Videos: A tool to close the skill gap

Almost always, there is a gap between the learner’s current situation and where they need to be in order to be successful.

As an instructional designer, I aim to identify what the gap is, and to create a learning experience that closes this gap.

Over the years, I’ve found that it’s dangerous to assume that the gap is in knowledge (that is, just assume
that the learner doesn’t have enough information), although that can be part of it. Sometimes, it could be that the learner
has the information and knows where to get it, but does not have enough practice. This is called the skill gap.

In this case, the learner needs tools that would help him/her practice that he/she knows. They need:

  • … to see how a skilled person does the task/job successfully (through, for example, videos).
  • … tools where they can practice and develop a skill (with quiz widgets, some kind of guided
    practice widgets, flashcard widgets.)

Also, thinking about where to plant opportunities to practice is as important as choosing which tool to use.