What is microlearning?

Posted by Greten on 26 Jan 2023 under Terms

Microlearning is a method of teaching and learning that focuses on giving small, targeted bits of information to achieve specified learning outcomes. Instead of longer lectures or extensive training sessions, microlearning presents information in small units that are quickly absorbed and retained.

Microlearning is gaining popularity as a teaching and learning method because it overcomes several typical issues that traditional learning methods encounter. Among the main benefits of microlearning is it is designed to be quick and easy to absorb, making it excellent for learners with limited time or attention spans. This is especially critical in today's fast-paced, digital society, as students are frequently overwhelmed with a deluge of information from various sources.

Advantages of microlearning

One of the main advantages of microlearning is that it helps students concentrate on a single topic or task without being overwhelmed by too much information. This can help learners understand and remember the information. In addition, learners can better remember when knowledge is provided in small portions rather than massive blocks.

Moreover, microlearning enables learners to review the information as needed, reinforcing their grasp and retention of the subject.

3d graphics of neurons or nerve cells

Furthermore, microlearning has the potential to be more engaging and interactive than standard teaching and learning approaches. This allows learners to actively participate in the material, which can help them grasp and recall it better. This can be accomplished through activities such as quizzes, scenarios, simulations, or games, allowing students to apply what they have learned in a practical setting, making the knowledge more meaningful and relevant. This can also help to keep learners engaged and motivated because they are not exposed to the same knowledge over and over.

Finally, you can present microlearning in various ways, including videos, podcasts, infographics, and interactive exercises. This can make learning more enticing to a variety of learners. For example, some students choose to watch a video. In contrast, others prefer to read an infographic or listen to a podcast. Speaking of formats, this brings us to the next section.

Formats of microlearning

The different microlearning formats are similar to the formats available in elearning. You can have static pages, infographics, videos, podcasts, and interactive exercises. Beyond this, however, are several variations of what constitutes microlearning. Some will define it as a 5- or 10-minute video, a 300-word webpage, or an infographic that can fit on one A4 paper when printed. Other experts, however, avoid defining microlearning in terms of length or time but focus on its characteristics as a small chunk and focused information.

In general, microlearning modules are single-format media that is meant to be studied on their own. The learners should also be able to study them when it is convenient for them. For example, watching a video, listening to a podcast, reading an article, or playing with an interactive exercise using their mobile device whenever they have spare time and in any environment, such as waiting for someone at the cafe or standing on a long queue. In contrast, attending an online class or accessing an elearning course made of several videos and other formats is not feasible in the scenarios mentioned above.

Learner browsing microlearning on mobile phone while eating cake at a cafe.

Because they are visually attractive and may be used to convey complex topics or show abilities, videos are a popular medium for microlearning. You can also use them to demonstrate real-life circumstances or examples, making learning more relatable and memorable. On the other hand, podcasts can be an excellent medium for students who would rather listen to the material than read it. Learners can also listen to podcasts while performing other activities, such as commuting or exercising.

Infographics are an excellent format for microlearning because they convey information in an easy-to-digest fashion, allowing learners to grasp and retain the knowledge more efficiently. In addition, you can use interactive exercises and games to make learning more exciting and interactive.

Furthermore, microlearning allows learners to receive knowledge at their own pace, which can be advantageous for learners with varying preferences and situations. For example, some students may choose to go swiftly through the curriculum, while others may prefer to take their time. This adaptability can help accommodate these students.

Settings where microlearning can be useful

Microlearning can be used in various contexts, including formal education, corporate training, and personal growth. It is instrumental in business training since it allows employees to obtain important material as needed.
This keeps staff updated on the latest industry advances and best practices, allowing them to do their jobs more efficiently.

Employees who operate in dynamic, fast-paced situations might gain the most from this strategy because it helps them swiftly acquire new skills and information to adapt to changes in their business. For example, employees in the technology business may need to be up to date on the latest software and programming languages. Similarly, healthcare industry employees may need to keep up to date of the recent medical research and treatments.

Microlearning can also be integrated into performance support systems, allowing employees to access it as needed. Without the need for lengthy training sessions, performance support systems can offer employees the information and tools they need to complete a specific activity or solve a particular problem. This is especially important for personnel in complicated or technical professions that require quick access to knowledge to do their job properly.

Microlearning can also be incorporated into blended learning programs, which combine traditional classroom teaching with online learning.
This improves employee engagement and accessibility to the learning experience. You can also use microlearning to enhance standard classroom training by allowing employees to review and reinforce what they have learned.

Conclusion

Overall, microlearning is a versatile and successful strategy for teaching and learning that can assist learners in acquiring new knowledge and skills in an easy-to-understand and retain format. It enables learners to concentrate on specific topics. In addition, you may present it in various formats, making it accessible and exciting for learners with varying needs, situations, and preferences.

Bibliography

Last updated on 26 Jan 2023.

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