VLC media player is a versatile and widely used multimedia player ideal for higher education. The VideoLAN software originated in 1996 as a French student project at Ecole Centrale Paris, trying to stream videos across the campus. Known for its ability to play virtually any media format, VLC supports a wide range of files like MP4, AVI, and MP3 without compatibility issues, making it a reliable tool for educators. Its features, such as adjustable playback speed and subtitle support, enhance accessibility and personalised learning.
VLC’s streaming capability allows educators to share lectures in real-time, crucial for remote and hybrid learning. Screen recording features help professors create reusable learning materials, and students can record presentations. Cross-platform compatibility across Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS ensures broad accessibility. As an open-source, ad-free platform, VLC prioritizes privacy and security, making it a trusted tool in education. Its customisation options, including playlists and audio filters, further enrich the learning experience. VLC’s flexibility makes it indispensable for modern educational environments. Current developments are adding instant transcription and translation in subtitles for videos using open source AI models that run locally on the user’s device, eliminating the need for being online.