Course Media Script Writing Guide

Framework

Utilize this framework as a set of guiding principles to enhance the effectiveness of your script.

Incorporate Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool for crafting engaging scripts that captivate audiences by presenting information in a relatable and memorable way. A clear narrative structure—with a strong hook, defined purpose, and meaningful conclusion—sustains interest and fosters connection. By incorporating storytelling elements, you can make complex, technical, or dry material more accessible and impactful.

Focus on Big Ideas

When crafting scripts, prioritize content that engages and connects with students over logistical details that can be found in supporting documents. Instead of listing tools or procedures, focus on big-picture ideas, learning goals, and the value students will gain. By emphasizing the purpose and relevance of the material, you create a compelling narrative that fosters student interest and encourages deeper engagement.

Structure

Use this simple five-part structure to craft a script that engages students by providing a clear narrative framework and effectively communicating the purpose and relevance of the material.

1. Hook	A captivating statement or question to immediately engage the student’s interest.
2. What	A brief explanation of the key focus or topic of the content.
3. How	A quick overview of the approach or process that will be followed.
4. Why	A concise statement of the value or importance of the content.
5. Closing	A short conclusion that reinforces the message and prompts further thought or action.

Length

Target these word counts when writing your scripts

Media	Word Count	Length
Course Introduction	225-300 words	~1 min, 30 sec – 2 min
Module Introduction	115-150 words	~45 sec – 1 min
SkillSource Skill Introduction	150-225 words	~1 min – 1 min, 30 sec
Immersive Learning Experience Introduction	150-225 words	~1 min – 1 min, 30 sec

Writing Tips

Reading your script out loud can help identify awkward phrasing and pacing issues. Using an AI chat assistant like ChatGPT can help the writing process by offering instant feedback, generating creative ideas, and refining content.

Writing Template & Submission Instructions

Click the button below to download a template for writing your script. Once your script is complete, please send it to Patrick Wirth and Nick Meyer.

media-script-template.docx

Examples

Browse the examples below to gain insight into the best practices and conventions outlined in this guide in action.

Course Introduction

A course introduction message serves as a compelling and engaging way to welcome students. It allows instructors to highlight the key topics and learning objectives while sparking excitement and anticipation for the educational journey ahead.

The following example was created for a fictional BIO110 course. It is 235 words or ~1 min, 34 sec.

Section	Direction	Example
Hook	The hook is the opening statement or question that grabs the viewer’s attention and piques their interest. It can be a surprising fact, a compelling statistic, or a thought-provoking question that sets the tone for the video.	Welcome to BIO110, an engaging introduction to the fascinating world of biology, the study of life in all its forms. Have you ever wondered how microscopic cells power the vast ecosystems of our planet, or how DNA shapes every living organism?
What	This section offers a clear and concise overview of the foundational concepts and key topics the course will cover.	In this course, you’ll explore these questions and more as we delve into the building blocks of life, genetics, evolution, and the intricate relationships between organisms and their environments.
How	This section of the script focuses on how students will apply their knowledge through authentic assessments, engaging with real-world projects and assignments. It highlights the practical skills students will develop, ensuring their readiness for challenges beyond the classroom.	This course will include hands-on projects where you’ll investigate real-world biological challenges, helping you apply what you learn to critical issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, or public health. The skills and knowledge gained in this course are essential to navigating and improving the world we live in.
Why	This section of the script focuses on explaining the importance of the course topics, helping students understand why these concepts matter and how they apply to real-world scenarios. Emphasizing the “why” encourages deeper student engagement and highlights the long-term value of the skills they are learning.	Biology is not just about studying life for its own sake; it’s about understanding the processes that shape our world and impact every aspect of our daily lives. From medical breakthroughs to environmental sustainability, biology influences everything from the food we eat to the air we breathe. By the end of this course, you’ll have a solid foundation in how living systems work and their importance to both society and the natural world.
Closing	The closing wraps up the video by reinforcing the key message or call to action. It encourages viewers to engage fully with the experience, often with a motivating or forward-looking statement.	As you embark on this journey through biology, remember that the knowledge you gain will empower you to make meaningful contributions to society and the environment. Let’s explore the wonders of life together and discover how you can make a difference in our world!

Module Introduction

A module introduction in an online course offers a brief overview of the module’s topic, key objectives, and what students will learn. It sets the stage for the content, showing how it fits into the course as a whole.

The following example was created for a fictional law course module. It is 31 words or ~1 min.

Section	Direction	Example
Hook	The hook is the opening statement or question that grabs the viewer’s attention and piques their interest. It can be a surprising fact, a compelling statistic, or a thought-provoking question that sets the tone for the video.	Unlocking the complexities of law is essential for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of our legal system.
What	This section offers a clear and concise overview of the foundational concepts and key topics the course will cover.	In this module, we will explore the critical distinctions between civil and criminal law, illuminating how the same behavior can lead to vastly different legal outcomes.
How	This section of the script focuses on how students will apply the knowledge acquired in the module through authentic assessments, engaging with real-world projects and assignments. It highlights the practical skills students will develop, ensuring their readiness for challenges beyond the classroom.	Through engaging examples and practical applications, you’ll learn how to identify and differentiate between civil and criminal cases, equipping you to apply legal principles in real-world scenarios with confidence.
Why	This section of the script focuses on explaining the importance of the module topics, helping students understand why these concepts matter and how they apply to real-world scenarios. Emphasizing the “why” encourages deeper student engagement and highlights the long-term value of the skills they are learning.	Understanding these differences is crucial for navigating legal situations effectively—whether pursuing damages in a civil case or facing criminal charges. We’ll dive into the essential elements of tort law, such as duty, breach, cause, and damages, alongside the foundational components needed to establish criminal liability.
Closing	The closing wraps up the video by reinforcing the key message or call to action. It encourages viewers to engage fully with the experience, often with a motivating or forward-looking statement.	With this foundation in place, let’s continue exploring the intricacies of law together!

