In this paper theoretical perspectives for analyzing the pedagogical meaningfulness of using videos in teaching, studying and learning are presented and discussed with a special focus on using digital and online video materials. The theoretical arguments were applied in the international Joint Inserts Bank (JIBS) for Schools project. Out of existing theoretical literature six characteristics of meaningful learning were selected. According to these characteristics, meaningful learning is 1) active, 2) constructive and individual, 3) collaborative and conversational, 4) contextual, 5) guided, and 6) emotionally involving and motivating. In this paper, these characteristics are discussed with a special focus on learning with digital and online video materials. The characteristics provide insights into how digital and online videos can be used in a pedagogically meaningful way in teaching, studying and learning processes. It is evident that videos viewed either through television or computer can be seen as tools for learning. However, videos are just one component in the complexity of a classroom activity system. The learning outcomes depend largely on the way videos are used as part of the overall learning environment, e.g. how viewing or producing videos is integrated into other learning resources and tasks. (Contains 1 table.)