Using videos in learning 

During the last decades several scientists observe that videos facilitate thinking and problem solving.

According to Galbraith, 2004 in some cases, video can be as good as an instructor in communicating facts or demonstrating procedures to assist in mastery learning where a student can view complex clinical or mechanical procedures as many times as they need to. Furthermore, the interactive features of modern web-based media players can be used to promote ‘active viewing’ approaches with students.

More recent research shows that there is strong evidence that digital video reporting can inspire and engage students when incorporated into student-centered learning activities through:

  • increased student motivation
  • enhanced learning experience
  • higher marks
  • development potential for deeper learning of the subject development potential for deeper learning of the subject development potential for deeper learning of the subject
  • development of learner autonomy
  • enhanced team working and communication skills
  • a source of evidence relating to skills for interviews
  • learning resources for future cohorts to use
  • opportunities for staff development

There 9 Key Benefits of Using Video in eLearning

  1. Videos help in keeping the learners engaged with the course; much better than simple page turners.
  2. Videos are very demonstration-friendly; explaining a complex concept becomes easier with the use of videos.
  3. It is seen that through videos learners are able to store information easily.
  4. Videos help in capturing quick attention.
  5. Videos are great for building a good rapport with the learners.
  6. Videos are a great tool for reinforcing the information which has been taught verbally.
  7. It has been seen that videos are great tools for triggering discussions.
  8. Videos help in improving the overall learning experience by inviting the learners to think and analyze.
  9. Simulations, used prominently in training courses on processes, can realize the full potential through videos.

5 Tips for effective use of videos in eLearning

  1. Keep them short.

Long videos tend to get boring and the learners can start losing interest in the content. Unless you are making the video interactive, keep them short and focused on one concept at a time. The information grasping becomes easy when the video is less than 5 minutes long.

  1. Keep long videos interactive.

In case you don’t have an option but to have longish videos, make them interactive. Ask learners for feedback, reinforce the concepts through quick summaries, or throw in some quizzes. You can also introduce branching scenarios and let the learners choose what they want to see next.

  1. Use transcript.

Don’t assume that everyone will have sound cards or headphones. Provide transcripts for the videos which can make it easy to follow those even for differently-abled learners.

  1. Pay attention to file sizes.

Slow loading videos can cause a lot of frustration to learners. Consider creating a separate version for playing on low bandwidths. Use good compressors to reduce the size of the videos.

  1. Use videos for scenarios and simulations.

Videos can be very well leveraged for creating immersive scenarios like “what to do” or “how to do” kind of situations. With the help of videos, it makes it easy to simulate a real-life situation.

And at the end if you are still not convinced how useful the videos can be in education, please watch this video of Salman Khan and the creation of famous Khan Academy.

https://www.ted.com/talks/salman_khan_let_s_use_video_to_reinvent_education