Eleven Guidelines for the Design of Instructional Videos for Software Training

Abstract

Purpose: Video is a popular medium for instructing people how to use software. In 2013, van der Meij and van der Meij proposed eight guidelines for the design of instructional videos for software training. Since then, production techniques and video features evolved, and new insights about characteristics of effective video instructions emerged. Methods: Based on recent study outcomes and our reflections on instructional video designs, the original set of eight guidelines was restructured, updated, and extended. Results:A new framework with 11 guidelines was constructed. For these guidelines the article provides scientifically-based advice for the design of instructional videos for software training. Conclusion: The new framework and the illustrations of how the guidelines were applied in videos should provide useful insights for further practice and research on instructional video design.