The main objective of this TAU unique project is to meet the emerging needs for new e-learning technologies, modification, and adaptation of those technologies. The project also provides easy to use simple tools for production and processing of digital content.
To achieve these objectives the Tel Aviv University Computing Division video team has developed a model based on Microsoft standard tools - mainly Power Point and Producer. The model is easy to implement - even nonprofessional staff can produce video, Power Point slides and html synchronized content. The simplicity of the model enables large scale content production and significantly reduces the time needed to publish the content on the net. Most of the content is available to the students even on the same day. The method is divided into two phases: Production: during this phase the lecture is recorded in a standard lecture hall on a digital cam recorder and synchronized with the Power Point presentation. Publishing: this is the phase in which video content is converted to file. The video file and Power Point slides recorded timing are synchronized on Producer software. This is an almost automatic and simple process, at the end of which the content is uploaded to web server. Since the beginning of the pilot implementation (1 year) hundreds of recorded content hours are on the web and in extensive use by the students.
In addition to this model we have recently developed a new model that is specially tailored for training purposes. The model is based on a web page that combines two synchronized video streams. The first stream is a video of the lecturer and the second one is a video stream of the lecturer’s desktop activity. Both streams are synchronized and indexed. The web page is a generic one that builds up dynamically from a Windows Metafile and from markers located on video files. Several hours of training courses have already been recorded using this format.
This project is unique in its ability to empower low-cost /untrained /temporary staff to produce content without the need for expensive studio facilities and special equipment ( the simultaneous content production in multiple locations is an important outcome of this ability), as well as its special technical enhancements.
