More and more people are turning to the internet to distribute their thoughts on video, slideshows and presentations. Much of what is presented features visual elements such as diagrams, photographs, artwork, or PowerPoint slides that expand on the concepts being discussed in an incorporated audio track and enable the presenter to add more depth to the subject matter.
Another element that is used in video is what is known as the talking head, which quite simply is someone talking to camera. A survey of students of my uni’s lecture capture system revealed that learners have a preference for the talking head – despite the fact it doesn’t seem to add any additional depth to the subject matter.
So my question is, what is about a talking head that makes a video engaging? Or does it?
Well i agree with your results – the talking head is much more engaging. If it’s a podcast I tend to be busy in other windows – something to look at. But with talking heads (like this one) there’s someone looking at me (you know what I mean), so I look back – it would be rude not to! It just feels more like close-up face to face, and we all know thats the most engaging form of interaction.
Hi Katie,
I know what you mean. Even though it’s pre-recorded, there is still the feeling of having a conversation with the person who is presenting to camera.
What we’ve started to do with the support videos we do in my department (we use ScreenFlow) is begin with a short head-shot to camera and end with one as well. Our theory is that it frames the discussion and makes it more personable. I’m not sure if that’s true or not; but that’s the idea.
Cheers,
Mike