EducationFilm and photography

Microscope Training Video

The Earth Sciences Department at the University of Oxford needed to transform extensive training content into a concise, impactful video. Our goal was to create clear visuals that taught students to use the microscopes properly and cut breakages.

12 to 2Microscope breakages a term
Repeat work secured
The brief

Simplifying Extensive Training into a Concise, Impactful Video

The department’s complex training materials needed to be condensed into an engaging and easily digestible format without losing essential information.

01

Condensing Training

Compressing a 30-minute training into a 5-minute video required careful selection of content. It was important to ensure that the essential information was conveyed clearly and concisely.

02

COVID-19 Restrictions

Navigating health and safety protocols limited our access and required strict adherence. This made scheduling and conducting the shoot more challenging.

03

Limited Time

Time constraints required efficient use of available resources. We had to maximise the productivity of the limited time we had on-site.

Our solution

Careful Pre-Production and Clear Visuals for Effective Training

We conducted thorough pre-production planning and created a clear, visually appealing video that covered all necessary training points in a concise manner.

1

Pre-Production Planning

Extensive planning and consultation with lab technicians to create an effective training outline. This preparation was crucial for ensuring that all necessary information was included in the video.

2

Clear Visuals

The video featured clear visuals, concise narration, and educational graphics. These elements made the training material easy to understand and follow.

3

Accessibility Features

Included subtitles and voiceovers for broader reach and ease of access. These features ensured that the training video was accessible to all students.

The results

From 12 Breakages a Term to 2

Before the training film, the department was averaging 12 microscope breakages a term. The term after it, 2.

12 to 2

Breakages a Term

Microscope breakages fell from an average of 12 a term to 2 the term after the film went into use, with the repair bill falling with them.

Used Beyond the Department

The film is published on YouTube, where it has been picked up by students and labs outside Oxford using the same microscopes.

Client Satisfaction

The University requested additional work, leading to ongoing projects. The success of this project strengthened our relationship with the client and led to more opportunities.

Useful lessons for businesses

Effective Planning

Thorough planning and consultation are essential for creating effective educational materials. Proper preparation ensures that all necessary information is covered.

Clear Content

Conciseness and clarity are crucial for maximising the video’s impact. Clear and straightforward content enhances understanding and retention.

Accessibility

Accessibility features enhance the value and usability of training materials. Making content accessible to all users is important for maximising its effectiveness.

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