Video-based learning materials can be really helpful in making online courses very effective. The truth is, there seems to be a huge preference for watching videos compared to reading text. In fact, a study revealed that almost 6 out of 10 executives will choose to watch a video even if the same content is in text-form. This is not really surprising since learning through videos is actually more entertaining than reading. Experts even say that our brains are more inclined to process visual information compared to those in text form.
This is only one of the reasons why video-based materials can be a real asset to online courses. If you want to be successful, you have to use it. Here are the reasons why it is effective.
Videos are easier to create and process.
You can easily create a video. You just have to point your mobile phone somewhere and shoot. There are also software programs that you can use to create a slideshow presentation of what you learned. Apart from the fact that you can easily create a video, the learners will also have an easier time absorbing it. You know how “a picture paints a thousand words”? You can bet that a video portrays a lot more than that. But what exactly does it mean? That means your brain will not require much effort to process information if it is handed to you in video form. This is good because it will not exhaust your brain and will make you more inclined to receive more information as compared to text-based learning.
Videos are more fun.
One thing that videos are is it is not boring. At least, compared to reading text, it is not. There is always a certain level of entertainment to be taken from it. Whether it is the images, the moving pictures or the audio element, videos will make things more interesting. A boring concept can become appealing when presented in video format.
Videos can be inspiring.
Another reason why videos are effective in online courses is that it can be inspiring. It is easier to humanize the content and involve emotions when both the visual and auditory senses are stimulated. When you read about something, its effect on you will depend on the words that you will read. Not only that, you will need your brain to translate these words into images – something that will help you relate to it better. But when videos are presented, the message if easily relatable because you do not have to imagine anymore. You can easily identify what you will see.
These are only some of the reasons why video-based materials are more effective when used in online courses. Of course, there is still that one challenge of implementing it correctly. Fortunately, there are a couple of tips that will make sure that you create the videos correctly.
First of all, you have to make sure that it shows a concrete experience that the learners can relate to. This is how you make the video inspiring. The video should also allow the learners to put themselves in the situation being shown – without restrictions. They should feel a certain level of familiarity with the skill or knowledge. That will give them the confidence to face any type of situation.