Why Should You Add Training Videos In eLearning Courses?
In this digital era that we all live in, people's attention spans have decreased significantly, and learners are searching for immersive learning opportunities. Incorporating training videos into your eLearning course isn't just a trend but a proven method that engages viewers and helps them retain more information. Videos can capture viewers' attention 2.6 times more than traditional content and facilitate content comprehension. Also, when professionals view practical demonstrations of theoretical material, they are more likely to apply this newfound knowledge to their work. If you are interested in leveraging training videos in eLearning courses, read on to discover 7 types of training videos you are most likely to find effective.
7 Types Of Training Videos
1. Talking Head Videos
Depending on your budget, you may not be able to afford to go all out on animations and gamification. Therefore, the simplest video you can make is a talking head or a video of a person talking in front of a camera. All you need is a good camera, a microphone, and decent lighting. While this type of video is very familiar and relies on the human element, it can also get boring. It is not very dynamic, and you must find a person who can keep the audience engaged from start to finish. If you decide to go through with talking head videos, you may need to add a few slides that correspond to the material the lecturer is mentioning and even a few simple graphics.
2. Whiteboard Animations
In a whiteboard animation, we typically see a white background where a hand is seemingly drawing images and texts while a narrator explains the information in detail. This method can be particularly beneficial for schools and for training videos in eLearning courses. They heavily rely on good narration and storytelling and create a cozier and simpler approach to learning complex matters. If your budget allows it, you may implement animations in your video. With the help of colorful characters and immersive environments, learners can grasp difficult concepts and get a more realistic sense of various matters. For example, a good-quality animation video can show young pupils how big the universe is compared to humans.
3. Interactive Videos
Interactivity can play a crucial role in how learners comprehend complex subjects and engage with the content. Instead of simply filming a tutor or creating an animated video, implement interactive elements, too. For example, you can add clickable content that offers additional information to learners. Or you can add quizzes after each sequence to ensure participants have gathered the necessary knowledge. What if these quizzes and tests include branching scenarios so people can see how each decision creates a different chain reaction? Additionally, you can add drag-and-drop functions so learners can apply their theoretical knowledge to real-life cases. As a result, professionals participate actively, increase their retention, and receive timely feedback.
4. Slide Presentation Videos
This is one of the easiest training videos for your eLearning course since it doesn't require anyone to show their face on camera. Many YouTube channels use this method to create content by piecing together a sequence of other videos and photos accompanied by voice-over narration. You don't need to purchase expensive software but rather use free tools provided online or that are already installed on your computer. When creating these presentations, remember to customize the themes, colors, and fonts to align with your company's style. You must integrate your distinct identity into your digital material so everyone can recognize your brand.
5. Webinars
Live content is another engaging way to communicate knowledge and help learners interact with other participants and ask questions. Invite lecturers or experts in your field and ask them to prepare a presentation featuring videos, images, and slides. At the end of the lecture, attendees are able to spark conversation with speakers and other participants. You can also record webinars and make them available on-demand to future learners or those who can't attend the live events. Even those who were in attendance may benefit from rewatching the content and paying extra attention to points they missed.
6. Interview Videos
Training videos in eLearning courses can also come in the form of recorded or live interviews. Businesses can organize events where one lecturer or expert professional is being interviewed by someone else. This event can be held live in an auditorium where the entire company attends and is able to ask their questions at the end of the discussion. Alternatively, it can be live-streamed, and everyone can join from remote branches or the comfort of their home. If you choose the latter, you must offer participants the choice to send their questions to the host so they can transfer them to the lecturer.
7. Screencasts
When it comes to demonstrating a software operational system and functions, you can utilize screencasts to offer professionals a step-by-step guide that features both visual and vocal elements. First, you need to create a detailed outline and script of your focal points to ensure clear and effective narration. Opt for high-quality screen recording and screen sharing software so that your video is not glitchy or hard to understand. Make your screencast as simple and concise as possible by removing unnecessary icons from your desktop and turning off notifications that may distract participants. You may highlight and underline important parts to draw people's attention to what's crucial.
Tips For Successful Training Videos In eLearning Courses
To add training videos to your eLearning course, you must ensure that they are compatible with different platforms and devices. Also, minimize their size to prevent long loading times and frustration among users. Before you start recording yourself, you must have a clear outline of your talking points to avoid awkward pauses and silence. Additionally, you should choose high-quality equipment, including your camera, external microphone, and editing software. Try to limit the video length to a maximum of 15 minutes and add as many interactive and animated features as you can afford. If you are using a narrator, it's a great idea to occasionally show their faces so people know who is talking to them and build a connection. Lastly, don't assume that everyone can listen to your material. Instead, add subtitles so that everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Conclusion
Creating videos may seem effortless, but in reality, it can be challenging to develop engaging and compelling material. Organizations must first do thorough research on the material they want to include and the best ways to do that. Check which people are your target audience, what their needs and preferences are, and how you can satisfy them. Not all types of videos can benefit your cause, so think carefully about the style, software, and material you want to use.
