Video content plays a crucial role in enhancing the learning experience and keeping learners engaged in online courses. Whether you are experienced or new to creating video content, these guidelines will provide you with valuable insights and best practices to ensure that your videos are effective and impactful and foster meaningful learning experiences for your learners.
When people think of video-based content often their first thought is that of a film crew with all the bells and whistles however that is not the only type of video that can be created or utilised within an online course. Let's start by exploring the different types of videos for use in online learning.
Bespoke High-Quality Video
Hiring a film crew to create bespoke videos for online courses can be beneficial in various situations where the content requires a high production value or specialized expertise.
- Complex Demonstrations: When the course requires intricate visual demonstrations or simulations that need professional videography and editing to convey effectively.
- Filming Locations: Courses set in specific locations or environments that require on-site shooting and cinematography would benefit from a film crew's expertise.
- Real-Life Scenarios: For courses involving real-life scenarios or case studies, a film crew can capture authentic footage and interviews to enrich the learning experience.
- Branding and Marketing: Courses aimed at brand promotion or marketing initiatives may require high-quality video content to reflect the organization's image.
- Professional Presentations: Courses featuring subject matter experts or guest speakers may benefit from a film crew to ensure high-quality recordings and polished presentations.
Let's review an example of a bespoke high-quality video that has been commissioned by our partner the New Zealand Institute of Sport (NZIS) for use in their Certificate in Exercise (Personal Training) Level 4 program.
For this program, NZIS determined that these fitness demonstration videos were required because:
- Complex Demonstrations: Specific exercises needed to be demonstrated clearly.
- Filming Locations: These videos needed to be filmed in a gym environment.
- Real-Life Scenarios: The videos needed to capture exact industry expectations on how to correctly and safely utilise specific exercises.
- Branding and Marketing: The videos were deemed to provide cross-purpose utilisation and could be shown on social to increase interest in the course.
It is important to understand the pros and cons of hiring a professional film crew for bespoke video production.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High Production Value: A professional film crew can deliver high-quality videos with excellent cinematography, sound, and editing, enhancing the overall learning experience. | Cost Intensive: Hiring a film crew can be costly, involving expenses for equipment, personnel, location, and post-production. |
| Expertise and Specialization: Film crews possess expertise in videography, lighting, audio, and editing, ensuring that the videos are polished and visually appealing. | Time-Consuming: Video production can take time, especially for complex projects, leading to longer development timelines. |
| Authenticity and Realism: A film crew can capture real-life scenarios, interviews, and demonstrations, adding authenticity and realism to the course content. | Logistical Challenges: Coordinating schedules, locations, and crew members can be challenging, particularly for projects with multiple shoots or on-site filming. |
| Special Effects and Animation: A film crew with animation or visual effects expertise can create dynamic and visually impressive video elements. | Limited Flexibility: Once filming is completed, making changes to the content may require additional time and resources. |
| Brand Image Enhancement: High-quality videos contribute to a positive brand image for the organization or institution offering the course. | Instructor and SME Involvement: Instructors may need to work closely with the film crew to ensure content accuracy and alignment with learning objectives. Depending on the course's subject matter, finding suitable experts or presenters might be challenging. |
Bespoke DIY Video
Example
Licenced Video Content
Example
Open Education Resources (OERs)
Example
Video content can be a powerful and versatile tool in online learning, but its usage should be strategic and purposeful.
