Instructional videos are a popular way for people to learn new skills, with many available on YouTube. However, viewers should be cautious and not attempt things beyond their abilities, and interactive classes may be more effective for difficult subjects.
There are many things that people want to learn how to do. They might want to take an exercise class, manage their finances, and learn a little first aid or more. Since shortly after the advent of the VCR, many companies large and small have responded to these needs by producing instructional videos on a variety of topics. Today, instructional video, which can be defined as any video designed to teach a particular thing, is more likely to be an instructional DVD or, increasingly, video available on sites like YouTube or downloaded files that can fit on a MP3 player or computer screen.
People can access various types of free instructional videos on YouTube. For example, if a mom or dad is having trouble teaching a youngster how to tie their shoes, there are several shoe tying videos that can be used to bring this concept home. Some even have slow motion demos and most only take a few minutes to watch. Many first aid concepts are also demonstrated on the web. People can learn how to clip a toe, heal a wound, and for the surgeon who needs a little refresher, there are med school demonstrations on sewing techniques or ways to insert a chest tube.
Most of these free instructional video demos have in common that they are short in length but can be watched multiple times if a concept is not captured on the first viewing. They also illustrate an important distinction. Not all of these videos are right for everyone, and some certainly shouldn’t be attempted without some basic knowledge. Imagine teaching a five-year-old to sew up wounds, for example.
Perhaps the idea of the instructional video being unique to some types of people is best illustrated with the number of videos that teach various exercise programs. Although many of them, such as demonstrations of yoga or Pilates moves, come with a warning to consult doctors before beginning the exercise, not all people adhere to these warnings. They may try to do too much or push too far, resulting in serious injury. Just because people can quickly get all the yoga poses demonstrated online doesn’t necessarily mean they should do all the yoga poses. Some people will be better suited to start with a long instructional video designed to work with beginners who may have physical limitations.
Another point that can be made about instructional video is that it is not interactive with the learner. People who watch them are free to make mistakes, assume the wrong thing or do something that is not being demonstrated. The nature of the teacher-led classes helps provide a remedial element that a video cannot provide. Those learning something really difficult might want to consider classes on a certain subject.
However, instructional video, in all its forms, is likely here to stay. This can empower people with knowledge on many different subjects, and there is a current trend on the Internet to provide video instead of text to teach many things. Any form of instruction should be expected to be treated with a grain of salt. People should ask experts questions before trying something difficult or follow video advice completely because the creators of these videos are not experts either.
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