Storyboarding is a crucial step in creating effective eLearning videos. It’s the visual blueprint that maps out your video scene by scene, ensuring a clear narrative, smooth flow, and alignment with your learning objectives. This beginner’s guide will walk you through the process.

What is a Storyboard?

A storyboard is a sequence of drawings or images arranged in panels that illustrate the story of your video. Think of it like a comic strip version of your script. Each panel represents a scene or shot, including visual elements, character actions, and sometimes even dialogue or notes. eLearning video production in Geneva Switzerland

Why Storyboard for eLearning Videos?

• Clarity and Focus: Storyboarding forces you to think through your video’s message and structure, ensuring a clear and focused narrative.
• Visualizing the Flow: It helps visualize the flow of your video, identifying potential gaps or confusing transitions before you start production.
• Collaboration: Storyboards serve as a communication tool for your team (writers, designers, animators, etc.), ensuring everyone is on the same page.
• Efficiency: By planning ahead, you can save time and resources during the actual video production process.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Identifying potential issues early can prevent costly revisions later on.
• Learner Experience: A well-structured storyboard contributes to a better learner experience by ensuring a clear and engaging video.

How to Create a Storyboard for eLearning Videos:

1. Start with a Script: Your script is the foundation of your video. Make sure it’s finalized before you start storyboarding.
2. Identify Key Scenes: Break down your script into key scenes or moments. Each scene will typically have its own panel in the storyboard.
3. Sketch or Use Templates: You can sketch your storyboard panels by hand or use digital tools and templates. Even simple stick figures can be effective.
4. Visual Elements: In each panel, illustrate the key visual elements of the scene:
   • Characters: Who is in the scene and what are they doing?
   • Background: Where is the scene taking place?
   • Objects: What objects are present in the scene?
   • Camera Angle and Movement: How will the camera be positioned and will it move? (e.g., close-up, wide shot, panning, zooming)
5. Add Notes: Include brief notes below each panel to describe the action, dialogue, or any other important details.
6. Arrange the Panels: Arrange the panels in chronological order to tell the story of your video.
7. Review and Revise: Review your storyboard with your team and make any necessary revisions.

Tips for Effective Storyboarding:

• Keep it Simple: Don’t worry about creating perfect artwork. Stick figures and basic shapes are often enough to convey your ideas.
• Focus on the Key Message: Each panel should contribute to the overall message of your video.
• Think About Pacing: Consider the pacing of your video and how each scene will flow into the next.
• Use Visual Cues: Use arrows, symbols, and other visual cues to indicate camera movements, transitions, and other important details.
• Get Feedback: Share your storyboard with others and get their feedback.

Tools for Storyboarding:

• Paper and Pencil: The simplest and most accessible tool.
• Storyboard Templates: Many free templates are available online in various formats (PDF, Word, etc.).
• Digital Storyboarding Software: Tools like Storyboard Pro, Boords, and StudioBinder offer more advanced features for creating and collaborating on storyboards.
• Presentation Software: Programs like PowerPoint or Google Slides can be used to create simple digital storyboards.

Conclusion:

Storyboarding is an essential part of the eLearning video production process. By taking the time to create a well-thought-out storyboard, you can ensure a clear, engaging, and effective video that achieves its learning objectives. It’s an investment that pays off in the long run by saving time, money, and frustration during production.