Screencasting on MacOS

On a Mac there is a built-in app called QuickTime that will help you get started screencasting, but other options do exist if you are looking for a little more flexibility. Here are some that are worth looking at.

1. QuickTime

This app is already installed on your computer, so there is nothing to download or install. You can record anything on your Mac with Quicktime, whether it is a browser window, a slide deck, an app or menu items like System Preferences and so forth. Watch the video below to learn how to screencast with QuickTime.

 

2. Screencast-o-Matic

An alternative tool for Mac users is Screencast-o-matic. Links to an external site. You are limited to 15 minutes of recording time with the free version of this tool, but don't let that put you off.  It is well worth exploring if you have not tried it before. Watch the video below for a demo and more information.

 

3. Screencastify

If you prefer the convenience of recording from your web browser, you can try a Chrome browser extension called Screencastify. This is a small add-on for the Chrome web browser that can be used to make screencasts. Click here to install the extension Links to an external site., and watch the video below to learn more.

 

4. Loom for Education

Loom is an increasingly popular tool for screencasting in Chrome or on Chromebooks. If you sign up and register for an education account Links to an external site., you get access to a free Loom Pro account that includes unlimited recording times and some other goodies. Click here to install the Loom Chrome Extension Links to an external site. or download the desktop app for Mac Links to an external site..

5. WeVideo

If your district has access to the premium version of WeVideo, you can use the screen recorder that is built-in to that tool. This can be useful if you want to edit your screencast or combine it with other video clips. See video below. Note: screen recording is NOT available in the free plan.

 

6. Zoom or Meet

By now you have probably used Zoom or Meet for a virtual video conference. However, you can also use these apps for screencasting because both of these tools have a screen recording feature built in to the app. Simply start a video call with yourself, share your screen, press record, and you will have your own screencast up and running in no time at all! 

 

7. TechSmith Capture

The artist formerly known as Jing has been resurrected as TechSmith Capture. This nifty tool will do both screenshots and screencasts. It is a free download for Mac and PC. Be sure to watch the video below to see how it works and pay special attention to where you can access your video file.