The YouTube Revolution in Knowledge Transfer: Unlocking Tacit Knowledge on a Mass Scale

Kazuki

Hatched by Kazuki

Aug 31, 2023

5 min read

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The YouTube Revolution in Knowledge Transfer: Unlocking Tacit Knowledge on a Mass Scale

In today's digital age, where modern video media dominates our screens, it is easy to argue that attention spans have shortened and traditional written articles or books have taken a backseat. However, what often goes unnoticed is the incredible power of video in unlocking a form of mass-scale tacit knowledge transmission. This phenomenon is unprecedented in history and has revolutionized the preservation and spread of knowledge that may have otherwise been lost.

Tacit knowledge refers to knowledge that cannot be effectively transmitted through verbal or written instruction. It encompasses skills and abilities that are best learned through observation and imitation. Before the advent of video technology, tacit knowledge had to be transmitted in person, allowing learners to closely observe the knowledge in action and learn in real-time. However, not everyone possesses the ability to be true autodidacts who can invent their own techniques. For many, learning through watching and imitating is a more accessible and effective method.

This is where platforms like YouTube have played a crucial role. With the ability to upload and share videos, YouTube has become a hub for knowledge seekers to learn from experts in various fields. While massive open online courses (MOOCs) emerged in the early 2010s with the promise of democratizing education, they largely failed to deliver. With completion rates as low as 5% and student retention rates below 10%, it became clear that traditional online courses were not engaging learners effectively.

The key difference between online courses and YouTube videos lies in the delivery method. Online courses often rely on written materials and quizzes, which may not effectively cater to different learning styles. YouTube, on the other hand, harnesses the power of video, allowing learners to visually absorb and imitate the knowledge being shared. This appeals to the innate human tendency to learn by watching and imitating, making it a more natural and engaging experience.

YouTube reports that searches in the "how-to" category have grown by a staggering 70% year-on-year. This indicates a growing demand for practical and hands-on learning experiences, which videos provide. The camera's unflinching eye captures what even experimental scientists may not realize they know, opening a window to distant collaborators and enabling the creation of a truly open science. Through platforms like YouTube, knowledge is shared transparently, surpassing traditional methods like preregistration, sharing of source code, and original data sets.

In understanding the importance of video in knowledge transfer, it is essential to delve into the SECI model of knowledge dimensions. This model explains how tacit and explicit knowledge are converted into organizational knowledge. The four dimensions of the SECI model are as follows:

  • 1. Tacit to Explicit (Externalization): This dimension involves the process of externalizing tacit knowledge into explicit knowledge through publishing and articulating knowledge. It is through externalization that factors are developed, embedding the combined tacit knowledge and enabling its communication.
  • 2. Explicit to Explicit (Combination): In this dimension, explicit knowledge is combined with other forms of explicit knowledge through organizing and integrating knowledge. This can be seen in activities such as building prototypes, where different types of explicit knowledge are brought together.
  • 3. Explicit to Tacit (Internalization): The internalization dimension focuses on the process of converting explicit knowledge into tacit knowledge through individual learning and application. Learning through doing is a key aspect of internalization, where explicit knowledge becomes part of an individual's knowledge and contributes to the organization as a valuable asset.
  • 4. Tacit to Tacit (Socialization): Socialization is the dimension that involves the sharing of tacit knowledge among individuals. It is through this process of sharing knowledge that new discoveries and insights can be made. This dimension highlights the importance of interaction and collaboration in knowledge creation.

By connecting the concepts of tacit knowledge transmission through video and the SECI model of knowledge dimensions, we can see how platforms like YouTube have revolutionized the way we acquire and share knowledge. Video allows for the externalization of tacit knowledge through demonstrations and explanations, making it accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, the combination and organization of explicit knowledge in videos contribute to the internalization of knowledge in learners.

In conclusion, the YouTube revolution in knowledge transfer has unlocked a new era of mass-scale tacit knowledge transmission. While video media may have its drawbacks, it has provided an unparalleled opportunity to preserve and spread knowledge that may have otherwise been lost. By embracing the power of video, learners can tap into their natural inclination to learn through observation and imitation. To make the most of this revolution, here are three actionable pieces of advice:

  • 1. Embrace diverse learning methods: Recognize that different individuals have different learning styles. While some may thrive in traditional written formats, others may benefit greatly from video-based learning. Incorporating a variety of learning methods can enhance the effectiveness of knowledge transfer.
  • 2. Curate and seek reliable content: With the vast amount of content available on platforms like YouTube, it is crucial to curate and seek out reliable sources. Look for videos from reputable experts or organizations that provide accurate and well-researched information. This ensures that the knowledge gained is of high quality.
  • 3. Engage in active learning: Watching and imitating is just the beginning. To truly internalize knowledge, engage in active learning by applying what you've learned. Practice, experiment, and seek opportunities to reinforce your understanding. This active approach will solidify your grasp of the knowledge and allow you to make it your own.

In the age of digital media, the YouTube revolution has transformed the way we acquire and share knowledge. Through the power of video, tacit knowledge can be transmitted on a mass scale, bridging the gap between learners and experts. By embracing this revolution and utilizing the SECI model of knowledge dimensions, we can unlock new realms of understanding and drive innovation in various fields. So, let us embrace the YouTube revolution and embark on a journey of lifelong learning like never before.

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