TELT are pleased to announce that the QMplus Media player was successfully upgraded to version 7 on August 5, 2024. Staff and students can now enjoy the enhanced player, which offers several new benefits. We will discuss some of these improvements below and highlight an error affecting a small number of videos that requires additional action.
- Improved access to transcripts and captions
- Refreshed video controls
- Screen recording now available in Express Capture
- New playlist functionality – create and embed a video playlist in your QMplus module page
We would like to extend special thanks to Ron Anywar and Yanna Nedelcheva in the Teaching and Learning Systems team in IT Services for their help with implementing the upgrade.
Improved access to transcripts and captions
The captions and transcripts have been enhanced for better user-friendliness. Captions are now clearer and easier to read especially when videos are embedded in QMplus module pages. A new dynamic transcript panel is available, allowing viewers to read along while watching the video. The text is highlighted in real-time, making it easier to follow. Additionally, a search option lets users find specific keywords or phrases within the transcript. The transcript segments are clickable, allowing users to navigate to different sections of interest easily.
Refreshed video controls
Users can now experience modern and intuitive video controls that make navigation and playback management easier than ever. The control bar has been streamlined with clearly labeled icons to prevent confusion, and a convenient mute/unmute button is prominently displayed for quick access. Additionally, the layout is responsive, adjusting seamlessly to various screen sizes and orientations.
Express Capture now offers screen recording
Express Capture allows you to make a video recording directly from your browser, eliminating the need to download the Kaltura Capture application. Previously, it only supported recording audio and webcam footage. A significant advancement following the upgrade is that it now allows users to record their screen as well, which is especially beneficial for students using Chromebooks who cannot install the software and need to make recordings for video assignments. It’s also useful for making quick recordings, e.g. to provide feedback, without having to fire up Kaltura Capture.
Kaltura Capture is also still available and provides richer recording functionality.
New Playlist functionality within QMplus Modules
A new feature soon to be released (not released on live QMplus at time of writing) allows you to create playlists within a QMplus Module Media gallery. You can now assemble a playlist for a course and embed it directly into the QMplus site, making it easily accessible for students.
Error with videos previously added using embed code (Action maybe required!)
Please note that there is an issue affecting some videos added via embed code. While not all videos are impacted, the problem occurs with videos that were embedded in QMplus, T4, WordPress, or other websites by copying and pasting the embed code from QMplus Media. Impacted videos will not play and instead display a black screen with a loading circle. Unfortunately, there is no bulk fix available and we do not have a list of all the recordings experiencing the issue, so each instance must be resolved manually. To fix the problem, please replace the existing embed codes with a fresh copy from QMplus Media, which will update the media player.
Any issues or questions?
If you experience any issues or have any further questions please feel free to raise a ticket by emailing IT Service Desk <servicedesk@qmul.ac.uk>
Thanks for reading
