  • Plan placement, set up, and test the recording equipment in the space ahead of time. This will allow you to troubleshoot before the actual class.

  • Multiple cameras, one specifically on the instructor and one on the students, can be helpful in capturing the interactions.

  • If you require a tripod and attachment for your phone (or wish to use some more advanced recording equipment) the library has some for loan. See https://library.ulethbridge.ca/project-sandbox/equipment

It is essential to inform your students ahead of time that you will be recording the class, what specifically you are recording, and what will be done with the recording. According to the University of Lethbridge Privacy Policy, "The University will obtain the consent of an Interested Party for the collection, use or disclosure of their Personal Information, except required by law, or law enforcement or in emergency situations." Students have the right to withdraw their consent at any time.