Most teachers make use of a whiteboard, blackboard/greenboard, or smartboard. Screencast recordings and docu-cam recordings are allowed as long as you meet the minimum requirements of physically appearing in at least 30% of each video-lesson before moving onto the screencast or docu-cam. Each format has its own advantages. For more on this see: Recording Format

 

No. You are not required to correct any tests, quizzes or exercises. The Lersnys System auto-corrects all digital quizzes and tests created for each course. For courses such as math, geometry, physics, chemistry, etc., exercises are reviewed as a separate video-lesson where you go over the answers for each question so that you do not need to correct students' work individually.

 

Most teachers are familiar with the types of resources they can utilize already in the classroom. Although we do not provide legal advice on this point, generally speaking, under certain conditions you can use up to 10% of a work including an entire chapter (see below) for educational purposes. Legislation is largely similar in both Canada and the U.S. If you are unsure regarding "fair use" or "educational use", please consult with your corresponding copyright office. Many teachers use works whose copyright has already expired or works which have entered the public domain. If you search online, you will find hundreds of such works. Each year, new works enter the public domain after their copyright expire or their rights have been waived. You cannot, however, use materials which promote or advertise third-party services or services which compete with Lernsys.
Copyright in the Classroom
Programs-and-Initiatives-Copyright-and-Teaching

 

Yes. Although some parents prefer a curriculum which is more general in nature and which does not adhere strictly to a particular state's guidelines, other parents may want a curriculum which is state-specific or very similar to the one promoted by a given state or province. Although most states are members of the Common Core initiative, not all states have not adopted the initiative at a state level.

 

Yes. If you are accepted for participation, you can create a similar course but not one which is exactly the same as another teacher's course. Additionally, we only allow a limited amount of teachers to participate in any given subject and grade in order to protect the time and effort put into creating each course. We also don't believe it's advantageous for students to have an unlimited amount of similar courses or teachers available. Too many options can result confusing and overwhelming for students; however, there needs to be at least a few different options and choices to select from or students will go elsewhere to search for these options.

 

Yes. "Remedial" courses in math, writing, and science/biology are accepted for college-entry level students.

 

With over 55 million public school students and over 2.3 million homeschoolers in North America, there is no shortage of variety as to the exact content someone may need help with. Currently, we are only accepting college-level courses in the following business areas: business entrepreneurship, accounting, management-accounting, operations management, book-keeping, introduction to economics, economics, marketing, human resources management.

 

If you were provided a PDF or xlsx document, please note that it was meant for reference purposes only. You have final say on which topics to include, and how much emphasis you will put into each lesson and topic.

 

There are no costs or fees for joining Lernsys, uploading lessons or courses. However, we reserve the right to select and accept only those instructors who we believe have a unique set of skills and can add real value to our academic network. Typically, Lernsys instructors are either invited directly or referred to us for consideration by their colleagues or students. Because we are legally bound under the Privacy Rules and Conditions of Use, and are not allowed to share personal details on the individual who made the submission/referral. For more on this, see here.

 

No. You are not permitted to advertise in your course, either directly or indirectly, any third-party services or use materials which promote or advertise third-party services or to promote products or services which compete with Lernsys. A violation of this regulation may result in Teacher Account Suspension. If you are unsure if the use of a particular material violates this policy, please consult with us prior to its usage.

 

We understand that many teachers may acquire a considerable set of new next-generation skills through Lernsys which may help further their careers in education significantly or make them desirable candidates for tech-related positions including supervision or management of online education portals and systems. While you may list Lernsys in your resume, note that we only validate third-party reference requests (with your prior request and approval) for teachers who have completed and published a full course per the Lernsys course publishing guidelines.

Yes. Each teacher we select is an investment Lernsys makes in different areas such as tech support, marketing, server space, sales, etc. For this reason, we pride ourselves in selecting only the best of the best. We provide free course/lesson creation email support, tools, free software, written and audio-visual guidelines and tutorials, troubleshooting tips, and an extensive FAQs knowledge base.

Most of the tools you need you probably already possess; some we will provide to you. You will need a computer with an internet connection, a digital camera (some teachers use their Iphone (4s or later) or Samsung Galaxy (s4 or later) as both of these support HD recording, a presentation aid (whiteboard, blackboard, projector, smartboard, or docu-cam) and basic video-editing software. Keep in mind that actual digital cameras, and some tablets tend to record audio much better than cellphones.

 

Generally speaking, you want to stay away from video editing programs which are too complex or meant for expert users or professional video production. Such program often include complex visual effects capabilities and transitions. Simple programs such as Windows Movie Maker, Avidemux, or Filmora Wondershare usually will have enough options and tools to render a very professional video-lesson without a long learning curve.

 

The following list of free or semi-free video editing programs is offered for informational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement by Lernsys of any of them. Lernsys does not offer, sell or provide technical support for any of the programs listed below. To download any of the programs, or for additional information, tutorials, support and help, please refer to each of the program's designated web pages.

