Educational videos are popular for both children and adults. So popular, in fact, that entire cable television networks exist simply so that people can watch educational shows. The internet has become a fabulous place to share educational videos, and many sites make a variety of educational videos available at no charge. You can find educational videos on the internet to supplement any homeschool curriculum.
Educational Videos Online
Expert Village is a website devoted to sharing how-to videos. Every video is designed to teach viewers how to do something specific. They specialize in short videos, where experts share their tips and tricks for accomplishing small tasks.
Free Video Sites
Popular video sharing sites like YouTube also have educational videos. There are a surprising number of videos designed to show mathematical formulas and equations being worked, as well as science experiments. Also available on YouTube are documentaries, and investigative news shows.
Streaming Educational Films
The Discovery Channel has a program that families and classrooms can subscribe to for an annual fee, where streaming video content is made available along with access to other educational resources, like printable worksheets, and additional behind-the-scenes content. They offer a free 30 day trial subscription that's a lot of fun. Try it out over winter break or summer break, and relax with educational programming.
Finding Films Online
Sites like Fancast and Hulu offer free films and television series, as well as movie previews. These sites are legal and the material is authorized for web distribution. You can browse through and find older films, vintage television shows and educational videos.
Watch Free Educational Videos
There was a time when the only free educational videos a family could find were available at the public library, and that's still a great resource. Explore what the internet has to offer, though. Check the websites of your favorite educational cable television stations and educational magazines. Sites that are specifically designed for teachers and homeschoolers often have printable resources like quizzes and worksheets. You might also find links to corresponding games and other online activities. Browse through popular video sharing sites for educational videos on whatever topic you're studying. You can find everything from Ancient History to Zeitgeist online, for free.
Use caution with sites that are obviously illegal, offering you the opportunity to watch the latest movie releases. In addition to violating copyright laws by displaying films they aren't authorized to share, they also have a reputation for spreading adware and malicious files that can damage your computer.
Lisa Russell - Lisa Russell is a freelance writer and mom of six daughters. She blogs about their life at lisarussell.org
