In today’s world, video is everywhere. In fact, over 300 hours of video are uploaded to YouTube every minute (Donchev, 2018). You are likely already using video in your online course or are considering adding it. The good news is that creating video is easier than ever. Most laptops and phones have built-in cameras and microphones, and simple, accessible tools make recording and editing manageable.

What matters most is not just creating video, but using it intentionally. When you design videos with a clear purpose, you can strengthen learning, increase engagement, and motivate your students.

Below are five practical, high-impact ways you can use video in your online course.

Create a sense of presence

Online courses can feel isolating for both you and your students. Video helps you show up as a real, supportive instructor and builds connection with your students.

Examples

Record a short weekly wrap-up video. Highlight key takeaways and preview what is coming next.
Share a quick video after an exam. Walk through common mistakes and how to improve.
Give personalized video feedback on major assignments.
Create a welcome video that introduces who you are and what you care about.
Start each module with a 1–2 minute overview video that explains why the content matters.

Tip: Keep these videos short and conversational. Think of them as check-ins with your students.

Your expertise is one of the most valuable parts of your course. Video allows you to go beyond the textbook and show how you think. Video is a great opportunity for you to interpret, connect, and challenge ideas. This helps students see the value of learning from you, not just consuming content.

Examples

Record a short video where you compare two authors and explain where you agree or disagree.
Tell a brief story from your professional experience that connects to a key concept.
Use a simple analogy or metaphor to explain something complex.
Pair your video with an external resource such as a TED Talk, then explain how students should interpret it.

Tip: Focus on insight, not repetition. Avoid re-covering content students already have.

Demonstrate a process

Video is one of the best ways to teach a process. It allows students to see each step and hear how you think as you work. This is especially useful for problem solving, demonstrations, and technical skills.

Examples

Record yourself solving a complex problem while explaining each step out loud.
Use screen recording to walk through software, coding, or data analysis.
Demonstrate a lab procedure or physical process.
Curate a high-quality open educational resource video and add your own short explanation to guide students.

Tip: Don’t forget to consider accessibility! Say exactly what you are doing as you do it. For example, say “I am selecting the File menu in the top left corner,” instead of “click here.” This makes your video more usable for all learners.

Present an intellectual exchange

Learning deepens when students see ideas discussed, challenged, and debated. Video can bring these intellectual exchanges into your course. Luckily, you do not have to do this alone. Bringing in other voices adds variety and credibility to your course content.

Examples

Record a conversation with a colleague who has a different perspective on a topic.
Interview a guest speaker or industry professional.
Share two short videos with contrasting viewpoints and add your own commentary to guide comparison.
Host a recorded panel discussion on a key issue in your field.

Tip: Provide 2–3 guiding questions for students so they know what to listen for.

Connect content to the real world

Students are more motivated when they see how course concepts apply beyond the classroom. Video helps you make those connections visible. Real-world examples increase perceived relevance, which supports motivation and engagement for your students (Norman, Ambrose, Bridges, DiPietro, & Lovett, 2010).

Examples

Film a quick example of a concept in action. For example, show a real-life application of a scientific principle.
Record a short video in a real setting, such as a workplace or community, to introduce a topic.
Share a well-known real-world clip and explain how it connects to your course.
Create a short “why this matters” video at the start of a module.

Tip: Your video does not need to be polished. Authentic, relevant examples are often more powerful than highly produced ones.

You can use videos in a variety of ways in online courses. They can play a valuable role in helping your students achieve your learning goals while also accomplishing important secondary goals, such as enhancing motivation, building community, and establishing presence. Even if you aren’t an experienced speaker or tech pro, the wide availability of technology allows you to easily dive into video creation, and your unique voice and perspective will help your course stand apart among other online content.

References

Donchev, D. (2018, April 4). 37 mind blowing YouTube facts, figures and statistics – 2018. Retrieved from https://fortunelords.com/youtube-statistics/
Norman, M. K., Ambrose, S. A., Bridges, M. W., DiPietro, M., & Lovett, M. C. (2010). How learning works: Seven research-based principles for smart teaching. San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass.
Shea, P., & Bidjerano, T. (2009). Community of inquiry as a theoretical framework to foster “epistemic engagement” and “cognitive presence” in online education. Computers & Education, 52(3), 543–553.