Many people want to learn how to do a variety of things. They might want to enroll in an exercise class, manage their finances, and learn basic first aid, among other things. Many large and small businesses have responded to these demands producing instructional videos on a variety of topics since the invention of the video tape player. Today’s instructional video, which can be defined as any video that is designed to teach a specific skill, is more likely to be an instructional DVD or, increasingly, video available on sites like YouTube® or downloaded files that can fit on an MP3 player or computer screen.
On YouTube®, people can find a variety of free instructional video types. For example, if a parent is having trouble teaching their child to tie their shoes, there are a variety of shoe-tying videos that can be used to reinforce the concept. Some even have slow motion demonstrations, and the majority of them are only a few minutes long. Many first-aid concepts are also demonstrated on the internet. People can learn how to tape a toe, bandage a wound, and there are medical school demonstrations of stitching techniques or how to insert a chest tube for the surgeon who needs a refresher.
The majority of these free instructional video demonstrations are short in length, but they can be watched multiple times if a concept is not grasped on the first viewing. They also highlight a crucial distinction. Not all of these videos are suitable for everyone, and some of them should not be attempted without some prior knowledge. Consider teaching a five-year-old how to stitch wounds, for example.
The number of videos that teach from various exercise programs best illustrates the idea of instructional videos being exclusive to certain types of people. Though many of these, such as yoga or Pilates demonstrations, come with a warning to consult a doctor before beginning exercise, not everyone heeds this advice. They may try to do too much or push themselves too hard, which can lead to serious injury. The fact that almost any yoga pose can be quickly demonstrated online does not mean that people should do every yoga pose. Some people will be better served beginning with a lengthy instructional video designed for beginners with physical limitations.
Another criticism of the instructional video is that it does not engage the learner in any way. People watching them are free to make mistakes, make incorrect assumptions, or do something that is not being demonstrated. The nature of classrooms with a teacher aids in the provision of a corrective element that a video cannot. Those who are learning something extremely difficult might want to consider taking a class on a specific topic instead.
Regardless, instructional videos, in all of their forms, are likely to be around for a long time. These can empower people with knowledge on many different subjects, and there’s a present trend on the Internet of providing video instead of text to teach many things. Any form of instruction should be taken with a grain of salt, it is hoped. People should ask questions of experts prior to trying out any difficult thing or completely following video advice because the creators of these videos are often not experts either.