How best to record a computer-based training with audio?

April 27, 2009 2:54 PM

Help me avoid needlessly repeating the same information over and over! Seeking something along the lines of a webinar utility to record computer-based trainings.

I work for an organization that relies on volunteers to answer phones and conduct intakes. Each time we have a new batch of volunteers or interns, I or another staff member must acquaint them with our intake and eligibility procedures. I'd like to be able to record a training so that the trainees can sit at a workstation and listen to my audio spiel while watching "me" navigate through the relevant forms and documents on the screen.

I know that webinar software comes close to what I need. However, the webinar solutions are expensive, especially considering that we will not be taking advantage of the key feature of a webinar (namely, live online participation.) Is there a simple, free or low-cost utility that allows you to record audio while capturing whatever is happening on your computer screen? My overworked vocal cords thank you in advance for your suggestions.

posted by messica to computers & internet (8 comments total)

CamStudio is open source; there are other similar programmes listed here.
posted by Paragon at 3:04 PM on April 27 [1 favorite has favorites]

Adobe Captivate is expensive, but I believe there is a 30-day trial.
posted by juliplease at 3:58 PM on April 27

Thank you! Screencasting is exactly what I need.
posted by messica at 4:17 PM on April 27

I have used both ScreenFlow and Snapz Pro X to record tutorials for the Mac. Both are reasonably priced, work as described and have trial demos available.
posted by coevals at 4:19 PM on April 27

A free screencasting alternative would be: Jing
posted by mathiu at 4:45 PM on April 27

A lot of my colleagues use Camtasia which just captures your screen with audio. I have used Captivate, which is more expensive but allows you to edit all kinds of stuff, which can be a negative (when is it done? never)
posted by Gor-ella at 4:59 PM on April 27

We used Camtasia and I would recommend it. Very easy to use but powerful.
posted by mazienh at 7:58 PM on April 27

Another free option: Webinaria.
posted by inkyroom at 9:01 PM on April 27