What Makes Video-Based Learning So Effective 

We recently re-visited an often-cited research publication, Instructional Effectiveness of Video Media. Written by Wetzel, C. D., Radtke, P. H., & Stern, H. W. in 1994, we looked at the findings with an eye toward today’s increased use of video-based learning. Our take? The research holds up. 

Why IS Video Effective as a Learning Medium? No Big Words, Please.  

Well, you came here for a 3-minute post, not an entire book. We’ll keep it to listing the top six takeaways the research revealed. 

1) Video Performed Better Than Text for Certain Types of Training 

Have you ever tried to explain how to put a piece of furniture together? Assemble the new bicycle for your child? The expression “a picture is worth 1000 words” really applies here. But years ago you had to have expensive video equipment to capture this. Now everyone can make a video from their phone.  

2) Video Doesn’t Have to Replace Text, It Can Add to It 

The research-y term is “dual-channel learning” but that just means that if you have text AND video, your comprehension improves. This is something we want from today’s LMS platforms, so our employees and customers get the most out of what we are trying to teach them. This also means your courses are more accessible, making learning available to all.  

3) Video Pace and How Much Learning Can Happen at Once 

This one practically saw the future. Remembering some of the software classes for offices back in the day, one might spend a week of 8-hour days trying to learning everything about Excel. Then back to the office and most of it was forgotten. We process information at different rates and can only handle so much at once. 

At uQualio, we talk about microlearning and making bite-sized videos. Maybe taking that one-hour seminar you recorded years ago demonstrating some important training processes. You can turn that into a series of much shorter videos that each focus on a key element. Your users will retain the training better. 

4) Interactive Learning Increases Success 

That yoga video isn’t going to make you any more fit if you just sit and watch it. But if you are also participating, you may find your “center” a lot faster.  

That seminar from item 3 above that you turned into a series of short video courses? Just add quizzes to each video to ensure your audience learns the items you think are most important. We have easy tools that help you create those quizzes in a flash.  

5) Make Your Content Real and Relevant 

Sure, YOU know your product inside-out. But your customers don’t. Think about your content from THEIR point of view and remember to show what they need. They will find your course more interesting as it relates to their needs. Don’t be too generic, let this be a positive experience for your learners.  

6) No Blockbuster Cinematic Experience Needed 

Okay, the research didn’t put it this way, but did emphasize that your video doesn’t have to be some expensive, high production value matter. It is more important to plan what you want the course to cover, and keep your messaging focused. We help you also with both analog and AI tools for quickly putting together your content.  

Video is Effective Because It Supports How We Naturally Learn 

Which is by seeing, hearing and doing. More of us are trying to reach global audiences. Add Dynamic AI Translation to your videos, and reach a broader audience. Harness the power of microlearning to start making your training more impactful.  

So now that you’ve learned why a video LMS is so effective, let’s get moving!