Why Make an Instructor Introduction Video?

Your course introduction video is your first opportunity to connect with students and set the tone for the learning experience. It’s not just about reviewing the syllabus—it’s about helping students see the person behind the course. A warm, personal video can ease anxiety, humanize the online environment, and motivate students to engage. Share who you are, why you’re passionate about the subject, and what students can expect. Just 2–3 minutes of authentic connection can make a lasting impact and increase student confidence and trust right from the start.

To keep your introduction video relevant, it’s important to refresh it regularly—ideally each semester or at least once a year. A brief update to acknowledge the current term, mention new course features, or reflect changing student needs shows that you’re present and invested. Avoid dated references, time-stamped greetings, or references to last year’s content unless you plan to update the video. If you need help scripting, recording, or embedding your video, the Trulaske Instructional Technologist can support you every step of the way.

In online education, it’s easy for students to feel disconnected from their instructors. An instructor introduction video helps bridge that gap by putting a face, voice, and personality to your name. It’s a powerful way to establish connection, warmth, and presence right from the start.

Here’s why it matters:

Humanizes the learning experience
Students are more likely to engage when they feel like they know who you are.
Builds trust and connection
A warm, genuine introduction helps create a sense of approachability.
Establishes your presence early
Seeing and hearing from you creates a stronger instructor presence, which is especially important in online learning.
Creates a welcoming first impression
Students who feel welcomed are more confident and motivated to participate.

What Should You Say?

Keep your video short—1 to 2 minutes is perfect for an introduction. You don’t need to go into teaching philosophy or course details. Just let students get to know you as a person and a professional.

Here’s a simple outline:

1. Start with a warm greeting:
“Hi, I’m Dr. Sam Harper, and I teach in the Department of Management here at Trulaske.”
2. Share your background:
Mention your academic field, research interests, and any relevant industry experience.
3. Add a personal touch:
Include a fun fact, hobby, or something students might relate to.
4. Wrap up with enthusiasm:
Let them know you’re looking forward to the semester and to working with them.

Example

Where Should You Share It?

Once your video is recorded, there are several easy ways to share it with your students and make a strong first impression. You can upload it to Panopto and add captions for accessibility, embed it directly on your Canvas Instructor page or in your Welcome Module to create an inviting course entry point, or post it in your course announcements or welcome message to ensure every student sees it. Taking a few minutes to introduce yourself in this way helps build trust and connection from the very beginning.

Need tech support? Contact Angela Knoerr for help with recording, uploading, or embedding.