Use of Media
Which training would you rather have?
The Captivate video below shows two different uses of media. Which example do you think incorporates media in the best way? Press the play button to start the video.
The above examples show the use of too-little media (simply reading bullets and giving instructions) and a good mix of media (giving instructions, showing screenshots, etc). When you are creating your online training, you want to incorporate a balanced mix of media.
Too little media can lose the interest of the learner. For example, have you ever attended that dreaded course where PowerPoint bullets were quickly read with little to no explanations? Do you remember what you were doing while the training was going on - doodling, reading email, sleeping, or doing other work? Simply reading bullets is not an effective way to teach an online course or even an in-person course. The goal of training is to draw the learner's mind in to your course, facilitate in their learning experience, and keep them engaged throughout.
The above section discussed too little media. On the other hand, be careful not to overuse media. Too much media can cause confusion, distraction, and cognitive overload. Don't use media just for the sake of using it. Media should enhance your content, not distract from it. Even if you have wonderful technical skills, you don't have to inundate the learner to "show all of them off at once." Sometimes simplicity is key. When it comes to media, ask yourself, "How will my media choices help or hinder my learner?"
The previous sections talked about too much and too little media. The next section will provide tips on how to incorporate a balanced mix of media into your online training course.
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