1) Machete Video Editor Lite (Windows)

(Source: Softonic)

At the simple end of the spectrum is Machete Video Editor Lite, which allows you to cut, copy, and paste different sections of video. As the Machete website puts it, Video Editor Lite was "designed for quick and simple 'slicing' of your video files."

The program's intuitive interface means you won't have to waste time shuffling through technical support documents. And because Video Editor Lite doesn't re-encode your video files when you slice them, you don't have to worry about losing video quality.

The main downsides to the program? It only supports the AVI and WMV video formats, and it doesn't allow for audio editing. Still, if you have zero video editing experience and only need to make simple edits, it's a great option.

2) Avidemux (Windows/Mac/Linux)

(Source: Softonic)

Like Machete Video Editor Lite, Avidemux allows you to do basic video editing (no audio editing) without having to worry about loss of video quality. But Avidemux also has a few more tricks up its sleeve.

For starters, the program supports multiple video formats, including AVI, DVD, MPEG, QuickTime, and MP4. What's more, Avidemux comes with several filters that allow you to perform a host of different functions, from flipping and rotating clips, to adding subtitles, to adjusting colors and brightness levels.

And while the learning curve for Avidemux is slightly steeper compared to Machete Video Editor Lite, the upside is that there's an extensive Avidemux wiki that covers everything you need to know.

3) WeVideo (Cloud-based)

(Source: WeVideo)

Cloud-based video editing software (i.e., software that you access via a browser instead of downloading directly to your hard drive) is growing more and more popular. And one of the programs leading the charge is WeVideo.

Compared to the first two programs on this list, WeVideo definitely offers some more advanced features and functionality, including audio editing capabilities and a library of commercially licensed music. However, the free version of WeVideo isn't without its limitations.

One major downside is that you're only given 5GB of cloud storage. If you are making a one-off video, this is fine. But if you're planning to edit multiple videos, you'll probably need more space. The free version also puts a WeVideo watermark on your videos, which isn't ideal.

For a complete breakdown of the differences between WeVideo's free and paid options, check out their pricing page.

4) VSDC Free Video Editor (Windows)

(Source: Softonic)

In experienced hands, the VSDC Free Video Editor can produce some very professional-looking video. In addition to supporting nearly every major video format, the program offers advanced video effects, including object transformation and color correction, as well as advanced audio effects like volume correction and sound normalization. And unlike WeVideo, the VSDC Free Video Editor is truly free. You can use the program's full feature set without having to deal with pesky watermarks.

Unfortunately, there is one catch. If you want technical support, you need to pay. Support for the VSDC Free Video Editor costs $1 for one month, $5 for half a year, and $10 for a full year.

5) Windows Movie Maker (Windows/Mac)

 

Windows Movie Maker is a very popular video editor and slideshow maker by Microsoft which up to very recently came pre-installed on most Windows-based PC's. You can quickly create and edit videos with easy-to-use professional editing tools. .MOV and .MP4 support have also been added. Multiple video themes which are customizable, so that you can change the text color size and font of that theme are also available. You can also provide the time instance for text and music as well. You can trim multiple parts from video and can also select another video and merge. It includes video filters like Sepia, Mirror, Negative and more. You can add music as well and trim, split, copy for further advance separation of videos which you might have earlier trimmed. There are transition effects between merged videos like rotation, tile, smooth water transition and more.

6) Blender (Windows/Mac/Linux)

(Source: Blender)

The open source program Blender is more than just a video editor: It's a full-blown 3D animation suite, which allows for modeling, rendering, motion tracking, and more.

On the video editing side, there are a ton of features, including transitions, speed control, filters, adjustment layers, and more. There are also 32 slots available for adding video clips, audio clips, images, and effects, which means you can produce some incredibly complex video.

For the amateur video editor, all the functionality that's available can be overwhelming and even too much.

7) Lightworks (Windows/Mac/Linux)

(Source: ZDNet)

Like Blender, Lightworks is definitely on the more advanced (and powerful) end of the video editing software spectrum. In fact, it's a program that's been used to edit some well-known and award-winning films, including Pulp Fiction, L.A. Confidential, and The King’s Speech.

There are two different licenses you can choose from with Lightworks: "Free" and "Pro." The main difference between the two licenses is that the Pro version offers more features, including stereoscopic output and advanced project sharing. But the free version is still quite powerful, providing 100+ effects and supporting multicam editing.

Too see the complete list of differences between Lightworks Free and Pro, check out their "Compare Versions" page

8. Wondershare Filmora (Windows/Mac)

(Source: Wondershare)

Wondershare Filmora (formerly Wondershare Video Editor) is the perfect option if you want to start out with basic video editing functionality while also having the opportunity to get more advanced as you go.

The program's "Easy Mode" strips away the complexity so you can drag and drop video clips, choose a pre-designed theme, add some music, and produce a finished video in a matter of minutes. Go into "Full Feature Mode," however, and you'll be able to do much, much more -- from adding transitions, filters, and overlays, to playing video clips in reverse, to using split-screen effects.

