Video Abstract Guidelines

After a submission has been accepted for publication in STiLE, the production of a video abstract is required. The video abstract is intended to work in the same way as a text-based abstract, which, depending on the category to which the work has been submitted, will guide the reader/audience to understand the purpose of the published piece, its most pertinent additions to literature and/or its intended usage.

The following guidelines are constructed to aid contributors in their video abstract production.

1. Scholarship Video Abstracts (for Article, Reflection & Review Categories)

Video Abstract Length

Approximately 30 seconds (no more than one minute even for long pieces)

Video Formatting

MP4 file format
File size should not exceed 1GB
Recommended aspect ratio = 16:9
High Definition (HD) video of at least 1280x720 (1920x1080 preferred)

Video Content

STiLE would like contributors to deliver their abstract in video form. No text-based abstract is required. For the article category, the content of the video abstract should resemble a written abstract in conventional journals. For reviews and reflections, below is a suggestion for the content in a three-sentence format:

First sentence: What is already known and/or already exists on the topic/Why is this important?

Second sentence: What this scholarship submission adds to what we know/have/the discussion

Third sentence: Specific implication(s) and/or application(s) to teaching and learning

Finally: try and close the video in a way that encourages readers to move from the video abstract to your contribution.

Video Style & Appearance

There are 3 main options for the video appearance:

1	Basic PowerPoint Video	A slide show of 3 to 6 slides
2	Talking Head Video	Focus is on the contributor and may include captions Should include a virtual background with STiLE logo, which can be downloaded here.
3	Other	Other creative video made by the contributors themselves, which can be animation, diagrams, etc.

What are the advantages for each option?

All options feature multimodality
Option 1 is easy to make.
Option 2 allows viewers to ‘meet’ the contributors.
Option 3 promotes creativity.

If you have access to a Zoom account, we recommend Option 2. This is an easy way to record your video abstract by using a webcam and to embed the STiLE virtual background. For instructions on how to do this, visit the Zoom Support website.

Additional Notes

Make sure that the video aligns with the expectations for the category to which you are submitting.
The video does not require professional editing, fancy design or background music. The only requirement is clarity of speech against a quiet backdrop. English subtitles are also preferred in all videos.
Contributors are free to decide whether they want to show their faces in the video. If a contributor prefers not to appear on camera, they can simply show materials relevant to their work on screen.

Practical Suggestions

We suggest that you write out a script to work from instead of speaking in free form.
If you're using cue-cards or reading from a monitor, place them at eye level behind the camera so that you can read them whilst maintaining natural eye-contact with the viewer.
Use a tripod or ensure that the camera or recording device is placed on a flat surface to avoid shaking.
Make sure that the sound quality is clear and easy to understand. Avoid background noise and ensure that the volume is consistent throughout the video.
Ensure that the lighting is sufficient to clearly see all the elements in the video. Avoid harsh shadows and backlighting.
It is recommended that you have someone else review your submission for quality control before submitting it.
Practice beforehand and consider doing multiple takes to ensure that you are happy with the final product.

2. Plug & Play Video Abstracts (for Plug & Play Category Only)

Plug & Play submissions are expected to have a video abstract and an accompanying piece of text titled ‘navigation notes.’ The details of both are below.