MicroLearning

Micro-Learning? Yes-please!

There are few definitions of microlearning floating out there in the ether, but I think this wiki page (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microlearning) sums it up pretty nicely. Simply: microlearning deals with relatively small learning units and short-term learning activities. Simple and succinct, but there’s more. What stands out about the longer definition is connecting microlearning to a process in mediated environments. What? Think of the process as the learning process and microlearning just is a way to take baby-steps (each step should be a different aspect of the greater learning) to the ultimate goal for the delivered information. The mediated environment is HOW that learning is delivered. Online, in-class, printed material, or blended. All are great options, but we’re big fans of asynchronous, online mediation enhanced with performance support tools (more on that in another post). Asha Pandey explains it beautifully in this online post (eLearning Industry: https://elearningindustry.com/enhance-employee-performance-microlearning-drive).“While microlearning is not a new concept, it is suddenly being talked about as the next significant approach to train workforce. Although chunking content into short bytes has existed for a long time, we are seeing an increased focus on microlearning as a fairly significant part of an organization’s overall training delivery.” 

In the fast-paced business world learning options should reflect that environment. The following will help you set a solid foundation for effortless, yet effective workplace e-learning.

·      Make it timely, but NOT time consuming

·      Small, simple content. Narrow focus

·      Thoughtfully situated/integrated mediums

·      Make it actionable and reflective

Mediums to deliver content should also align with the audience & work performed. Consider using:

·      Short video clips

·      Flashcards/Infographics

·      Sorting by chronology or importance

·      Answering an engaging quiz

·      Use micro-gamming

Microlearning is an effective way to share information. It’s effective in how it’s delivered, but it’s also effective in the impact it has. Make it memorable and sticky without being looked at as burdensome or just another “box to check” to get through the day.  .