YouTube in the Classroom: Helpful Tips and Student Perceptions

The rise in popularity of YouTube has made the use of short video clips during college classroom instruction a common learning tool. However, questions still remain on how to best implement this learning tool as well as students' perceptions of its use. Blended Learning Theory and Information Processing Theory provide insights into successful integration of technology into the classroom. Literature on multimedia and discussions is also reviewed to shed light on their potential value as teaching techniques. As an example of successful integration, a method of presenting YouTube clips is described in a psychology course. Immediately after the videos, the class participated in structured discussions. Students' perceptions of the YouTube videos were positive; however, students perceived certain videos as more helpful than others. In addition, class quiz scores are reflected on as indices of learning.