Educational Media Catalogue
Welcome to the Educational Media Catalogue, your guide to creating engaging and effective digital learning materials. This catalogue introduces various video, audio, and interactive media formats that you can use in your teaching.
Whether you want to record lectures, create podcasts, or design interactive learning experiences, this resource will help you choose the right format. You will also find real-world examples from Aalto University, insights into how each format enhances learning, and practical tips for getting started with Aalto’s media tools and services.
1. Self-service media creation
If you want to create your own teaching media with minimal technical setup, self-service content is the best place to start. Aalto University provides easy-to-use tools and studios that allow you to produce high-quality videos and recordings on your own.
1.1 Home/office-style video
A talking head video is a simple way to create online lecture content. You can record yourself speaking directly to the camera using your laptop or webcam at home or in your office. Tools like Panopto make it easy to record, edit, and share your video with students.
This format is perfect for flipped classrooms, online courses, or quick explanations of complex topics. For the best results, make sure to have good lighting, clear audio, and a structured script to keep your content engaging.
1.2 Self service studio video
If you want to create your own teaching media with minimal technical setup, self-service content is the best place to start. Aalto University provides easy-to-use tools and studios that allow you to produce high-quality videos and recordings on your own. A high-quality video created independently in Aalto's Self-Service Studio (in the Marsio building). The studio provides a controlled environment with better lighting, sound, and camera equipment than a typical home setup.
1.3 Classroom Lecture Capture
A video recorded during an actual lecture using classroom-installed cameras and microphones. These recordings capture the live teaching experience and can be created with systems like Panopto. If you are teaching in an Aalto classroom, you can automatically record your lecture using the classroom’s Lecture Capture system. This is a great way to provide students with reviewable materials, especially if they miss a class or need extra time to process the content.
Your recording will include your voice, video, and any screen content you present, such as slides or a digital whiteboard. The system is integrated with Panopto, making it easy to access and share the recordings. You can check if your classroom has Lecture Capture enabled by visiting .
1.4 Lightboard video
Lightboard Studio is a local facility located at Otakaari 1, M143. It is designed to facilitate the creation of high-quality instructional videos, particularly for STEM subjects. Traditionally, concepts explained using chalkboards or whiteboards can be effectively demonstrated in an engaging visual format using the Lightboard.
Beyond STEM topics, Lightboard has also been utilized for language learning and various creative applications, such as mapping out worldclouds and conceptual explanations. The studio operates in a self-service mode, allowing users to easily record videos by simply connecting their laptop and starting the recording.
Additionally, the Educational Media Team can assist in producing 4K-quality videos and provide support on key aspects, including video editing and contact points for further resources.
2. Video creation with specialist help
If you want to create high-quality, professional videos, Teacher Services and Aalto Studios offer specialist support and advanced production facilities. These options are ideal for projects that require multiple cameras, expert editing, or a more polished final product.
Teaching Studio
A professional recording space designed for creating high-quality instructional videos. The Teaching Studio offers controlled lighting, adjustable camera, microphones, and two HD screens for visual. It supports various teaching styles, such as lecture-style recordings, TED Talk–like presentations, or content with slides and animations. Ideal for educators who want polished, engaging videos for blended or online learning.
2.1 Fireside chat / Interview / Panel discussion in the Teaching Studio
A relaxed yet professional video format for insightful discussions, expert interviews, or panel conversations. Recorded on a versatile stage setup. Two wall-sized displays can provide dynamic visuals or branding. Speaker screens offer real-time cues, keeping the conversation smooth and engaging. Ideal for expert panels, fireside chats, and video podcasts where authentic discussions take center stage.
2.2 Speaker-focused educational video in the Teaching Studio
A professional, high-impact presentation video designed for clear and engaging knowledge delivery. Recorded on a stage with two wall-sized displays, this format allows seamless integration of visuals to support your message. A teleprompter ensures a smooth, confident delivery, while two speaker screens provide real-time cues. With pro lighting and a single-camera setup, the result is a polished, TED-style video that highlights the speaker’s expertise and enhances audience engagement. Ideal for expert talks, keynote-style lectures, and educational content.
2.3 Custom setups in Mini Studio
If you need a flexible and customizable recording setup, Aalto’s Mini Studio offers a compact yet powerful space for creating educational videos. Unlike the Self-Service Studio, the Mini Studio allows you to personalize the recording environment with different backgrounds, including green screen, adjustable lighting, and various camera angles.
This setup is ideal if you want to experiment with new video formats, such as demonstration videos, close-up product shots, or creative lecture styles that require custom framing and composition. You can also connect external devices, such as tablets, secondary cameras, or additional microphones, to create multi-source recordings.
Since the Mini Studio offers more advanced customization and professional support, its use involves costs, depending on the scope of your project. To book a session, you should first contact Aalto Studios AV Productions Team, who will help you determine the best setup for your needs and provide details about availability and pricing.
3. Interactive media
If you want to make your learning materials more engaging, interactive media allows students to actively participate in the content rather than just watching or listening.
3.1 Thinglink
With ThingLink, you can create interactive images and videos that include clickable rich media hotspots, embedded links, and additional explanations. This is a great way to make complex concepts more engaging by allowing students to explore the content at their own pace.
For example, Aalto University uses 360-degree virtual site visits for the School of Arts, Design, and Architecture workshops, where students can click on different elements to learn about various tools and processes. You can easily create ThingLink content using its drag-and-drop interface, making it an accessible tool for any educator.
Also, some other specialised learning environments use ThingLink to introduce the possibilities. is one example.
3.2 360 Virtual site visit
If you want to take experiential learning to the next level, you can create 360° VR videos that allow students to explore an environment as if they were physically present.
For example, a virtual wind farm tour lets students examine different structures, components, and systems in a way that would be difficult to do in person. These videos require special 360° cameras and some post-production editing, but Marsio’s XR Studio provides all the necessary tools and expertise to get started.
4. Podcasts + audio content
4.1 Podcast (in the Podcast Studio)
You can record high-quality podcasts using Aalto’s Podcast Studio, which provides professional microphones, soundproofing, and easy recording software.
Podcasts are great for long-form discussions, expert interviews, or course overviews. They allow students to listen on the go, making learning more accessible. Once recorded, you can upload the audio to MyCourses or other platforms for easy access.
4.1 Podcast (in the authentic environment)
If you want to record outside the studio, you can create on-location podcasts that capture real-world sounds and context. This is ideal for fieldwork discussions, research-based storytelling, or immersive learning experiences.
For example, an architecture podcast recorded at a construction site can bring real-world learning to students in a way that traditional lectures cannot. With a portable microphone and basic editing, you can create engaging audio content from almost anywhere.
Educational media services
Video and media services for teachers
Support for all video and media-related pursuits, from planning to production.
Panopto media service
Panopto is a versatile video platform for recording, editing, streaming, and sharing lectures and presentations.
