September 25, 2004

Trying out Netflix

So I bit the bullet finally and signed up for Netflix. In addition to using LearnOutLoud.com to enable and promote audio learning, we’re also focusing on video learning as well. One of our goals is to encourage individuals to substitute 10-20% of the time they would normally be watching regular television with more substantial and beneficial programs. While some channels (A & E, The Learning Channel, etc.) carry this type of programming, it’s often best to look towards DVDs and VHS tapes instead…

The benefit of subscribing to Netflix is that you can watch as many programs in a month as you have time for. And they do have some good ones. I’m currently watching Joseph Campbell’s interview with Bill Moyers entitled The Power of Myth. It’s quite interesting and well worth watching. If you’ve read any of Campbell’s books (e.g., “The Hero with a Thousand Faces”), you’ll definitely enjoying these discs.

The downside of Netflix right now is that they don’t have a ton of “video learning” material available. There are a few titles by Deepak Chopra, Wayne Dyer and Caroline Myss but the number if relatively small compared to what’s out there. Imagine a day when you can rent Teaching Company and Nightingale-Conant titles for a monthly fee. That will be really, really cool.

In the meantime we’ll just have to make due with what Netflix (and other similar services such as those from Blockbuster and Wal-mart) has to offer. If you’re interested in giving Netflix a test run, you can get a free trial at www.netflix.com.