Over the past decade, the use of video has increasingly become a great option for creating engaging learning activities for students in all types of courses. The use of videos are prevalent in blended courses, self-paced courses and in online in higher education. Many instructional videos are now available in the public domain that can be used in online courses. Teachers also have the option of creating their own videos to use in their course assignments. Some of the most common questions I hear from teachers involve how to create compelling video-based assignments that will enhance their students' learning experience. Here's how I look at it:
Over the years, I have created various different video assignments for students in my business, computer and mathematics courses. Instead of presenting topic-based ideas for using videos, I thought it best to give you general ideas for creating video assignments for your own courses regardless of the subject matter. As you look at the list, keep in mind that the assignments can be graded or ungraded.
Ideas for Video-Based Learning Assignments
3) Video "Provocateur"
1) Video as "Concept"
This learning assignment asks students to watch a video to understand a concept. Oftentimes the video is an example of the "concept in action" rather than just a statement of the definition of the concept. For example, a video on the concept of emotional intelligence in management might show a role play situation between a manager and his/her employee to show the concept in use.
This learning assignment asks students to watch a video to understand a concept. Oftentimes the video is an example of the "concept in action" rather than just a statement of the definition of the concept. For example, a video on the concept of emotional intelligence in management might show a role play situation between a manager and his/her employee to show the concept in use.
2) Video as "Real World Example"
This learning assignment asks students to watch a video of a real world scenario that illustrates the concept. Although this is similar to a video as a "concept", the key difference is that the example is a real world one. For instance, a business video illustrates global production by showing Apple's computer manufacturing facilities in China.
This learning assignment asks students to watch a video of a real world scenario that illustrates the concept. Although this is similar to a video as a "concept", the key difference is that the example is a real world one. For instance, a business video illustrates global production by showing Apple's computer manufacturing facilities in China.
This type of learning assignment asks students to watch a video that is meant to provoke thought on a topic. These assignments are great ice-breakers and topic introductions. For instance, I ask students to watch videos on identity theft and fraud and then ask students to suggest ways to prevent it.
4) Video as Supplement"
This learning assignment asks students to watch a video in order to reinforce a concept that is taught through other means in a module. For instance, after reading a chapter and viewing a presentation, students may view a video that further illustrates another aspect of the topic.
This learning assignment asks students to watch a video in order to reinforce a concept that is taught through other means in a module. For instance, after reading a chapter and viewing a presentation, students may view a video that further illustrates another aspect of the topic.
5) Video as "Tutorial"
"Video as tutorial" assignments are great to use when students are working through material all on their own and need a "how-to" or step by step guidance. I use this approach to assign students an assignment with instructions for using a video collection in order to complete the assignment. For instance, I give my computer students an assignment to create a PowerPoint presentation and then give them instructions for using a video collection at GCF Learn Free video library located at http://www.gcflearnfree.org/.
To share your ideas for types of video assignments, simply leave a comment.
Also, checkout another article related to creating engaging video assignments, HERE.
Next topic in this series:
Using Video (Pt. 2) | FREE Online Video Repositories for Higher Education
Using Video (Pt. 2) | FREE Online Video Repositories for Higher Education
