I truly believe that anyone that labels themselves as an entrepreneur should be developing some type of online course to do three things: 1) to reach a broader audience with their message, 2) to validate their expertise, and last but definitely not least 3) to create passive income.
One reason is enough, but I gave you three! So now what are you waiting for? Oh. Okay. You need a little help. No worries; I got you!
In this guide, I am going to show you how to create an online course for $0, zilch, nada! Yes, no money out of your pocket. All the tools in this guide are free. So let's get started!
1. PowerPoint 2013 or Newer
Everyone has used PowerPoint at least once in their lives. So it makes sense that the smarty pants at Microsoft would decide to upgrade the program to include a video capturing feature. This tool is great for content creation and best of all...most already have it (Keynote for Mac Users). This tool is really all you need to create a simple video that you can turn into an online course.
2. An iPhone or Android Cellphone
Everybody has a cellphone and the ability to record themselves. Most phones these days have the capability of creating some awesome videos. So instead of making weird videos of your pets sleeping (okay I guess I only do that), why not use your camera to create your online course? It's just that simple; video yourself discussing your amazing topic and upload it. The cost to you is nada!
I use my cellphone to record all of my Facebook Lives and mini-trainings for quick tutorials. A few tools I purchased to make my life easier and so I didn’t have to hold and control the phone with my hands was a tripod and wireless remote. I purchased these super inexpensive tools from Amazon for a total of $16 (CamKix Tripid Kit for $9 and Hapurs Bluetooth Wireless Remote Control Camera Shutter for $7). They are completely optional, but for me it made recording a little easier. Click on the images to find them on Amazon.
3. CamStudio
CamStudio is a free video capturing software that is not affiliated with Camtasia Studio from Techsmith, but is part of the family that created Captivate (if you are familiar with eLearning tools). You can download it completely free. When you download it, you will go through a few prompts before you begin recording and then you are all set. This software turns screen and audio into industry standard AVI video files and the cost to you is nothing! J For Mac users there is a CamStudio alternative called Apower MacScreen Recorder for your recording pleasure.
4. Ezvid
Ezvid is one of the most robust free video capturing software available because not only does it record your screen and audio, there are a few advance features that allow you to customize your video.
You can add music, text slides, easy effects, and edit the video with an internal video editor. Most free software is incapable of doing this. Unfortunately EZvid is for PC users only, however my Mac friends, there is a good alternate to EZvid called Flimora Video Editor. Check it out and let me know what you think.
Bonus Software : Quicktime Player (For Mac Users Only)
I didn’t want you mac users to feel left out so I added Quicktime Player to this line up. If you have been a mac user for some time you are probably aware of this software because it plays your videos but you can also record your screen or a customize area. Make sure you have enough space on your hard drive; otherwise your recording times will be limited.
Whether you are a PC or Mac user, the software mentioned are some good options to begin recording your first online course. Continue to do your research and test them out. Keep in mind that because they are free, they may come with a few minor issues but overall should be good to use to create a simple video. Happy Training!
I always suggest practicing as much as you can before you record because most of the software mentioned does not come with editing features where you can cut out parts you don’t like or need to remove.