In a world where visual content reigns supreme, training videos have emerged as a powerful tool for organizations and educators alike.
83% of people prefer watching videos to accessing instructional or informational content via text or audio.
With their ability to convey complex information in a clear, concise manner, training videos have become an integral part of learning and development strategies across various industries.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what video training is, why it’s essential, and how you can create impactful ones to enhance learning outcomes.
What is a training video?
An online training video, whether for employee training or customer training, is a video dedicated to educating viewers on a specific topic to teach a skill or knowledge.
A training video teaches individuals a new skill or makes them understand a specific topic.
It also facilitates employee training to educate customers about how to use a product or service.
History of training videos
We can trace back the evolution of training videos to the early days of film and television.
Initially used primarily in corporate settings for employee training, training videos have since expanded into diverse fields such as education, healthcare, and manufacturing.
From the days of VHS tapes to the digital era of online video platforms, training videos have continuously evolved to meet the changing needs of learners and trainers alike.
Understanding visual learning
Visual learning is a type of learning style in which students prefer to use images, graphics, colors, and maps to communicate ideas and thoughts. Visual learners must see information to learn it.
Visual learning, the process of absorbing information through visual stimuli, has long been recognized as a highly effective way of learning.
What does the research say about visual learning?
Research shows that visual learners retain information better when presented with visual assistance such as images, diagrams, and videos.
It has also been found that 65 percent of the general population are visual learners, meaning they need to see information to retain it.
Visuals add a component to communication that written and verbal methods do not: speed.
They learn by reading or seeing pictures.
Visual learners understand and remember things by sight. They can picture what they are learning in their heads and can learn best by using primarily visual methods.
Training videos leverage the power of visual learning to deliver engaging and memorable learning experiences that cater to a wide range of learning styles.
Here’s how you can create a training video
Creating a training video is a multifaceted process that involves careful planning, scripting, filming, editing, and distribution.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create an effective training video:
● Define your objectives
Determine the specific learning objectives and goals you want to achieve with the training video.
Identify the target audience and their existing knowledge levels to tailor the content accordingly.
● Develop a script
Create a detailed script outlining the key points, topics, and instructions to be covered in the video.
Use clear and concise language to ensure understanding, and consider incorporating storytelling elements to make the content engaging.
● Plan the visual elements
Design a storyboard or visual outline to plan the sequence of shots, transitions, and visual elements for each segment of the video.
Determine the types of visuals you’ll need, such as slides, graphics, animations, or demonstrations, to enhance comprehension and retention.
● Choose the right equipment
Select appropriate filming equipment, including cameras, microphones, lighting, and accessories, based on your budget and production requirements.
Ensure that the equipment is of high quality to capture clear audio and video footage.
● Set up the filming location
Choose a quiet and well-lit location for filming, free from distractions and background noise.
Arrange the filming space with props, visuals, and any necessary equipment to support the content.
● Record the video
Follow the script and storyboard closely while filming each segment of the training videos.
Maintain a steady camera angle and use smooth camera movements to capture clear and professional-looking footage.
Ensure that the presenter speaks clearly and confidently and that any demonstrations or visuals are visible on camera.
● Edit the footage
Transfer the recorded footage to a video editing software program for post-production editing.
Trim and arrange the video clips according to the script and storyboard, removing any errors or unnecessary content.
Add transitions, titles, captions, graphics, and other visual elements to enhance the video’s overall quality and appeal.
● Review and revise
Review the edited video to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency with the learning objectives.
Solicit feedback from stakeholders, subject matter experts, and potential learners to identify any areas for improvement or refinement.
Make necessary revisions based on feedback and re-edit the video as needed to achieve the desired results.
● Finalize and distribute
Once the training video is finalized, export it in the appropriate format and resolution for distribution.
Choose the most suitable distribution channels, such as online platforms, learning management systems (LMS), or internal networks, to reach your target audience.
Monitor the performance and effectiveness of the training video through analytics and feedback mechanisms, and make adjustments as necessary to optimize learning outcomes.
By following these steps and best practices, you can create a high-quality training video.
It effectively conveys your message, engages learners, and facilitates their learning and development journey.
Types of training videos
There are various types of training videos.
● Instructional videos
Step-by-step guides that demonstrate how to perform specific tasks or procedures.
● Demonstration videos
Showcasing the features, benefits, and use cases of products or services.
● Presenter-style training videos
It features a speaker on screen and incorporates information-sharing techniques to convey information.
● Explainer videos
Simplifying complex concepts or processes through animation, narration, or graphics.
● Tutorials
It is often filmed with specific instructions and mainly for hands-on video training to best serve the learners.
● On-site training videos
It is similar to the presenter-style video. It is used to show a specific location such as for virtual visits to factories or warehouses. It is also used to show behind-the-scenes work.
● Simulation videos
Simulating real-world scenarios to train learners for various situations or challenges.
● Motion graphics training video
It uses computer simulations or animations rather than a presenter.
It is best to use when the budget does not allow for real-life replication of a video project.
● Interactive videos
Engaging viewers through interactive elements such as quizzes, assessments, or clickable hotspots.
● Stock footage montage and text-based training videos
It is made from purchased materials like stock footage, music, and graphics.
Answering the “Why” for creating training videos
- Increased retention
- Better engagement
- Save resources and money
- It is a versatile medium
- Guaranteed flexibility
- Interactive training
- Video engagement is measurable
- Builds expertise and authority
- Improves productivity
Key components of effective training videos
Effective training videos should be engaging, informative, relevant, and concise, with clear learning objectives and interactive elements.
Tips for creating engaging training videos include creating a clear outline or storyboard, using visuals and a conversational tone, and incorporating interactive elements.
● Clear objectives
Define the learning objectives and desired outcomes of the training video to ensure alignment with learner needs and organizational goals.
● Engaging content
Use storytelling, humor, real-life examples, and relatable scenarios to capture and maintain learner interest.
● Visual appeal
Incorporate high-quality visuals, animations, graphics, and multimedia elements to enhance comprehension and retention.
● Concise delivery
Keep the content concise and focused, avoiding unnecessary complexity or information overload.
● Interactivity
Foster learner engagement and participation through interactive features, quizzes, polls, and assessments.
Best practices for creating training videos
Embrace the power of training videos today and unlock the full potential of your learning and development efforts.
● Pre-production planning
Outline the video script, storyboard, and visual elements to ensure a clear and organized approach to production.
● Invest in quality equipment
Use professional-grade cameras, microphones, and lighting equipment to ensure high-quality audiovisual production.
● Simplify complex concepts
Break down complex information into digestible chunks, using clear and straightforward language and visuals.
● Editing the video
Gather feedback from learners and stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and refine the training video accordingly.
● Ensure accessibility
Make your training videos accessible to all learners by providing closed captions, transcripts, and other accessibility features.
A few more practices for training video development include keeping it short, focusing on one thing at a time, adding captions and voice-over, carefully setting up your shooting environment, using simple graphics, and allowing access on multiple devices.
Conclusion
Training videos represent a dynamic and versatile tool for delivering engaging and effective learning experiences.
By leveraging the power of visual learning and following best practices for creation, organizations and educators can maximize the impact of their training initiatives and empower learners to achieve their learning objectives.
Whether used for employee training, customer education, or academic instruction, training videos offer a valuable opportunity to enhance learning outcomes and drive positive results.
