Making engaging online videos: What can higher education teachers learn from YouTubers?

Abstract

Videos are an indispensable part of most online courses and are a key device for teachers to develop a personal link with their learners. There are a number of technical principles which can guide teachers to make videos that will best enhance learning and engagement. However, not many teachers have expertise in creating videos and it is not always clear how students perceive the educational value of such videos. In this preliminary study, the authors, who are both English as a Foreign Language teachers at university in Japan, shared clips from popular YouTube language teachers with student participants in order to find out what features of the videos were most appealing. Results show a number of principles to follow especially concerning voice speed, clarity and friendliness. But above all teachers need to show an authenticity and passion about their subject.