Camtasia is a great tool for creating and editing instructional videos. For simple recordings, you can also try Microsoft Stream, which can record directly from your browser.
Here’s a quick guide to getting started with Camtasia Studio.
How do I install Camtasia?
- Request a license from the helpdesk.
- Download and install the free trial version from the Camtasia website.
- Enter your email and license key when prompted. You can still use the software free for 30 days before adding your license.
How can I learn to use Camtasia?
Techsmith (the company that created Camtasia) has an excellent Getting Started video and a complete library of training videos. You can also search their help center for answers to your questions and attend webinars (check their schedule for upcoming events).
For faculty interested in using Camtasia for their courses, here are some excellent training webinars from within CUNY:
- Camtasia Basics for Faculty and CLTs
- How to Use Camtasia in your Online and Hybrid Classes
- Benefiting Student Success: Using Camtasia to Create Learning Modules (CUNY Graduate Center)
How do I blur sensitive information in my videos?
Use the Camtasia blur tool.
How do I share my training videos?
Depending on the audience, you can share videos using CUNY-provided cloud storage services like Dropbox or OneDrive, Blackboard, or play them during Blackboard Collaborate and Zoom online meetings. If your videos contain any personal information, remember to redact the information in the Camtasia editor prior to hosting or sharing the video and review CUNY’s Acceptable Use of University Data in the Cloud.
What if I just need to annotate screenshots?
Mac and Windows computers have excellent built-in tools to take screenshots. CUNY also licenses another Techsmith product called SnagIt that is designed specifically for capturing and annotating screenshots. You can also request a license from the helpdesk. Learn more about taking screenshots.