Category: Video
A Fresh Look at Zoom: Exploring the New Web Portal Experience

A Fresh Look at Zoom: Exploring the New Web Portal Experience

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Coming soon to a Zoom web portal near you: an update to look and feel of the user interface (UI). On September 30th, Zoom will be updating the look and feel of the Zoom web portal. Will this affect how you join meetings? No! This change only affects those who use the web portal to access recordings, transcripts, whiteboards, and account settings. 

What is going to change? Here is a look at how you saw the web portal before and what the new version will look like on September 30th. Here are two comparison images of the old and new interfaces.

Old Zoom web portal interface
The Zoom web portal interface prior to September 30th, 2026.
New Zoom web portal UI
The new Zoom web portal UI.

In the new interface, you can still access all the same features, but they will just be in a different place. If you want to poke around and look at the differences, go ahead and sign in to the web portal. Once you have signed in, you should see a toggle in the upper right corner where you can enable or disable the changes before September 30th.

zooom web portal toggle
Toggle the new Zoom web portal experience on or off.

Looking to change the settings for all your meetings? All settings may be accessed via a pop-out menu. Here you can change your settings for meetings and look at all the features that Zoom has, such as Zoom AI, which is included in Loyola’s license. Explore the Zoom AI settings to fine-tune how you use AI in virtual meetings.

new Zoom UI navigation menu
Select Settings from the main navigation menu to access all account and meeting settings.

Looking for all your cloud-based recordings and whiteboards? You can locate recordings and transcripts in the menu on the left underneath the “Library” heading.  To view saved whiteboards, select the waffle icon in the top-right corner of the screen.

Zoom web portal waffle menu
Select the waffle icon to access additional Zoom content.

Hopefully this article helps you navigate the new changes to the web portal if you were using it already, or it helped introduce you to a new way to manage meetings and add new tools to assist you in running your Zoom meetings efficiently! If you have trouble navigating the new Zoom web portal UI, reach out to the ITS Service Desk for assistance. As a reminder, these changes will go live on September 30th! After September 30th, 2026, all users will be automatically opted in to the new Zoom web portal experience.
Is it Real or is it AI? Introducing Elai and the Future of Video Creation

Is it Real or is it AI? Introducing Elai and the Future of Video Creation

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This blog post is about AI, the future, Bill Gates, and – most importantly – an introduction to Elai – a new video creation tool coming to LUC soon! 

AI and The Future 

Differing reactions towards the ascent and ongoing advancement of AI capabilities have been well documented for years. Based on a survey from the Alan Turing Institute, the majority of participants are optimistic about AI usage in a variety of different sectors. In the article “The Age of AI Has Begun,” Bill Gates highlights several key areas where AI is making significant strides including healthcare, education, and climate change. He believes that AI can improve diagnostics, personalize learning experiences, and optimize resource management to combat environmental challenges.  

In contrast with the optimism expressed in the sources above, AI certainly has its detractors and alarmists ranging from educators who worry about academic dishonesty to employees who panic at the prospect of unemployment.  In the same article, Bill Gates also points out the ethical considerations and potential risks associated with AI, such as job displacement and the importance of ensuring that AI systems are aligned with human values. 

On a much smaller scale than the stakes mentioned by Bill Gates, AI is already transforming the way we create videos for the better. Platforms such as Elai empower users with AI by enabling them to use their creative skills to produce high quality resources. 

What is Elai?  

Elai is an innovative platform that leverages artificial intelligence to revolutionize the way we create and manage video content. It empowers users to generate professional-quality videos in a matter of minutes, eliminating the complexities that often accompany traditional video production processes. With its user-friendly interface and advanced technology, Elai caters to a wide range of users, from marketers and educators to content creators and businesses looking to enhance their online presence. 

At the core of Elai’s functionality is its AI-driven text-to-video technology. Users can simply input text scripts, and the platform automatically generates videos complete with dynamic visuals, voiceovers, and animations. This feature significantly reduces the time and resources needed for video production which makes it an invaluable tool for those who require quick turnarounds without compromising on quality. The ability to create videos in multiple languages further broadens its appeal, which allows users to reach diverse audiences around the globe. 

One of the standout features of Elai is its extensive library of customizable templates. These templates are designed to cater to various industries and purposes. Users can choose from a variety of styles, colors, and layouts, enabling them to create videos that align with their brand identity. This level of customization ensures that the final product is not only professional but also uniquely tailored to the user’s needs. 

Additionally, Elai offers a selection of AI-generated avatars that can serve as virtual presenters in videos. This feature allows for a more engaging and personal touch, as users can select avatars that resonate with their target audience. The avatars can express emotions and deliver the script in a natural manner to make the content more relatable and captivating.  

The platform also includes editing tools that enable users to refine their videos easily. Users can trim clips, adjust timings, and insert additional elements such as images and graphics, all without requiring advanced video editing skills. This accessibility democratizes video production, allowing anyone, regardless of their technical expertise, to create high-quality content. 

In conclusion, Elai stands at the forefront of video content creation by combining the power of AI with user-friendly design to simplify the video production process. Its diverse features including customizable templates, AI avatars, and collaborative tools make it an essential platform for anyone looking to create engaging, professional-quality videos quickly and efficiently.  

How does AI enhance video production?  

