Using Videos as Learning Content

Using Videos as Learning Content

There are two factors to consider before adding video as an online learning content in LMS:

1. Size of the file

Since LMS is a web-based application, you should minimize size of any downloaded file to improve learner experience. A large video file is more likely to encounter resolution and buffering issues that affects the viewing experience. On the other hand, a small file size which maintains high quality and streams easily, may motivate more learners to view the video.

2. Video file format

There can be significant differences in size between file formats depending on the method of compression. Rapid movement and flashy material in the video can add to the file size. These files are difficult to compress without affecting the quality of the video. As you probably know, the last 3 or 4 letters on the end of a video file’s name indicate format or file container. 

How to Use a Video as Learning Content

There are a few methods used for delivering video in LMS:

Method 1: Using a Computer-based Training (CBT) Item

Method 2: Create a Lesson with Cells containing Video Content including YouTube, Vimeo, MP4, or Microsoft Stream.

Method 3: Using an Audio/Visual Training Item. 

Method 1 : Using a Computer-based Training (CBT) Item

Under the curriculum > training item tab, create a CBT type training item where the URL references the video file. The video file (MP4) can be uploaded to the Frontline server if the size is less than 380 MB. If it is larger than this, it must be stored on a file share, Youtube or Vimeo. 

When a CBT training item does not have a test attached, the completion record shows "View” as result. If you create and attach a test, a Pass/Fail record is kept. The video file will open in its native application or browser window. 

Method 2: Create a Lesson with Cells Containing Video Content including MP4 or URL Content.

Learning content can be provided as multiple video files with questions embedded between the video presentations, or if you want to use video from on-line video site such as YouTube.

MP4 Procedure: On an existing lesson, follow the steps provided below to create a lesson cell with MP4 video content.

1. Select  from the toolbar.
2. Do you want this to be the first cell in a topic?
   1. If Yes, select the topic.
   2. If No, select the cell below which you want to add the new cell.
3. Select Cell: Add on the Action toolbar.
4. Select Next.
5. Select and delete "Enter Cell Content Here" text.
   1. If needed, enter any other text relevant to the video to be displayed.
   2. Type (or copy/paste) video title or any other text relevant to the video to be displayed.
6. Select Media Manager  
7. Select Upload.
8. Select the option Select.
   1. Result: Browse local computer to upload desired video file.
   2. Note: Maximum file size allowed is 85mb. Any video larger will need to be uploaded via URL.  
9. Select the new file uploaded and then select Insert.

URL Procedure: On an existing lesson, follow the steps provided below create a lesson cell with YouTube, Vimeo, or Microsoft Stream content.

1. Select  from the toolbar.
2. Do you want this to be the first cell in a topic?
   1. If Yes, select the topic.
   2. If No, select the cell below which you want to add the new cell.
3. Select Cell: Add on the Action toolbar.
4. Change Cell Type if needed. Display Cell will be used for adding video content
5. Select Next.
6. To add a YouTube or Vimeo video URL click the Insert External Video button.
   1. 
   2. Paste the YouTube or Vimeo video URL in the box. To do this, right-click the mouse and select Paste from the options displayed. Alternately, press CTRL + V on the keyboard to paste.
7. Click Save.
8. To add a Microsoft Stream video click the Hyperlink Manager
   1. 
   2. Paste the Microsoft Stream URL in the URL box. - To do this, right-click the mouse and select Paste from the options displayed. Alternately, press CTRL + V on the keyboard to paste.
9. Add the name of the video in the Link Text box.
10. Choose Browser Window to the Target dropdown.
11. Click OK.
12. Select Finish

Method 3: Using an Audio/Visual Training Item. 

Under the curriculum > training item tab, create an Audio/Visual type training item. You can use this Training Item to refer to content on audio/video/DVD media taken outside of Frontline.

For such content, administrators should use the Special Instructions field of the Training Item to communicate to learners source of the learning content (e.g. an off-site training seminar), and how to sign-up for the seminar.

You also have to manually enter completion records for any of these Training Item types after learners provide evidence of training completion, such as a certificate from the training provider.