How to Make Instructional Videos: A Complete 10-Step Guide

Modern video content has revolutionised how we educate audiences. Gone are the days of monotonous lectures and static presentations. Today, dynamic instructional videos are at the forefront, offering interactive and engaging experiences that can significantly enhance learning.

In this guide, we'll walk you through a 10-step process to master the art of instructional video production. Whether crafting corporate tutorial videos or innovative educational modules, these steps ensure your content is top-notch and resonates effectively with your target audience.

1. Identify Your Audience and Learning Objectives

Before you roll the cameras, you must know who you’re teaching and what they need to learn. Understanding your audience ensures that every content you create is relevant and valuable.

Imagine producing a corporate tutorial video to onboard new employees versus a detailed tech training session for advanced users. The former might focus on company culture and basic procedures, while the latter dives deep into intricate technical workflows.

2. Choose Your Video Style

The choice of video style can make or break your instructional content. Here are a few styles to consider:

• Interactive Content: Engage users by integrating clickable elements within the video.
• Microlearning: Opt for short, digestible video segments perfect for on-the-go learning.
• Immersive Learning: Utilize virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) to create hands-on experiences.
• Live Streaming: Connect with your audience in real-time, perfect for Q&A sessions.
• Blended Learning: Combine video with traditional learning methods for enriched experiences.
• Mobile Learning: Tailor content for mobile devices to reach learners anywhere.
• Gamification: Make learning fun by incorporating game elements.

For instance, animation and simulations demonstrating a complex process can make it much more comprehensible which has been done in the video below by Vistagreen

3. Plan Your Content

A great video starts with meticulous planning. Here's how you can break down the content planning into manageable steps:

1. Define key topics and objectives.
2. Create an engaging script.
3. Develop a storyboard to visualise the flow.
4. Consider partnering with a how-to video agency to streamline the scripting and storyboarding process, ensuring your content is engaging and professionally crafted.

4. Leverage Interactive Content

Interactive content is a powerful tool that can significantly boost engagement. Incorporate quizzes, games, and simulations to make learning interactive and immersive.

Numerous tools and technologies are available to create these interactive elements. For example, imagine a corporate tutorial video with built-in quizzes to reinforce compliance training. This not only makes learning more engaging but also helps in better knowledge retention.

5. Embrace Microlearning

Microlearning is the future of on-the-go learning. Short, focused video lessons enable learners to grasp key concepts without overwhelming them.

When crafting microlearning content, ensure each module is concise, clear, and covers a single topic comprehensively. Think of microlearning modules for busy professionals - they appreciate getting valuable insights without investing too much time.

6. Utilise Immersive Learning Techniques

The emergence of augmented reality (AR) has opened up new possibilities for instructional videos. AR can create engaging, hands-on experiences that were previously unimaginable.

Consider using AR-based training for medical professionals. Surgeons, for instance, could use AR to practice complex procedures in a safe, controlled environment, drastically improving their skills and confidence.

7. Implement Live Streaming

Live streaming has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. It provides immediacy and a real-time connection with your audience.

Platforms like YouTube Live, Facebook Live, and Twitch are excellent for delivering live instructional content. Think about hosting live Q&A sessions to interact with students and answer their questions in real time, making the learning experience more dynamic and responsive.

8. Adopt Blended Learning Models

Blended learning combines the best of both worlds: traditional classroom methods and innovative video-based learning which has been done beautifully by Unite Students in the video below. This approach ensures maximum impact and retention.

Corporate onboarding programs can significantly benefit from blended learning. Combine video modules with in-person activities to provide an engaging onboarding experience.

9. Optimise for Mobile Learning

With the mobile-first generation, it's vital to design mobile-friendly videos. Optimise your videos to be compatible with various devices and ensure a seamless user experience.

Imagine creating training videos that are accessible on smartphones for field workers. These videos can provide just-in-time information, improving productivity and efficiency.

10. Gamify Your Learning Content

Gamification makes learning fun and effective. You can significantly boost engagement and motivation by incorporating game elements like points, badges, and leaderboards.

Think about educational games for children's learning programs. These games can make complex concepts more straightforward and engaging, ensuring better understanding and retention.

Are You Ready for Your Success Story?

Well-crafted instructional videos have the potential to transform the learning experience, making it more engaging, interactive, and effective. Are you ready to embark on your video production journey? Leverage these steps to create instructional videos that resonate with your audience and achieve your learning objectives.