Abstract:

In today's society, videos are a straightforward and effective way of transmitting information. This is particularly evident among younger audiences. That is, among K-12, High School and University students. Therefore, preparing educational materials through videos allows teachers to reach their target audience more easily. Students prefer watching a video to constantly looking at the blackboard through a traditional lecture. Then, the teacher can use, to a greater or lesser extent, educational videos to transmit knowledge more effectively or in a way that the students more readily accept. Given this background, this paper evaluates the different video recording and editing software options available to create educational material. In the first place, the study focuses on free software as an essential condition for its use by any teacher anywhere in the world, especially in less wealthy areas. Secondly, different software options are collected depending on the user: student or teacher. Programs dedicated to creating videos by students can be classified according to their age: K-12, High School, and Higher Education.

Thirdly, the different software options are evaluated according to several parameters:
i.) compatibility with operating systems and platforms,
ii.) recording only or recording + editing,
iii.) editing only, screen recording only (screencasting) or screen recording + webcam,
iv.) possibility to insert text and other objects,
v.) availability,
vi.) ease of use,
vii.) learning curve,
viii.) number of functionalities,
ix.) availability of repositories of video effects,
x.) audio and transitions,
xi.) number of official tutorials, and
xii.) number of unofficial tutorials (social networks).

Given the high number of free software dedicated to recording and (especially) video editing, it is necessary to first sift through an internet search. With the search words "free video software for Education", numerous links appear with titles such as "The best free video tools for teachers", "The best video creation tools for teachers and students", or "10 awesome free video editing tools for teachers". In all of them, there are lists of the best tools for creating videos. Some applications coincide in several of the lists. However, interestingly, each list has apps that do not appear on the others. This points out a large number of tools available, which have grown exponentially over the last 10 years, leading to tough competition between them. Finally, two test videos will be created, applying different software programs for a Chemical Process Control laboratory practice subject. These videos will be made available to students for viewing prior to carrying out the practice. A survey will be created so the students can evaluate if the experience has been positive and helped them improve their understanding of the laboratory practices.

Keywords:

Educational video, video creation, free software.