Transcripts and Captions

graphic of person with headphones

A transcript is a written version of an audio file, and a closed caption (CC) is a written version of a video. All educational videos need to include captions.

 

CONSIDERATIONS WHEN RECORDING AUDIO OR VIDEO

If you are authoring a video or an audio file for your class, make sure your sound is clear and crisp, as this is vital to obtain an accurate transcript.

Follow these best practices to get good quality audio to help expedite the creation of the transcription and captions:

  1. If possible, record in a soundproof room or use one of the Media Rooms available via OET.
  2. If you are recording at home, isolate yourself away from noisy distractions, street traffic, and interruptions from family and pets.
  3. Use a stand-alone microphone instead of the microphone on your device, or use the headphones that come with your mobile device. Test before deciding what to use.
  4. Consider using a script to ease the experience in front of the microphone and to stay on topic.
  5. Speak clearly and slowly.
  6. Avoid talking while shuffling papers. Stop speaking before turning pages.
  7. Describe graphics, pictures, and your actions. Replace language such as: "As you can see here" with something like: "This graphic shows..." Or instead of silence, tell the audience what you are doing; for example, if you are writing something on the screen say: "Now I will add the 3,250 and the 5,460 amounts".
  8. Test your equipment by recording a one-minute sample and playing it back to check for volume and clarity.
  9. Practice, practice, practice.