Video Training for Learning & Solving Problems

Learning facilitated by information technologies and problem solving skill enhanced by digital tools, is gaining momentum since last decade. I have previously talked about MOOCs and distance learning systems for both academic and corporate training scenarios. Much of the emphasis has been on learning outcomes obtained in e-learning environment rather than traditional classroom settings. In this article, I would rather be specific and discuss some great findings I got out of my experience and latest research; the video learning and its role for learning and solving problems, specifically in corporate sector. This is basically in response to the demand by the corporate managers for reduction in time-to-competency in the knowledge oriented economy, fueled by globalization and intense competition[1]. Organizations and their managers find it mandatory to offer result oriented training to their employees and partners so as to ensure acquisition of new skills in a timely way.

E-learning has just taken a shape of promising substitute to the traditional classroom based learning, aiding society shifting to a vision of on-demand and lifelong learning and problem solving. I can say that it is the fastest moving trends and intends to give a configurable infrastructure that collaborates learning tools, materials, training and services into a single solution in order to develop and deliver educational or training content fast, effectively and also economically. Thousands of e-learning or online courses are not available. Not just can institutional material be made accessible on the internet but online interactive learning and discussions are also possible.

Video training is a rising, rich and a strong medium being used in e-learning, for educating, training & helping employees solving problems and making decisions[2]. Let me tell you that video training is specially emphasized at yourtrainingdge.com[3], since I believe in developing the tools that can provide a close interaction between a trainer and learners. Video has the most refined ability to present information in a consistent and interactive way. Previous research and studies have evaluated the impact of training videos on learning outcomes, specifically problem solving skills production[4]. However, the training video used in old studies was mainly either broadcasted via TV programs or saved in CD-ROMs. Such video possessed linear structure that produced inconsistent outcomes.

Latest advances in communication and multimedia technologies have led to powerful learning systems with the best training video elements. The emergence of interactive, digital and non-linear video training enables learners to interact with it. This enhances learner’s engagement and, thus improves problem solving skills. A key media trait of training video is random access to the video content[5]. It implies that users are able to select or play a particular segment with minimal search time. The idea is not new but passing through time, to be in new forms. I would say that the effect of video training on learning and problem solving is still underestimated and undervalued.

In spite of previous efforts, a number of aspects of training videos in learning and problem solving has not yet been well determined. A key problem with the use of training video has been insignificant interactivity. In most of the e-learning settings, learners are unable to directly jump to a specific part or segment of the video. Browsing non interactive training videos is harder and more time consuming than browsing textbook, since learners have to view and listen the video sequentially and therefore searching for a particular part remain a linear process.

Training Video for learning & problem solving specifically revolves around bringing the following elements for optimal results.

Learners’ Engagement

As mentioned before, good & interactive training video holds the power to engage learners like no other platform or medium, making it ideal tool for learning. Salman Khan realized this in 2004 soon after posting Mathematics tutorials on YouTube, leading him to abandoning a successful career as Hedge Fund Analyst and setting up Khan Academy having 100,000 watchers every day[6].

Consistency

Imagine yourself as a product manager of a technology company who is about to launch the hottest product in the market. One of the most difficult moments of the launch is to ensure that audience get the same message as designed, about the product. Indeed long training at point of purchase is not possible, nor training millions of potential users. Interactive training videos published worldwide giving access to the public is an ideal solution.

Variety

Training videos are a great and concrete part of corporate training strategies, where complex topics and sophisticated procedures can be delivered to a wide range of employees, located both locally and globally, in an easier, timely and economical manner.

In the end, I would still say that incorporating the video in training environments might not always be sufficient. There must be trainer’s control over access to the content and delivery of the segments in such a way that lead to better learning outcomes and enhanced learners’ satisfaction.

[1] H.W. Agius, M.C. Angelides, Developing knowledge-based intelligent multimedia tutoring systems using semantic content-based modeling, Artificial Intelligence Review 13(1), 1999, pp. 55–83.
[2] N.A. Baloian, J.A. Pino, H.U. Hoppe, A teaching/learning approach to CSCL, in: Proceedings of the 33rd Hawaii International Conference on Systems Sciences, 2000, pp. 447–456
[3] yourtrainingedge.com
[4] M. Alavi, D. Leidner, Technology-mediated learning: a call for greater depth and breadth of research, Information Systems Research 12(1), 2001, pp. 1–10
[5] M. Alavi, D. Leidner, Technology-mediated learning: a call for greater depth and breadth of research, Information Systems Research 12(1), 2001, pp. 1–10
[6] M. Alavi, D. Leidner, Technology-mediated learning: a call for greater depth and breadth of research, Information Systems Research 12(1), 2001, pp. 1–10

Copyright 2016 Bryant Nielson. All Rights Reserved.

Bryant Nielson – Managing Director of CapitalWave Inc.– Being a big believer in Technology Enabled Learning, Bryant seeks to create awareness, motivate adoption and engage organizations and people in the changing business of education. Bryant is a entrepreneur, trainer, and strategic training adviser for many organizations. Bryant’s business career has been based on his results-oriented style of empowering the individual.  Learn more about Bryant at LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bryantnielson