Unfortunately, the free version of Wondershare Filmora adds a very visible watermark to your videos that you probably will not want there and which you can only remove through upgrading to their paid service.

 

No. Presently, even the most inexpensive digital cameras (under $150) are able to shoot in both 720 and 1080. An important factor often overlooked is audio-quality which is equally important as video quality. You will simply need to ensure that audio comes across clearly, loudly and free from outside noises and interference. Lernsys Central contains an area with many tips and best practices for improving your video and audio recordings and recommendations for equipment you can use. You must have an approved Lernsys Teacher Account to access Lernsys Central. Some of the cameras used by our teachers include:

•    Go Pro cameras

•    HD Flip cameras

•    iPhone (iPhone 4 and above)

•    iPad (iPad 2 and above)

•    Samsung Galaxy (S4 and above)

•    Samsung Galaxy Tab (2 and above)

•    Most webcams will work fine

•    Most DSLR and digital cameras

•    Computer (desktop or laptop)

 

•    Digital camera (for recommended devices, see above "Do I need professional or expensive video recording equipment?")

 

•    Internet access

 

•    Presentation aid (whiteboard, blackboard/greenboard, projection screen, smartboard, screencast, or docu-cam)

 

You will need some type of video editing program. There are many of these widely available; some even for free. Lernsys Central contains links to download free video optimization and conversion software to reduce the video size and convert the format if necessary (.mp4). You must have an approved Lernsys Teacher Account to access Lernsys Central. For a list of some popular video editing programs, see above "Where can I find free video editing software?".

 

Generally, you don't need a special microphone if you position the camera not too far away from you and if you speak loudly throughout the entire lesson. Making sure there is no outside noise is important. There are some very effective clip-on mics that can produce some incredible quality and which are not overly expensive (under $50). Lernsys Central contains an area with many tips and best practices for improving your video and audio recordings and recommendations for equipment you can use. You must have an approved Lernsys Teacher Account to access Lernsys Central. Some of the mics used by our teachers include:

 

•    Sony ECM CS3 

 

•    Samson Go Mic

 

•    Blue Snowball

 

•    Blue Yeti

 

Setting up the recording area is usually not difficult. Private teachers and tutors often prepare a similar setup for private lessons. You need an area which is properly illuminated, free from noise and disturbances and a presentation aid (whiteboard, smartboard, projection screen, blackboard/greenboard, desktop recording/screencast, or docu-cam). Generally speaking, you will teach the lesson or present the lecture in much the same way you normally give a lecture or explain a topic to your students. See examples below:

 Video-lesson using a docu-cam (Please read special considerations for using a docu-cam.)

 

Boards must have a minimum of 48" diagonally. Lernsys recommends 6' x 4' (4' x 6') boards simply because these boards allow for much more content to be displayed at once and allow for the camera to be positioned a bit further, giving the student a broader view. Larger boards appear more professional and are often only 15 to 20% more expensive than a smaller one. The price difference between a larger board and a smaller one is also compensated by the time saved having to erase the board less frequently which can also translate into less video-editing. These two factors alone can save you considerable time by the time you finish creating the entire course. Whether you choose to use a 6' x 4' board is up to you. The minimum requirement is 48" diagonally. 5' x 3' boards are also available.   

 

Whiteboard (roll) 6' x 4' at  Amazon.com (USA)

Congratulations! You have been invited to participate in the leading academic network for teachers and students. However, please keep in mind that an invitation does not necessarily mean that you will be accepted. You must first register a Teacher Account and send us a test video-lesson before your account is fully activated. Lernsys's educators include seasoned teachers, nationally-recognized educators, and award-winning recepients. Lernsys's educators represent a wide variety of backgrounds, skills and expertise and includes both retired and new educators who have been praised by their students or colleagues for bringing energy, passion and dedication to the classroom.

 

If you have already created your Teacher Account but have not sent it your example video lesson, you will not be able to access the Lernsys System. You are allowed, however, to navigate the rest of the site and make use of any of our free resources for teachers.

 

Please visit:  Teacher Registration Page

 

Lernsys.org is a sister site owned by Lernsys which only provides information. Even if you have already registered on Lernsys.org, you will still need to register on Lernsys.com to gain access to the Lernsys System and the course creation tools.

 

Your invitation will typically include steps you should follow to be considered for participation. If you were referred or invited directly by a member of our staff, they will usually instruct you on next steps. However, please keep in mind that an invitation does not guarantee acceptance. If you have not been invited or referred, you will need to email us a copy of your resume, teaching licence or instructor's certificate, and two professional references.

 

If you have been accepted and created a Teacher Account but cannot access the backend, please allow up to 72 hours for the account to be generated and enabled. If you have not yet sent your example video lesson, you will need to complete this step first before your account is fully enabled. You will receive a notification email once your Teacher Account has been activated.