TP#17 - I'm Cranky & Unstoppable, More than Words, & A Little Marie Kondo Action
IN THIS ISSUE: Something cranky this way comes, I'm down right Unstoppable, the lowdown on captions, Repeating HERstory, and some digital decluttering.
studio news
Something Cranky This Way Comes!
For the last several months, my friend and fellow surface designer, Carrie Cantwell, and I have been working on something new for 2025. Here’s a little teaser for you!
Want more? You can follow the show on all the major channels:
I’ve been working on a new book with Jill Miller, the headmistress of The Finishing School for Modern Women. It's called Unstoppable: A Guide to Reclaim Power and Create Your Own Path. While we’re putting the finishing touches on the book, we’re releasing some of my hand-drawn illustrations in advance. Our new product line, UnStoppableGoodsCo, is now available on Etsy.
The centerpiece of our Unstoppable Goods Co is the 2025 wall calendar featuring my hand-drawn illustrations inspired by powerful quotes from our upcoming book.
The illustrated quotes are also available on t-shirts, mugs, giclee fine art prints, notebooks, and greeting cards. Order soon to get them in time for Christmas!
Also, this is the last newsletter of 2024!!! Can you believe a whole year has passed?! I'm taking a little break to return refreshed and ready to rock in 2025. The next issue of The Perch will arrive in your inbox in February 2025. 😉
L.E.A.R.N.
Words on Screen = Knowledge Retained
Captions are more than just a tool for accessibility; they are a vital component of effective online learning that benefits all learners, not just those with hearing impairments. In a world where digital content continues to dominate, integrating captions into your video content is no longer optional—it's essential. Let’s explore why captions matter, how they improve user experience, and some actionable tips for incorporating them seamlessly.
The Importance of Captions
Accessibility is the cornerstone of inclusive design. Captions ensure that learners with hearing impairments can fully engage with video content, breaking down barriers to education. However, the reach of captions extends far beyond accessibility. They provide a multi-sensory learning experience by visually reinforcing audio information and enhancing comprehension and retention for all learners.
Studies show captions improve focus and learning outcomes, especially for individuals studying in noisy environments or for whom English is not their first language. Additionally, captions cater to different learning styles—auditory learners gain from hearing the content, while visual learners benefit from reading along.
How Captions Enhance the Learning Experience
Captions aren’t just for learners with disabilities; they elevate the user experience universally. Here’s how:
Improved Retention: Captions help learners retain information by providing both auditory and visual cues. This dual encoding strengthens memory and understanding.
Flexibility in Learning Environments: Learners can engage with videos without needing headphones, making it easier to study in public spaces like libraries or coffee shops.
Language Support: Non-native speakers benefit immensely from captions, as they can associate spoken words with written text, aiding language acquisition.
Searchability: Captioned videos are easier to navigate. Learners can quickly find key points using text-based search features, saving time and enhancing productivity.
Tips for Adding Captions to Videos
Now that we’ve covered why captions are crucial, let’s look at some actionable strategies to add them effectively to your videos:
Leverage Built-in Tools: Platforms like YouTube and Vimeo offer automated captioning. While these tools provide a good starting point, always review and edit for accuracy.
Use Captioning Software: Tools like Rev, Otter.ai, or Descript allow you to create and sync captions easily. They also provide editing features for fine-tuning the text.
Maintain Visual Clarity: Ensure captions are legible by using a readable font, contrasting text colors, and positioning captions where they don’t obstruct visuals.
Align with Accessibility Standards: Follow guidelines such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) to ensure your captions meet industry standards.
Proofread: Accurate captions enhance credibility. Poorly done captions can distract learners and lead to misunderstandings.
Captions Are Non-Negotiable
Incorporating captions into your online learning videos is no longer just a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity. Captions enhance accessibility, improve learning outcomes, and elevate the overall user experience. Taking small, thoughtful steps ensures your content is engaging, inclusive, and impactful.
TAKE ACTION: Explore the tips above and choose your tools for adding captions to your videos. Make a plan to retrofit existing videos.
Sources:
Mayer, R. E. (2009). Multimedia Learning. Cambridge University Press.
Burgess, M. (2021). "The Benefits of Captions in Learning." EdTech Magazine.
My latest pattern is now available for sale on Spoonflower. Balanced Echoes is a modern, geometric design with bold black shapes on lavender squares and textured cream stripes, creating a harmonious pattern. Balanced Echoes coordinates with the Sherwin Williams Color Capsule 2025:
Balanced Echoes by Owl Medicine Design
FREE STUFF
Digital DeClutter Checklist - If, like me, you amass tons of digital files, bookmarks, notes, and other stuff cluttering your digital life, I’ve got something for you. Here is the checklist I created for myself to make a little Marie Kondo magic happen in my digital spaces. Download it for free!
Disfigured: On Fairy Tales, Disability, and Making Space by Amanda Leduc. As an artist with invisible disabilities, I found this book to be a fascinating take on disability through the fairy tale lens. If you’ve ever read a fairy tale, give this a read.
FEATURED BLOG ARTICLE
Repeating HERstory: Mary Delany (1700-1788)
Mary Delany proved that creativity knows no age. In her 70s, inspired by her keen interest in botany and a desire to preserve the beauty of nature, she developed her iconic “paper mosaicks.”
Option 1: Send this to a fellow creative. Setting your students up for success is simple with the right information. If you know someone seeking to add course creation to their portfolio, send this their way!
Option 2. Send me a sentence or two about what you enjoyed! I honestly want to hear from you. I don't want to type into the ether. Connect with me. That's more fun!
Thank you so much for reading! I spend a lot of time trying to make this newsletter worth its place in your inbox. I hope that comes through!
I’m passionate about helping online course creators gain repeat students by setting their learners up for success. Sign up to join your fellow teachers in receiving The Perch monthly.
