How Training Videos Enhance Knowledge Retention

by Daniel Raymond · September 19, 2024

Training videos are among the most important tools in the training process today. When used effectively, they make it easier for viewers to learn and retain information than other media forms. But why are training videos so effective, and how can a training video production company guarantee that the videos they produce will help the viewers retain the information presented?

Table of Contents

Introduction to Visual Learning

The ability to learn through images and videos is known as visual learning and is the most efficient way of learning. It draws on research showing that the human brain is more inclined to interpret information visually, constituting 90% of sensory input. It is a well-known adage that a picture is worth a thousand words, and it is a fact that our brains can process visual information 60,000 times faster than text. In a learning environment, videos use visual and auditory cues, which are more effective than using one. This is one of the reasons that the training videos have become very popular, especially among companies that require information to be passed on to their employees or customers. While using text-based content, a viewer is exposed to only words and texts. Still, with training videos, there is a combination of pictures and voice, which makes it easier to capture the attention of the viewer and also makes it easier to explain complex matters.

Consider how engaging it is to see a process demonstrated in a video rather than just reading about it. A training video production company can bring abstract ideas to life, making information more accessible and memorable through clear visual representations. This blend of imagery and sound allows learners to grasp and retain information faster and for longer periods.

The Science Behind Knowledge Retention

Knowledge retention, on the other hand, is the capacity to store and use information in the long run. The higher the level of learners’ involvement, the higher the retention level. This is where training videos are most effective. Research indicates that 95% of the information communicated through video is kept in the viewer’s memory as opposed to only 10% of the information in writing. This can be explained by the way our brain is structured to encode and decode information. The brain’s visual and auditory systems are different, which means that when information is presented in both visual and audio forms, the brain can create more connections. These connections help one to retrieve the information when required quickly.

Stories, diagrams, and real-life examples in training videos make the brain’s neurons light up and thus retain more information. For instance, a video on workplace safety divided into different sections, using illustrations and live action, is more effective in passing the message across and creating memories in the minds of employees than a safety manual full of text.

Key Benefits of Using Training Videos for Learning

There are several reasons why training videos outperform traditional methods in enhancing knowledge retention: There are several reasons why training videos outperform traditional methods in enhancing knowledge retention:

Increased Engagement: Training videos are more effective in engaging learners because they offer interactive and real-life content. In contrast to reading long texts that may tire people, videos hold the audience’s attention through images, songs, and stories.

Simplifying Complex Information: Videos can explain complex ideas in simple ways, making them easier to understand. Techniques such as animations, diagrams, or even live demonstrations can help explain some concepts that may be difficult to describe in words or writing.

Flexibility in Learning: Another benefit of video training is that it is easily accessible to employees. It also allows the learners to go through the material as many times as possible with the ability to stop, rewind, or go back to certain parts. This flexibility is very helpful because it helps one grasp and retain information as he or she moves through the course at his or her own pace.

Cost-Efficient Training: Training videos are a cheap way for companies to continuously educate their employees. Rather than conducting seminars physically and repeatedly, videos can be used several times in different locations or among different groups without having to spend extra money.

Further, videos are versatile. They can be applied in the workplace to train employees or in the market to train customers on new products. For instance, a training video production company can create a video that not only teaches the audience but also inspires them to work harder and be more effective and efficient in their work, which in turn increases the customers’ satisfaction.

Best Practices for Creating Effective Training Videos

Just because you have a presenter does not mean you have a training video. To make training videos truly impactful, certain best practices must be followed: To make training videos truly impactful, certain best practices must be followed:

Define Clear Objectives: For every video, it is crucial to set at least one goal—it can be training people in new skills or reminding people about the rules. First, it is necessary to set the goals and objectives of the training process that should be reached during the production.

Keep It Simple and Concise: Learners are not infinitely attentive. Dividing content into several parts, each devoted to a particular topic, helps maintain the user’s interest and does not overload him with information.

Use Visuals to Reinforce Information: Animations, infographics, and real-life examples help the learners understand the concepts taught more practically and efficiently. For instance, a process that may be hard to put into words can be easily grasped by watching an animation.

Interactive Elements Enhance Engagement: Quizzes or interactive parts help the learners be more involved in the learning process rather than just watching. This enhances retention since the students are required to use what they have learned in the same session.

End with a Strong Summary: At the end of each video, it is recommended to return to the main topic and the main points of the discussion. This helps the learning objectives and makes it easier for the viewers to remember what they saw. A good summary reiterates the information presented to the audience and explains why they should care and how they can apply it.

Thus, a training video production company can make the video’s content not only informative but also memorable and engaging for the audience.

Conclusion

Videos are not just a tool used in training but are a very effective way of transferring knowledge and keeping the learners interested. By incorporating visual and auditory elements, they address the multitudes of learners, thus facilitating easy learning and retention of information. We have also examined how effective training video production companies develop compelling content through clear goals, interactivity, and well-organized storytelling.

The result? The learners can comprehend, internalize, and implement what they have learned. In the future, it will be crucial for organizations to focus on the quality of training videos as they will become one of the most effective tools for enhancing employees’ knowledge, flexibility, and engagement.