The Frustration of YouTube Videos in the Classroom

In today’s educational environment, it’s not uncommon for professors to incorporate multimedia resources into their lessons. However, a recurring concern among students is the frequency with which YouTube videos are utilized during class time.

For instance, I attend a course where, on a weekly basis, we spend an entire session watching a video on YouTube. While I appreciate the intention behind using supplementary materials, it can be disheartening to feel as though my tuition is being used to facilitate what seems like a self-directed activity. After all, these videos are accessible to everyone at no cost.

Students are investing significant amounts of money in their education, so it’s understandable to expect that class time be utilized in meaningful ways—ideally for in-depth discussions, interactive learning, or direct engagement with the instructor. Watching a video that could easily be consumed outside of class can leave many feeling shortchanged.

Have you experienced similar sentiments in your classes? How do you feel about the role of online videos in your education? Let’s explore the balance between technology and traditional learning methods, and discuss what makes for a truly enriching classroom experience.