ActivePresenter is a software tool that combines the features of a screen recorder, a video editor, and an eLearning authoring program. It has a nice interface, which in many respects looks similar to that of Microsoft PowerPoint. It supports starting various types of basic projects. In this respect, it allows you to capture video and/or audio, record a software simulation and create a responsive project. Fortunately, there are various templates and examples you can start from. Not only that, you can even import an existing PowerPoint presentation.
When you capture video from the screen, it is possible to use one of the four recording modes. In addition, you can adjust various parameters, like screen resolution and audio input, to meet your preferences and needs. Moreover, you can set the program to capture cursor movements and make annotations. One of this product’s most outstanding advantages is that supports recording from both the screen and a webcam simultaneously.
ActivePresenter’s video editing features are based on creating slides to which you can add several types of objects. There is even a timeline for each slide that helps you arrange these objects. Likewise, you are allowed to perform basic editing operations, such as cutting, copying, splitting, cropping and merging. Good news is that it also comes with other advanced features, including the possibility to insert a picture in another as well as apply multiple effects to video and audio material. Fortunately, there is no need to arrange the slides in a linear sequence as you can create branching presentations as well.
In terms of eLearning material authoring, ActivePresenter is quite complete as well. The program supports inserting annotations, various types of interactive objects and quizzes. By the way, it is great that this version comes with more questions types than its predecessor. Luckily, although creating this type of material logically entails certain difficulty, the developers have made a great effort to flatten the learning curve. The resulting material can be uploaded to a learning management system thanks to its support of SCORM and API.
All in all, ActivePresenter may not look as sophisticated as the leading products in this area. Just to mention an example: Chroma key is not supported. However, it compensates that with its extreme usability as well as a more affordable price. In fact, the product has a free version that works without time limits but leaves a watermark on your projects, which you can avoid by purchasing either the standard or the professional edition.
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