Useful Web 2.0 Video Applications (Free & Low-Cost)

Screencasting Apps - Webinaria & Jing

A screencast is a digital recording of computer screen output (video screen capture) often containing audio narration and even webcam video. Screencasts are often used for demonstrating software features and benefits for students. Creating a screencast helps instructors demonstrate step-by-step procedures of using software or to show students how a given assignment is completed using a particular program.

Webinaria is open source software (#1 for me). It allows you to create Flash (AVI to FLV) recordings of your desktop, record voice commentary with your presentation, save/edit your recordings to add voice, webcam or text.

Jing is a streamlined approach to content creation. It is perfect for adding a quick and simple visual elements to your day-to-day conversations.

Personalized speaking avatar - Voki & Fix8

Voki is a combination of "vox", which is Latin for voice, and "Loki", which, is a prankster character in Norse Mythology. Voki enables you to express yourselves on the web in your own voice using a talking character. You can customize your Voki to look like you or take on the identity of lots of other types of characters… animals, monsters, anime etc. Your Voki can speak with your own voice which is added via microphone, upload, or phone. Voki can live on your blog, social network profile or you can screencast Voki and integrate into your video.

Fix8 is a new creative communication tool that mixes avatars with you! Using facial-tracking technology, Fix8 offers an impressive twist to video, photo and instant messenger experiences. A variety of creative customizations from avatars and accessories to animated sounds and expressions are available for use in the multimedia online space.