Teachers’ use of video content for instruction has increased dramatically over the past three years, according to a survey.
Fully 76 percent of teachers said they stream or download video content in the classroom, up from 55 percent in 2007, reports “Deepening Connections,” an annual survey of teachers’ technology use published by PBS. Asked about the benefits of using video for instruction, 68 percent of the teachers surveyed said it stimulates discussions, and 66 percent agreed that it increases student motivation. A majority (55 percent) said it helps them to be more creative.
Teachers’ use of shorter video segments (three to five minutes) is also on the rise, the survey reports, suggesting that teachers may be using video “more strategically to introduce, supplement, and reinforce content.”
Overall, the survey finds teachers’ reliance on digital media is growing, with 97 percent of respondents saying they have used some form of electronic content for instruction. Sixty-two percent reported they use digital media on a frequent basis, while 24 percent said they use it every day.
According to the survey, interactive whiteboards are teachers most prized digital resource, with 68 percent of those surveyed pointing to their value.
