The Entertainment Value Curve and 7 Mental Models for Learning: Uncovering the Connection

The Entertainment Value Curve and 7 Mental Models for Learning: Uncovering the Connection

Introduction:
In today's digital age, successful mobile video apps thrive not only on providing a viewing experience but also on creating a social experience. This article explores the concept of the Entertainment Value Curve and its connection to the success of video platforms like TikTok. Additionally, it delves into 7 mental models for effective learning, highlighting their relevance in gaining knowledge and expanding one's horizons.

The Entertainment Value Curve:
The Entertainment Value Curve is a formula that combines production value and social value to generate an efficient frontier of product/market fit. The equation for entertainment value is as follows: Entertainment Value = Production Value + Social Value. This curve reveals how viewers enjoy content differently based on who is creating and sharing it.

Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Netflix:
Examining different platforms on the Entertainment Value Curve, we can see how they position themselves and cater to user preferences. Snapchat, with its low production value but high social value, allows anyone to create fun content using AR lenses. Instagram, on the other hand, has successfully increased its entertainment value by lowering the production bar for content and making it readily accessible through IG Stories and the Explore feed. TikTok stands out by prioritizing topical content first and fostering a strong connection between creators and viewers. Netflix, known for its high production value, primarily targets elite Hollywood content creators.

Understanding Social Value and Production Value:
To measure social value, one can look at the creation participation rate, which is the percentage of users who create content regularly. Platforms with more people creating content tend to have a higher likelihood of connection between creators and viewers. Production value, on the other hand, refers to the quality of content relative to the highest quality in its genre. High production value platforms have shorter content distribution tails, while low production value platforms have longer tails.

The Missteps of Quibi:
Quibi's failure can be attributed to its lack of optimization for the Entertainment Value Curve. Despite adding format, length, and viewing constraints, Quibi did not supplement those constraints with increased social value. Quibi focused on the short duration of content, whereas what people truly desire is shareable and social content.

The Connection Between the Entertainment Value Curve and Learning Models:
Interestingly, there are common points between the Entertainment Value Curve and the mental models for learning. Both emphasize the importance of simplicity, understanding limitations, avoiding biases, and seeking knowledge beyond what is considered common.

7 Mental Models for Learning:

1. Circle of Competence: Acknowledging and defining one's limitations is crucial for effective learning.
2. Thought Experiment: Delving deeper into a concept through thought experiments helps strengthen understanding.
3. Occam's Razor: Choosing the simplest explanation among complex theories aids in better comprehension.
4. Availability Heuristic: Challenging the availability bias and seeking alternative sources of information promotes true learning.
5. Hindsight Bias: Recognizing the bias in hindsight helps maintain a fresh perspective and encourages continuous learning.
6. Common Knowledge: Going beyond common knowledge and acquiring additional expertise sets one apart.
7. Feynman Learning Technique: Teaching a concept to others, identifying knowledge gaps, organizing information, and transmitting it solidify understanding.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace the power of social value: When creating or consuming content, prioritize building connections and fostering social interactions.
2. Challenge biases and seek alternative perspectives: Avoid falling into the trap of hindsight bias or relying solely on common knowledge. Explore different sources and viewpoints for a well-rounded understanding.
3. Continuously expand your circle of competence: Recognize your limitations and actively seek new areas of knowledge to grow and learn.

Conclusion:
Understanding the Entertainment Value Curve and incorporating mental models for learning can greatly enhance our experiences and knowledge acquisition. By embracing the social value of content, challenging biases, and continuously expanding our circle of competence, we can navigate the digital landscape effectively and make the most of our learning journey.