Did you think using video in learning and development was new? Think again!
When you hear things like the ‘Netflix of learning‘ and ‘TikTok Academy‘ you might think video is a relatively new tool. However, it might surprise you to know, video has been used in learning for over 100 years. In fact, the earliest recorded use of video learning dates back to 1910.
Early days
In the early days, educational content would have been shared on film which was expensive to create and difficult to distribute to other educators. Sound came along in the 1920’s, this enhanced engagement and added another way to present and absorb information.
Due to the costs involved, video would have been rare in educational settings. The popularity grew and educational video became more accessible when motion pictures moved away from film to videotape.
Evolution
The introduction of videotape in the 1960s allowed educators to record television broadcasts and rewatch them at their convenience. The launch of DVDs in the 1990’s allowed the audience to jump to specific sections without having too rewind or fast forward, it was also easier to rewatch parts of the video when required. In 2005, YouTube revolutionised the landscape, beginning the online streaming era. This shift made it easier than ever before to create, share, and access educational video. According to Nielsen Online (2009), during 2003 to 2009 the amount of time spent viewing video online grew 1,905%.
We can’t argue with those figures, video is here to stay and people clearly like to digest information this way.
Benefits of video learning
While technology continues to evolves, the instructional strategies that were recommended in 1920’s and 1940’s still apply today. Video enhances learning when it’s used to:
- Demonstrate a process
- Introduce a new topic
- Illustrate an historical sequence or event
- Speed up or slow down time
- Visit dangerous or remote locations
- Hear insights from an expert in a particular field
The future
From the early days of film to today’s mobile-first world, video remains a powerful tool for learning and development. Its never been easier to create educational content, Embracing smartphone videography allows you to create engaging, cost-effective content tailored for your audience.
With high-quality cameras in nearly every pocket, anyone can create video. Explore our Smartphone Video Training to learn how you can create great video with your smartphone.
Information sourced from From Silent Film to YouTubeTM : Tracing the Historical Roots of Motion Picture Technologies in Education.
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