Why use videos?
Visual demonstration of a task is an invaluable training tool. Watching a task being performed is a much quicker and easier way of communicating a set of instructions than learning a skill from a written protocol. As such, it is more inclusive and accessible to a greater number of learners. As you are perform a task, videos allow you to watch, pause and rewind – play-along learning.
Filming allows technical skills to be demonstrated without the need for close contact, so are an important tool in safe working environments in these times of social distancing. Compared to live demonstrations, they also have the advantage of always being available and also ‘recyclable’. After a demonstration has been performed once (and filmed) it is then available for all new team members and as a future reference – that is fantastic value! For this to work, you have to ensure that the video is available through a reliable training management system such as Training-Progress.
Why use a learning management system?
Videos must be easily accessible and sign posted for new team members if the advantages of video learning are not to be lost. Videos hidden away on computer drives or on video sharing sites will not be used by the team and so are wasted after the initial ‘flush’ of use. This is where scheduling video training into your training management system is invaluable in ensuring that team members receive consistent training in their job role tasks.
Our competition
We have teamed up with Vetnurse.co.uk to encourage vet practices to take advantage of videos as a training resource. This collaboration will ensure that the winning videos will have international exposure on the Brains & Drains YouTube channel, subject to peer review.
What are we looking for in a video?
- Hold your phone/camera in landscape. This works much better for training videos.
- Hold the camera still, ideally fixed in one spot.
- Make sure the audio is clear. An external lapel mic is excellent for this.
- State the aims of the video first – what can your viewers expect to learn?
- The subject needs to be generic. Something which every vet nurse in the country needs to know. Some ideas include –
- Clipping up/prep surgical site for routine procedures.
- How to prepare a blood smear
- How to prepare a diff quick slide
- How to package items for the autoclave
- How to care for dental elevators
- How to muzzle train a dog
- How to position a dog/cat for chest x-rays
- How to clip a cat’s claws
- Tips for gentle cat handling
- How to prepare a kennel for a rabbit
- Tips for keeping patients warm during surgery
- Physiotherapy for geriatric in patients
- No more than 5 minutes long.
Why submit a video?
RVNs and student nurses – Having your video published on a peer reviewed professional veterinary resource looks great on your CV. Presenting both your veterinary and communication skills.
For a veterinary practice or nurse training institution it provides a great shopfront for your organisation. At this time of recruitment crisis, what better way to demonstrate that your practice is fantastic place to work. A video featured on Brains & Drains will show your team is happy and motivated and that you recognise the unique skills of your RVNs.
So, get recording and make sure you submit your video before 5pm on Friday 30th July.
CLICK HERE to view a competition poster
CLICK HERE to submit your entry.
CLICK HERE for competition Ts & Cs