Have you ever wanted to create a collection of educational videos that students can access easily? A YouTube playlist is a simple way to organize and share videos in a structured format. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to make a YouTube playlist, why it can be a powerful classroom tool, and how you can use it to support student learning.
I’ve shared lots of resources related to YouTube in the past, including:
- YouTube Channels to Use in Your Classroom
- Quick Tips to Save You Time on YouTube – Easy EdTech Podcast 139
- 7 YouTube Tips for Teachers with a Free Download
Today on the blog, I’ll take you through the steps of making your own YouTube playlist. It’s a great (and totally free) way of getting content into the hands of students, families, and colleagues.
What is a YouTube Playlist?
A YouTube playlist is a collection of videos grouped together so they can be watched in a specific order or at a student’s own pace. Instead of sharing individual video links, you can provide a single playlist link, making it easier for students to navigate content. Playlists are useful for:
- Organizing videos for a research project
- Providing tutorials for independent learning
- Curating content for small group instruction
- Sharing resources with families or colleagues
How to Make a YouTube Playlist
Creating a YouTube playlist is simple and doesn’t require a premium account. Here’s how you can get started:
Step 1: Sign in to YouTube
If you have a Google account, you already have access to YouTube. Sign in using your Google credentials.
Step 2: Find a Video to Add to Your Playlist
Search for a video you want to include in your playlist. Watch the video to ensure it meets your criteria for quality and relevance.
Step 3: Click the “Save” Button
Below the video, click the Save button. This will prompt you to add the video to an existing playlist or you can also create a new one.
Step 4: Create a New Playlist
- Click Create new playlist
- Enter a title for your playlist (e.g., Intro to Fractions or The Water Cycle)
- Choose the privacy setting:
- Public: Anyone can find and view the playlist
- Unlisted: Only those with the link can view it
- Private: Only you can see the playlist
For classroom use, Unlisted or Public are often the best options. The same thing goes if you are making a playlist you want to share with colleagues or families.
Step 5: Add More Videos
Repeat the process to add more videos to your playlist. Instead of “Create new playlist,” you’ll simply add it to an existing playlist (aka the one you just created). You can find your playlist anytime by clicking Library on the left-hand menu in YouTube.
Step 6: Share the Playlist
Once your playlist is ready, open it and click the Share button. You’ll get a link that you can copy and share with students, families, or colleagues.
Using YouTube Playlists in the Classroom
Playlists can be a valuable resource for introducing new topics. For example, if you’re teaching a unit on weather patterns, you can create a playlist featuring engaging videos about different climate zones, cloud formations, and extreme weather events. This might be perfect for whole-class instruction or something you use with small groups of students.
Small Group and Differentiation
You can create playlists tailored to different student needs. For example:
- Struggling students: Provide step-by-step tutorial videos to help reinforce concepts.
- Advanced learners: Offer extension videos on complex topics.
- English language learners: Curate content with subtitles or slower-paced explanations.
Independent Learning & Homework Support
A YouTube playlist can serve as a reference for students working on projects or reviewing content at home. Instead of searching the internet for reliable videos, they’ll have a pre-approved selection ready to go. If you’ve read my book EdTech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in the Age of AI 2nd Edition, then you might remember the chapter on “Curate.” This is an opportunity to curate or hand-pick resources for students.
Best Practices for Creating Effective Playlists
- Curate Thoughtfully: Choose high-quality, age-appropriate videos that align with your learning objectives.
- Keep It Organized: Arrange videos in a logical order if sequencing is important.
- Provide Context: Add descriptions or timestamps in the playlist description to guide students.
- Review Regularly: Check your playlist periodically to update or remove outdated content.
Making a YouTube Playlist
YouTube playlists are a powerful and simple way to organize educational videos for your students. Whether you’re looking to enhance whole-class instruction, differentiate learning, or support students outside of the classroom, a well-curated playlist can make a big difference.
Ready to create your first YouTube playlist? Follow the steps above and start curating video content that enhances learning in your classroom! And if you’re looking for more curation tips, check out EdTech Essentials: 12 Strategies for Every Classroom in the Age of AI 2nd Edition and download the free study guide.
