What is Microlearning?
Everyone learns in different ways and it comes down to our ability to digest and process the information we are given. However, microlearning is designed to offer an alternative and could help people to learn more effectively and efficiently.
What is Microlearning?
Essentially, microlearning is the opposite of learning in the traditional sense as it breaks learning down into smaller segments of between ten and thirteen minutes. What this means is that it provides learning in shorter bursts that learners can follow in their own time. The way in which it is delivered is varied and comes in many different forms.
Why is Microlearning Effective?
Microlearning is highly effective because of the way in which it provides a suitable alternative to long-form eLearning. This is because subjects or courses are taught in smaller, manageable chunks and that enables students to digest information quickly and do more in between assignments. Furthermore, as the information is easily digestible, it means that they are more likely to retain the subject too.
What are the benefits?
There are a number of benefits that come with microlearning, this includes:
It’s more efficient – As information and content are shorter, it means that it’s easier and faster to deliver.
More Affordable – Microlearning is cheaper to produce as it requires fewer resources and fewer instructions. Furthermore, the content can be created without the need for additional tools.
It’s Engaging – Microlearning makes it easier for learners to engage with the course and materials. It’s so quick that it is much like browsing the news on devices or checking out social media. It doesn’t necessarily feel like studying which makes it easier to engage with.
Improved Knowledge Retention – As learning is broken down into smaller segments, it makes it easier for learners to learn through revisiting the materials or information. As the units are small and concise, areas can be covered quickly and efficiently.
Learn with Freedom – Learners will have the scope to take advantage of casual learning when they have the time. The units are small enough to download and can be taken offline, giving them the ability to absorb content when it suits them.
Why should it be used online?
Almost everyone has access online and that means that microlearning becomes easier to deliver and is less time-consuming. The content can be created efficiently and when delivered online, it makes it possible for learners to access units and resources when it suits them.
Microlearning Best Practices
Mobile Access – Microlearning is suitable for those who are on the move, so it should be made available for them to access when they need it. Whatever the device and wherever they are, they should have the ability to access it.
Create Focused Modules – The aim is to deliver content in 3 to 5 minutes, so you should ensure that your content is on point which means that you should only focus on one idea per module.
Use Visuals and Media – Not all learning requires text and that’s where you should incorporate visuals and media. These can make it easier to digest and retain information while keeping the learner engaged.
Keep it Streamlined – Make sure you only choose to use content that adds value. The aim is to give the learner all that they need and nothing more. This will allow them to focus on learning and retaining the information provided.
Examples of Microlearning
The great thing about microlearning is that it is versatile and can be delivered across many different formats. Therefore you can use the following:
- Images
- Text
- Audio clips
- Videos
- Quizzes and tests
- Games
Conclusion
Microlearning has a pivotal role to play in the fast-paced world that we live in. When learning is broken down into manageable chunks it makes it easier to learn and makes it more convenient at the same time.