We’re used to consuming content in quick, short bursts—social media posts, emails, YouTube videos, Google searches, and so on. Short, easy-to-access information is appealing to on-the-go learners. Small chunks of content also appeal to “deskless workers” without access to a dedicated computer, such as retail associates and manufacturing plant workers. This type of learning has a name: microlearning.
What is microlearning?
Microlearning is a learning strategy that delivers content to learners in short (usually around 3-5 minutes) and easily understandable pieces of information.
A single module focuses on meeting one learning objective. Thus, it breaks up a large topic into smaller, digestible portions.
Think of it as a learning strategy that tells you what you Need to Know versus what is Good to Know.
Advantages of microlearning
- Microlearning drives 20% more information retention than traditional long-form training.
- Learners can learn things at their own pace, without the need to keep up with other people.
- Learners are 50% more engaged when lessons are delivered in segments of 7-11 minutes.
- Learners improve performance by 17% with microlearning.
- Microlearning courses can be developed 300% faster than traditional e-learning courses, and development costs are reduced by 50%.
However, microlearning should not be used as a substitute for instructor-led classes or MOOCs.
In the beginning, learners need traditional e-learning courses to understand a topic and develop required skills. Microlearning provides reminders of skills already learned.
Creating effective microlearning
Creating an effective microlearning program isn’t as simple as breaking up a long-form course into smaller fragments. Content should be relevant, be delivered in an engaging manner, and close immediate knowledge gaps.
Consider the following steps to create an effective microlearning course:
1) Know your learners
Understanding your learners will help you avoid unnecessary noise around a topic and generate greater engagement.
2) Focus, focus, focus
Each microlearning module should focus on a single objective, which is applicable to the learner’s work or life and can trigger a desired behavioral change.
Questions to ask yourself when identifying an objective:
- Will learners be able to make a decision using this content?
- Will this content help learners take action?
3) Choose a mobile-first approach
Learners can access mobile modules on the go, for instance, when they’re traveling to work, waiting in line, or simply have some spare time.
It may be even better to enable offline access since learners may not be able to connect to the Internet at all times.
4) Include images and media
Comparative charts, infographics, diagrams, photos, or illustrations help learners retain information better than text alone. But images must add value—they shouldn’t be simply decorative because extraneous images can add to the cognitive load and hinder learning.
5) Use real-world examples
Succinct, story-rich presentations will help learners relate to the content and connect it with their real lives, making retention easier.
Also, encourage learners to create their own stories and apply the knowledge they acquire to situations in real life.
6) Follow a minimalist design
When you decide what content to include in the module, ask yourself – “How can this be visualized?” Use crisp bullet points and relevant icons to present the information.
7) Use a variety of formats
You don’t want to bore the learners, so use different formats for different learning goals.
| Microlearning format | Application |
| Videos | Transfers information quickly |
| Quizzes | Pre-and post-assessment/reinforcement of learning |
| Interactive PDFs | Quick reference tool |
| Whiteboard animations | Introduces a process or concept |
| Simulations/How-to demos | Teach practical applications or give hands-on practice |
8) Use a conversational tone
Talk to learners in the way people speak to each other—use the active voice to make the content more appealing. It should sound like a conversation instead of a lecture.
9) Avoid complex instructions
Just as the content should be simple, the instructions to navigate the content should be straightforward and clear.
10) Embrace “learning by doing”
Don’t force-fit videos or interactivities into the module—they should help the learner apply the learnings to his/her current situation at work or life and enable achievement of the learning objectives.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 outbreak has catapulted microlearning into the spotlight as organizations around the globe shift online to enable continuous learning. Working professionals are using microlearning courses to upskill and prepare for changing realities at the workplace. If you want to create microlearning courses for learners, now is the right time to step in and help the world of learning take another step forward.
