Entertainment vs. Instruction Videos

Contrary to what many may think, instructional videos DO stand a chance if they are created in an interesting and interactive way.  In today's society, it is difficult to keep up with the standards of our learners if we continue to teach using dated materials.

Educators who are open to learning the new ways of podcasting, vodcasting and video presentation are more likely to capture the attention of their students.   Puppeter, Jim Henderson, perhaps unknown to him, was a leader in this direction.  Using muppets and puppets to teach children in an interesting way led to the success of television shows like Sesame Street.  In this same way, educators who are able to make use of new technology through computers, smart boards,  web-based learning, and instructional videos are more likely to compete with entertainment videos.

There are many instructional videos available through youtube and teachertube, which are appropriate and interesting for learners.  However, teachers must take the initiative to seek them out and apply them to curriculum.

Bottom line, instructional videos can compete if they are created in interesting ways!