Professors at research universities prefer teaching with old-fashioned whiteboards

[GiaGiovanni]

19. Far Center: the DIY education strategy works well for simple, discrete skills, not for deep learning

A 15-minute video is great for particular points of interest. I can learn how to remove wallpaper from a wall, how to change my oil, how to solve a particular type of mixture problem in algebra (provided the video is well produced), etc. These are the same kinds of skills that one can pick up from a book, although video examples can be more lively and helpful.

It is far more difficult, however, to learn how to write a good research paper, a good essay, a good paragraph. These skills require lots of interaction from an instructor or tutor. If I want to learn how to play the violin, a 15-minute video (or even a series of them) will not substitute for weekly lessons with a classically trained violinist who can teach me proper technique over time. Foreign language learning can be aided by videos or interactive media, but eventually you need a native speaker to talk to and a teacher to take you through the finer points. And as for subjects like physics, you really need someone who can interact with you as you are learning the concepts and solving the problems.

In the end, videos and net info are good for small, discrete skills. The real learning at deeper levels requires live, interpersonal connection. My ideal is a hybrid: the small skills can be taught via computer, but the larger concepts and context are provided by a live person.