The integration of AI in video production significantly enhances creativity in several compelling ways: 

  • Automated Content Generation: AI tools can quickly transform text scripts into visually engaging videos. This automation allows creators to focus more on the creative aspects of storytelling rather than getting bogged down in technical details. 
  • Enhanced Customization and Personalization: AI enables users to customize videos easily, offering a wide range of templates, styles, and elements tailored to specific audiences or brand identities.  
  • Data-Driven Insights: AI can analyze audience engagement metrics and feedback, providing creators with valuable insights into what resonates with viewers. This data can inspire new ideas and empower creators to refine their content strategies and innovate based on real-time feedback. 
  • Collaborative Tools: Many AI video production platforms offer collaborative features that facilitate teamwork among creators.  
  • Rapid Prototyping: AI allows for quick iterations on video concepts. Creators can generate multiple versions of a video in a short time while experimenting with different scripts, visuals, and audio options.  
  • Accessibility for Non-Experts: AI democratizes video production, enabling individuals without extensive technical skills to create high-quality content. 
  • Inspiration Through AI Suggestions: AI can analyze existing content and suggest creative directions, themes, or styles based on trends and successful videos. These suggestions can spark inspiration by helping creators think outside the box and develop unique concepts. 

In summary, the use of AI in video production enhances creativity by automating mundane tasks, providing customization options, offering data-driven insights, and enabling collaboration. This empowers creators to focus on their artistic vision and produce innovative, engaging content that resonates with audiences. Elai provides users with an effective enhancement to their workflow but without completing the entire task on their behalf. While Elai does not conjure presentations out of thin air, it gives users a helpful push in creating an excellent final product. 

When will Elai be available at LUC?  

Elai will be available at LUC on a trial basis for one calendar year beginning on May 1st, 2025. Stay tuned for more details on how to request access to this exciting pilot! 

The Transformative Power of Multimedia in Higher Education Online Course Design

The Transformative Power of Multimedia in Higher Education Online Course Design

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In the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, online courses have become a cornerstone of learning, providing flexibility and accessibility to students worldwide. Amid this shift, the role of multimedia in online course design has emerged as a key factor in shaping engaging and effective learning experiences.

Enhanced Engagement and Retention

Multimedia elements, such as videos, graphics, and interactive content, have a profound impact on student engagement and information retention. The combination of visual and auditory stimuli not only captures attention but also facilitates a deeper understanding of complex concepts. Engaged students are more likely to retain information and actively participate in discussions, creating a vibrant online learning community.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Multimedia in online course design goes beyond text-based content, making educational materials accessible to diverse learners. Visual aids, for instance, benefit those with different learning preferences, and captioned videos ensure content accessibility for individuals with hearing impairments. Embracing multimedia promotes inclusivity and accommodates a wide range of learning styles, fostering an environment where every student can thrive.

Real-world Application

Integrating multimedia elements allows educators to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. Videos, simulations, and case studies provide students with practical insights, enabling them to see how the concepts they learn in class are applied in professional settings. This approach not only enhances the relevance of the content but also prepares students for the challenges they may encounter in their future careers.

Global Collaboration and Connectivity

Multimedia facilitates global collaboration by breaking down geographical barriers. Video conferencing, collaborative online projects, and multimedia-rich discussions enable students to connect with peers and experts from around the world. This interconnectedness not only broadens perspectives but also prepares students for a globalized workforce, where effective communication and collaboration are essential skills.

Adaptability and Personalization

Multimedia supports the creation of adaptive and personalized learning experiences. Through interactive quizzes, multimedia presentations, and self-paced modules, students can tailor their learning journey to their individual needs and preferences. This flexibility accommodates diverse learning paces and styles, empowering students to take control of their education.

The incorporation of multimedia in higher education online course design is not merely a trend but a necessity in creating dynamic, engaging, and inclusive learning environments. As educational institutions continue to embrace the digital landscape, the transformative power of multimedia will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of online education, fostering a rich and interactive educational experience for students worldwide.

Coming Soon: Panopto 9

Coming Soon: Panopto 9

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Panopto 9.0

Greetings from ITRS! We are pleased to announce the arrival of Panopto 9, Loyola’s official lecture capturing platform. The following features and enhancements are now available to all Loyola users:

  • Panopto Capture – An exciting new web-based recorder that allows users to easily capture video, audio, screens, and applications using a web browser (no software download required).
  • New Mobile Apps – Recently updated apps for Android and iOS provides users with an enhanced and user-friendly experience in Panopto on mobile devices including support for offline recordings, a personalized homepage, an improved search experience, and the ability to record and upload content from your phone.
  • Multi-language captions – Tracks for captions in specific languages are now available in recording settings. Creators can add captions in multiple languages and viewers can easily switch from one language to another.

For more information on Panopto, please visit this guide.

Record a Webcam Video with QuickTime Pro

Record a Webcam Video with QuickTime Pro

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With QuickTime Pro for Mac, you can easily record a webcam video directly to your hard drive.   Quicktime Pro offers a straightforward interface to record your video, as well as provides as the option to convert video files into a variety of formats. Take note that Quicktime Pro for Windows only supports audio capture.

If you don’t already have QuickTime Pro, you can purchase the download for about $30 at the Apple Store.

Here are a few steps to record a video from your webcam:

  1. If you don’t have a built-in camera, you must attach an external webcam
  2. Go to File > New Movie Recording
  3. A video screen will appear; when you are ready, press the red-circle record button
  4. After you are finished recording, the video will automatically save as a .mov file to your desktop. If you want to export it as a different format, select File > Export
Technology Videos: In Plain English

Technology Videos: In Plain English

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As online tools such as blogs, Twitter and RSS feeds are becoming more widely used to share information, it’s helpful to know about resources that explain how these tools work, while still remaining interesting.  Common Craft’s In Plain English series provides fun and simple tutorials on several areas, including technology, money, society and the environment.  Each video features paper cut-outs and narration; some technology topics include podcasting, RSS and Wikis.  Even though these videos are lighthearted, they are very well-made and informative and definitely worth sharing with colleagues or in the classroom.    

 Video Source:  http://www.commoncraft.com/blogs