Not to be a wet blanket, but I think we need to be VERY careful in which things we would allow as subject matter to meet training requirements. Some of the tools we have are dangerous or can be damaged by a little carelessness. Back on my hands-on component soapbox, I think there is real value in having a hands-on component for training - it allows the instructor to see if the person was listening to what they were told to do and how to do it. So, if video training is going to be done, then could there be a quick hands-on test out before access is truly granted to use some of the machines and tools?
For example the CNC router. Having all the computer stuff and design and tool path and file format info - all the stuff that takes place in lecture basically could be done by video. It would also allow folks to watch it over and over again should they feel the need in order to get a grasp of it all or to just remember what was said and be a great refresher for those who don’t use it often.
I think the hands-on portion of the Woodshop Basics that was implemented is WONDERFUL and having separate videos going over each machine would be great as freshers or prep to actually take the Basics class for those who are brand new to these tools which would include how to clear the dust collectors and stuff that folks sometimes don’t think about people not knowing. The hands-on/test portion could include just a short refresher, instructor demo and then students test out on the tool. It would probably help save the voices of the instructors a bit, too and shorten the classes.
Same as with the Lasers, I’d love an in-depth video of the lasers and the expectations of use, suggested materials and a lot of the stuff that might be somewhere in the Wiki or the back of the manual. However, while I’ve used the Zing and Thunder, I’ve never used the Lasersaur. If I could go back and watch a video I’d feel more confident even though I know the basics from using the other machines. But then, require a hand-on test to see if they know where the fire extinguishers are and the E-stop buttons on each machine, how to use the queue board and where to pay their fees, etc.
For some of the classes, like Leatherworking basics, explaining what the expectations are for use and what tools we have could easily be done by video. The printers, Metaza, air-brushes, vinyl cutters, 3d printing etc, easily the same perhaps.
For the types of general training videos, where there would be no hands-on test, is there any way using our user login function that we could verify that the person played or watched the videos and actually took the training? Some sort of online test that would force them to at least answer questions about the information covered. I mean if we require training for use/access, how would we know that they actually watched the videos?
Also, if we go this route then, I would hope that the BoD and honorarium auditors would perhaps re-examine the general position against open-lab type hands-on classes where there would be a work session for those kinds of things so that people having problems or questions could attend a gathering with instructors for hands-on face time and help. So have for example, 3d printing is taught by video, but then offer a print-lab where people can come with their projects and questions for help from instructors. So an instructor being available for 2 hrs, for example, to host print-lab, or whatever would be compensated for their time and experience and availability to answer question and offer assistance. OMG, if there was a Woodshop open-lab where I didn’t feel like I was pulling someone away from their project to ask for help with mine - that would be amazing…like newbie happy hour! Of course, I’d be a cheer-leader for open-labs in areas that find project classes problematic in any event, but when the face time with instructors is removed by video instruction, I feel open-labs would be even more important. You can slow the videos, back them up, make them repeat themselves ad nauseam, but videos can’t answer your questions no matter how much you might like to talk to the screen.
@Adam_Oas is right, when done well, they are GREAT. When folks come to me with leather questions and say they watched a video on YouTube, I always ask for more information. Some are great and informative and some are very much less so. Additionally, the level of care that one might need to take with something that belongs to the Space, versus tools they personally own, might be drastically different (thinking modified flat head screwdrivers here). There are also different expectations when working in an indoor communal area versus alone at home. I think conveying that should be priority number one.
So for an initial go, perhaps doing videos for new Members (versus the public) on where things are and how to do them would be great and a foolproof way to convey our expectations as a community.
Things like:
General rules overview - DMS stuff stays at DMS and the rules violations that will get you banned or suspended as well
What does “being excellent” really mean? - community expectations of behavior and owning it when you oops
Tech Time - Logging into the DMS computers, accessing the WiFi & jump server, casting to the TVs, general printing
Talk - creating your account, using it to post or PM and how to use the Issues/Requests page
Using the calendar to find and register for classes and tracking events you’re attending or hosting
What’s a Wiki? - where to find the rules, meeting minutes, committee pages and so on
Using the Tool Status Board and finding DMS tool information and manuals
Using MakerManager3 - yes, you do need stinking badges and other account maintenance
Snack time! - getting and using a Parks card, how to manage accounts and add $ online, galley supplies & fridge rules
My stuff and your crap - personal storage bins (how to get one and pay for it) and the Lost and Found shelf
Project, pallet and floor storage (how to get it, manage it and request extensions)
Donating to the 'Space and offering equipment on loan
Help Yourself - The freebie shelves and the Fantastic Scrap Bins and Where to Find Them.
What happens if your stuff gets off-sited (where to go and how to get in)
How to find volunteer opportunities at the 'Space and help out
Where the vacuum cleaners (how to use and empty them) trash bags, hand scrub, utility sink, etc can be found
Taking out the trash - recycling options in the galley and where to find the dumpster, what can go in it and how much!
Your mama don’t work here! - cleaning up after yourself & putting things back where you found them
How to pay your consumables and machine fees (PayPal, envelopes, money monoliths and helping us track the $)
Committees and SIGs at DMS - what they do and how to participate in them
Official Meetings and voting rights at DMS
Teaching at the 'Space (creating classes, using the calendar, marking attendance, honorarium, etc.)
Social time at DMS - potlucks, games, pinball, movie time, food delivery info
Social responsibility at DMS - Can I bring my kids, pets or my beer to DMS?
Over 18 - handling project content at DMS that might be less than family friendly
…these are all things we usually pick up after a few months (or years) as Members only after realizing we didn’t know what we didn’t know. I can’t help but feel that training folks on how to use the 'Space in general and responsibly is just as important as any tool training we can offer. While not everyone might not use the Laser, every member needs to know where to find the trash bags and the dumpster.