Simplifying Training Videos for Better Learning Outcomes
Imagine you are watching a training video at work, and the presenter keeps throwing around terms like “PPO,” “extraneous load,” or “CNA list” without explaining them. Instead of focusing on the key message, you are stuck trying to decode jargon and complex language. This phenomenon is a prime example of cognitive overload—a concept at the heart of Cognitive Load Theory (CLT). Developed to help educators and communicators understand how humans process information, CLT emphasises the importance of balancing the mental effort required to learn. Paired with the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning, these frameworks highlight why clear, approachable language is essential in training videos. This article explores how simplifying language, minimising distractions, and structuring information can enhance learning outcomes and engagement, particularly in video-based training.
Cognitive Load Theory
Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) suggests that humans have a limited capacity for processing information at one time. When learners encounter too much unfamiliar language or jargon, their cognitive resources become overloaded. Instead of focusing on the core content of the training, they are distracted by trying to understand the unfamiliar words or concepts. This reduces the brain’s ability to store and process new information effectively. If cognitive load becomes too high, learners may disengage or stop processing information altogether.
- Intrinsic Load: This refers to the complexity of the content itself. For example, a topic that is inherently difficult will already require more cognitive effort.
- Extraneous Load: This is the additional mental effort needed to understand information that isn’t directly related to the core content (like jargon or overly complex language).
- Germane Load: This is the mental effort dedicated to processing the material and forming connections. If a video uses complicated language, it adds to extraneous load, leaving less mental capacity for germane load, which can hinder learning.
The Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning
This theory, developed by Richard Mayer, suggests that people learn more effectively from multimedia (e.g., video, images, text) when the content is presented in an engaging and clear way. Videos that are overly dense with jargon or words that viewers don’t understand are likely to cause “cognitive overload.” This overload occurs because the learner must split their attention between decoding difficult language and absorbing new concepts, rather than integrating new knowledge in a meaningful way.
Additionally, if a viewer doesn’t understand the words, the information they are receiving may not make sense in the context of their prior knowledge. This disconnect reduces the effectiveness of the training.
The Role of Attention
Attention is a limited resource, and when people are constantly trying to figure out unfamiliar terms or complex sentences, their attention is diverted away from the main message. Research shows that people are more likely to stay engaged when they feel they can follow the content without too much effort. When jargon overwhelms them, they might tune out or lose focus, leading to disengagement.
The “Curse of Knowledge”
This is a cognitive bias where experts or creators assume that their audience has the same level of knowledge they do. This often results in the use of complex terms, abbreviations, and concepts that may be familiar to the creator but are difficult for the learner to understand. When this happens in training videos, the audience may feel frustrated or alienated, leading to a loss of interest or comprehension.
The Importance of Using Approachable Language and Explaining Jargon
To enhance engagement and retention, it is important to use clear, concise, and relatable language. Here’s why:
- Lower Cognitive Load: Simple, everyday language allows the learner to focus on the content itself rather than struggling to decipher complex terms. This reduces extraneous load and allows for more efficient learning.
- Increased Engagement: When people feel that they can understand the material without unnecessary effort, they are more likely to stay engaged and motivated to continue.
- Improved Retention: When jargon is explained in simple terms or accompanied by examples, it becomes easier to remember and integrate into long-term memory.
- Inclusive Learning: Not all learners come with the same background or expertise. Using accessible language ensures that a wider audience can engage with the material, including beginners or those with less technical knowledge.
Practical Tips for Creating Effective Training Videos
- Define Jargon Early: A good video production company will ensure that technical terms are clearly defined when they first appear in the training videos. Providing simple definitions or analogies, along with relevant visuals or examples, makes complex terminology more accessible and helps learners understand it more easily.
- Use Simple, Direct Language: Effective training videos prioritise clarity, so a video production team will focus on using straightforward, simple language. If specialised terminology must be included, it will be broken down into easy-to-understand explanations, avoiding overly complex sentences that could confuse or disengage viewers.
- Engage Multiple Learning Modalities: To enhance comprehension, a video production team will combine verbal explanations with visuals, diagrams, and on-screen text. This multi-modal approach ensures the content is reinforced and understood through different learning styles, making the material more engaging and accessible.
- Chunk Information: Training videos are often most effective when the content is broken into smaller, digestible segments. A skilled video production team will structure the video to prevent cognitive overload, allowing viewers to process and retain information incrementally.
Case Studies: Simplifying Jargon in Training Videos
Simplified Employee Communication at Davis & Company: In one case, a healthcare benefits communication had heavy jargon and acronyms that caused confusion. The original message used terms like “PPO” and “POS” without adequate explanation, making it unclear to many employees. By simplifying the language, avoiding acronyms, and focusing on one central message, the training video became much clearer. The revamped message delivered more direct information like “New health network offers more doctors, lower costs,” which made the benefits clearer and easier to understand
Wavelength Training’s Approach to Avoiding Jargon: Wavelength Training discusses how jargon can alienate non-experts and hinder effective communication. In one example, a complex phrase like “CNA list” was replaced with “customer name & address list,” making it accessible to everyone, even those without prior knowledge. Such changes in training materials help avoid alienating employees who might struggle with industry-specific language
Final Thoughts
The principles of Cognitive Load Theory and the Cognitive Theory of Multimedia Learning emphasise the importance of simplifying language to make training content accessible and effective. These concepts go beyond theory—they have practical applications that deliver real-world results. For instance, the U.S. Army transformed its training programmes by simplifying overly technical manuals and replacing dense text with clear, visual aids. This shift significantly improved soldiers’ ability to quickly understand and apply essential information, reducing training time and increasing retention rates.
This example highlights why reducing extraneous load and using relatable, straightforward language matters. When jargon and complexity are minimised, learners can focus fully on understanding and integrating the core content. Whether in workplace training videos or educational resources, designing for clarity ensures that learning is inclusive, engaging, and impactful for diverse audiences.
Keep it simple, keep it clear—Sound Idea Digital makes your training videos easier to understand, so your team can focus on what matters most! Contact us today to create training content that drives real results!
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