MBA/EMBA SkillSource Skill Introduction

This example was created for a following fictional SkillSource Skill. It is 185 words or ~1 min, 15 sec.

Decoding Financial Statements

This activity provides MBA students with a foundational understanding of financial statements through an interactive and analytical approach. Students will explore the three primary financial statements: the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. They will learn to identify the key components of each statement, analyze their significance, and apply various financial analysis techniques. Through practical examples, students will develop the ability to assess the financial health of a business and articulate insights based on their analyses.

IO 1: Identify and articulate key accounting concepts, theories, and frameworks essential for understanding business financial management.
IO 2: Apply foundational accounting terminology and principles to real-world scenarios to enhance comprehension and retention of material.
IO 3: Reflect on understanding of accounting practices through self-assessment questions, fostering independent learning and mastery of the subject matter.

Section	Direction	Example
Hook	The hook is the opening statement or question that grabs the viewer’s attention and piques their interest. It can be a surprising fact, a compelling statistic, or a thought-provoking question that sets the tone for the video.	Ever wondered what numbers really mean in business? How do you decode the financial language that companies use to tell their stories?
What	This section explains what the experience or activity is about. It provides a clear, concise overview of the topic or scenario, ensuring the viewer understands the core focus of the video or simulation.	In this activity, we will explore the three essentials of financial statements: the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement. You’ll gain a foundational understanding of these three primary statements, identifying key components and analyzing their significance for effective decision-making.
How	The “How” section describes the process or steps involved in the experience. It outlines how the viewer will engage with the activity, what tasks they will perform, and the methods they will use to achieve the goals.	You’ll engage with practical examples through interactive exercises, applying various financial analysis techniques. By working with real-world scenarios, you’ll develop skills in assessing a business’s financial health and articulating insights from your analyses.
Why	This part explains why the skill is important. It highlights the real-world relevance and the value of participating, particularly the skills or knowledge gained and their application in professional contexts.	In today’s competitive business landscape, decoding financial statements is crucial for effective management. These skills enhance your confidence in addressing complex financial situations, making you a valuable asset to any organization. Understanding financial statements allows you to identify trends, make strategic recommendations, and contribute to informed decision-making. Mastery of these concepts influences immediate business outcomes and lays a strong foundation for your career, empowering you to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in the dynamic business world.
Closing	The closing wraps up the video by reinforcing the key message or call to action. It encourages viewers to engage fully with the experience, often with a motivating or forward-looking statement.	Are you ready to unlock the financial secrets of business? Let’s get started!

MBA/EMBA Immersive Learning Experience Introduction

This example was created for an early version of an immersive learning experience. It is 205 words or 1 min, 35 sec.

Section	Direction	Example
Hook	The hook is the opening statement or question that grabs the viewer’s attention and piques their interest. It can be a surprising fact, a compelling statistic, or a thought-provoking question that sets the tone for the video.	Did you know that nearly 75% of companies face compliance challenges each year? Imagine being part of a team that uncovers a significant compliance violation that could cost millions and damage the company’s reputation overnight. With such high stakes, how prepared are you to tackle these challenges?
What	This section explains what the experience or activity is about. It provides a clear, concise overview of the topic or scenario, ensuring the viewer understands the core focus of the video or simulation.	In this immersive learning experience, you’ll step into the roles of compliance professionals dealing with a complex case involving a fictitious company facing serious compliance issues. Each participant will assume a specific role—whether as a compliance officer, auditor, legal advisor, or executive—encountering unique challenges and responsibilities.
How	The “How” section describes the process or steps involved in the experience. It outlines how the viewer will engage with the activity, what tasks they will perform, and the methods they will use to achieve the goals.	Throughout the simulation, you will conduct a thorough investigation into compliance violations, collaborating with your peers to analyze evidence and discuss findings. You’ll formulate corrective action plans and synthesize key documents, ultimately preparing a detailed compliance audit report for the company’s leadership.
Why	This part explains why the experience is important. It highlights the real-world relevance and the value of participating, particularly the skills or knowledge gained and their application in professional contexts.	This experience is crucial for understanding today’s compliance challenges. Engaging in this simulation equips you with practical insights and enhances your problem-solving skills. You’ll develop advanced analytical and reporting abilities essential for effective compliance management, empowering you to contribute meaningfully to organizational success.
Closing	The closing wraps up the video by reinforcing the key message or call to action. It encourages viewers to engage fully with the experience, often with a motivating or forward-looking statement.	Get ready to engage and collaborate as you embark on this transformative immersive learning experience! Your decisions will shape the future of your fictitious company.