Investigation of the behaviors of individuals while using video-based learning environments in terms of informal learning

The main purpose of this research is to examine the behaviors of individuals while using video-based learning environments in terms of informal learning. In line with this main purpose, the informal learning environments used by the participants in terms of informal learning, the way they use web technologies and the way they use video-based learning environments were examined. The research was carried out with 50 adults living in Ankara as of 2021-2022, at the level of primary, secondary, high school and university. The method of this research was designed within the frame of the Case Study Model. The data obtained from the semi-structured interviews with the participants and the screen recordings taken while using web technologies were analyzed by content analysis. According to the data obtained in this research, all of the participants use the internet in terms of informal learning, and at the same time, in terms of informal learning. It was seen that they received support from their parents, teachers and authorities in the field and benefited from written sources. According to the way the participants use web technologies, it has been recorded that they use text-based sites, video-based sites, reliable sites, first appeared sites, forum sites and visual sources. It was observed that the participants used the interaction features of speeding up, rewinding, activating subtitles, previewing and changing the video quality while using video-based learning environments. It was seen that the most frequently used video interaction feature by the participants was the fast forward interaction feature. In addition, it was determined that the participants at the primary school level generally tend to watch the entire video. According to the video recordings of the participants, it was concluded that the videos that were watched till the end were generally short time videos. Participants noted that the instructional videos should be short-term, do not contain background music or include background music in transitions, support the videos with visuals, use real images or animations according to the subject, support the videos with laconic sentences, include interactive games and questions. They also stated that the bibliography of the videos should be indicated, and should be scored the videos like applications. In addition, it was reported by the participants that eye contact, gestures and facial expressions are important in terms of learning, and therefore the presence of the narrator on the screen is beneficial for learning. The participants commented on the importance of the short duration of the videos and they stated that the playlists and video segmentation provided great convenience to the users. It was observed that the participants often chose the video according to the video cover photo, video duration, video title and the number of video views while they prefer any video in video-based learning environments. Based on the data obtained from the participants' use of web technologies and the results of the interviews, up-to-date suggestions for instructional video designs were created. Keywords: Video-based learning, informal learning, instructional video design.