Imagine this: you’ve dreamt up a stellar concept for your project, a gem that’s sure to shine. It’s your gold-standard solution – there’s just no substitute.
But there’s a snag – you’re not exactly versed in bringing your vision to life. You think that CSS3 animations or Canvas might be involved, but they’re a tad outside your wheelhouse at the moment.
You’re at a crossroads with a few paths to consider. Perhaps outsourcing is the answer? Yet, this might dent your budget or erode your profits – a sacrifice you’re not keen to make.
Then there’s the option to shelve your brainchild and go back to the drawing board. But that’s an absolute last resort because the idea is just spot-on!
Or there’s the self-reliant route: figuring it out on your own.
Many designers opt for self-education, which typically means embarking on an internet quest for someone’s how-to guide (spoiler: chances are it’s been done before).
The last time I went searching online, the wave of results was overwhelming, with a fair share not worth their salt – shockingly, some even on Google’s first page.
Then there are the half-decent resources that partially cover what you need to know, and on rare occasions, you’ll strike gold with comprehensive guidance.
Yet, more often than not, those alluring ‘how-to’ links lead to video tutorials. And here’s where we delve into why this format may just be the least effective method for many to learn.
The Downside of Video Tutorials
The rationale behind video tutorials makes sense initially: people grasp new skills better through demonstration. It’s a timeless approach reminiscent of the master-apprentice tradition.
But herein lies a glitch in the comparison. The master-apprentice dynamic is reciprocal; it’s about active engagement, questioning, and receiving feedback.
Time plays another crucial role. Apprentices would spend years honing their skills under tutelage before ascending to mastery themselves.
Video tutorials, however, don’t afford this luxury. The expectation is to watch once or twice and follow along – a recipe for frustration.
You might attempt to parallel video tutorials to classroom lectures. Yet, top-tier instructors don’t just lecture – they interact, prompting questions and pacing their lessons to match their class.
In contrast, video tutorials fall short on interaction and personalized pacing, with stopping and starting the video as the only modicum of control.
Why Video Tutorials Miss the Mark for Learners
Video tutorials often neglect the learner’s needs, operating at a tempo and style that suits the instructor instead.
Instructors glide through material in their own comfort zone, glossing over details that might stump students or dwelling on what many already know. So, we either impatiently skip through videos or play sections repeatedly, neither of which is effective.
And let’s not forget convenience, or the lack thereof. Sometimes you need to learn something in a setting where audio isn’t feasible, or you’re operating with limited battery life. Watching a video then feels not just like a time-drain but also a resource hog.
What’s Best Left Off Camera
Repeatedly, I’ve noticed that most subjects just aren’t tailor-made for video instruction. Complex tasks, such as financial planning or web design layout, can be muddling in video format and would benefit more from detailed screenshots and text.
For dry or complex topics, text is often more digestible; it can be quickly skimmed over. And for simple tasks that can be broken into a few steps, reading bullet points is far quicker than watching someone else’s process unfold on screen. After all, time is a precious commodity, one not to be squandered needlessly.
The Proliferation of Video Tutorials: Why So Many?
It boils down to a couple of factors. First, there’s the allure of the soapbox – people relish the chance to be heard, appealing to the semblance of a personal or classroom-like tutorial setting. Moreover, videos often bear an air of authority for many web users, offering a stroke to the creator’s ego.
Secondly, making a video feels easier than writing, particularly screencasts. It’s as simple as demonstrating and discussing – and on occasion, dialogue isn’t even required. Video production conjures up an entertainment factor that writing lacks for most.
Unfortunately, these reasons alone don’t justify prioritizing video tutorials without strong motivation.
Tips for Those Who Must Venture into Video Tutorials
If you’re set on curating a video tutorial, here’s how to make it more enjoyable.
- Select your subject wisely – it should be easier to grasp visually, yet not so intricate that it leaves viewers scrambling with their pause button.
- Very technical tutorials typically don’t translate well to video. Something that requires viewers to follow along step-by-step may be better served with a text-based guide.
- Offer a transcript for quick reference, and for those who absorb information more effectively through reading.
- Create engaging content. Nobody enjoys a drab presentation; avoid a monotonous delivery at all costs.
- Ensure high-quality recording. Poor audio and fuzzy visuals can ruin an otherwise exemplary tutorial. Invest in good software and hardware to do your topic justice.
- Eliminate fluff. Skip the preamble – your audience is tuned in because they’re interested. If necessary, include any explanations in your video’s description.
- Prepare a script and practice. A seamless delivery devoid of fumbles will resonate better with your audience. Embrace do-overs instead of brushing off errors.
Looking Ahead: The Evolution of Video Tutorials
Interactive video is the beacon on the horizon. As it becomes more prevalent, with interactive elements akin to music videos and short films, user control will significantly improve the video tutorial experience.
Features that echo a classroom setting, like discussion forums and enhanced annotation tools, will propel video tutorials into a more valuable educational resource.
Parting Thoughts
Just because you have the means to make a video tutorial doesn’t mean it’s the right choice. Reflect carefully on how your content will best resonate with your audience. In many instances, alternative methods will serve your purpose better.
And if video tutorial creation is a must for you, ensure it’s aptly suited for video engagement, rather than forcing a mismatch.
What’s your take on video tutorials? Are they your go-to, or do you prefer other learning formats for specific topics? Share your insights in the comments.
