Microlearning is one of the most effective e-learning approaches because of the trends for more flexible learning. It meets the contemporary learner’s thirst for efficiency by enabling them to take learning in bits and pieces. Microlearning has greatly influenced the effectiveness and learners’ attendance in training, education, and skills acquisition.
However, developing successful microlearning modules that will have an impact may not be that simple. This blog explains the idea of microlearning, how to create them, problems that arise, and solutions.
What are Microlearning Modules?
Microlearning is a model of learning that is normally brief and often takes 3 to 10 minutes on average. They are effective in accomplishing specific learning goals; and are presented in digital formats through smartphones and other gadgets, computers, as well as social networks. These dedicated microlearning solutions are different from the standard learning modules as these offer learning in short sessions.
The use of microlearning is prominent in different training and learning programs. It ensures that learners and employees do not get stressed in long-form content. It helps the learners in engaging content without wasting their time and resources. The employees, on the other hand, get the advantage of upskilling themselves without struggling with the daily responsibilities schedule.
Microlearning content can take many forms, including:
- Videos: Short presentations or animation videos.
- Quizzes: Self-check quizzes that enhance knowledge and understanding.
- Infographics: Illustrations of the structure and relations of ideas.
- Podcasts: Bite-sized audio lessons.
- Games: Joyful practice sessions formulated in the form of a game.
Strategies to Apply When Designing Facets of Microlearning Modules
Ideally, the authors of microcontent should aim for a reasonable amount of detail: not too complex, nor oversimplified. The following best practices will help direct the process of microlearning modules:
- Define Clear Objectives
Begin by defining special and verifiable learning objectives. Ideally, a microlearning module should pertain to one major learning issue, to retain the significance of the information being provided. Do not attempt to load different concepts within one teaching module. It is crucial to align the microlearning goals with the overall training and learning goals of the organization.
- Keep It Short and Concise
The main characteristic of microlearning solutions is that it applies micro-content. Make sure your module contains significant information and lasts 5 to 10 minutes. In this case, the points should be as small as possible and highlighted enough for everyone to see. It keeps the essence of microlearning safe and precise.
- Prioritize Learner Engagement
Active elements like drag-and-drop exercises, brief tests, or clickable visuals with various portions can be added. Student engagement can also be raised via leaderboards, badges, and points. It helps trainers in prioritizing the learner engagement over the complex topics.
- Accessible by Mobile Devices
Microlearning is often consumed via mobile devices, optimizing your modules for convenient usage. Make designs simple and aesthetically clean and design files so that they are not very large and take time to load.
- Benefit from Visuals and Multimedia
Even when the content is a video, the comprehension of the information is better. Employ good pictures, animations, and videos to explain ideas that may seem hard to follow. Do not give learners too much text to go through as it may create confusion.
- Emphasis on Solution Ideas
Cite examples that make your content realistic and can easily be applied to practice in the microlearning solutions. In the case of conflict resolution, for instance, if you are designing a module, ensure that it has role-playing or at least cases.
- Test and Iterate
The author of a module should pilot it with several learners to gain feedback. To assess how they interact and how much of it they comprehend to enhance the material according to the situation.
- Anticipate Reinforcement Mechanisms
For long-term storage, expend follow-up quizzes or rapid check quizzes. Spaced repetition techniques can teach people a certain set of ideas over an extended period.
- Ensure Accessibility
WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) guidelines should be followed while designing with accessibility in mind. This includes audio and video transcripts, video captions, and other screen reader-compliant features.
Challenges of Building Microlearning Modules
Despite its advantages, developing microlearning modules can present some challenges:
- Oversimplification
The difficulty here is that in a desire to get to the point quickly, important information can be overly generalized. This may result in a lack of context or a half-baked understanding of what is being said.
- Development Costs
Micro-learning modules are usually brief, but they might require a lot of resources to create something exceptional, such as graphics, animations, or a game.
- Limited Depth
Microlearning is important for precise teaching-learning activities or specific subjects, but not suitable for extensive or analytical learning topics.
Ending Notes
Microlearning modules provide effective and precisely useful solutions for learners. However, they are only optimally effective if properly conceptualized and implemented. It can be done by adhering to the best practices like defining objectives, using multimedia, mobile apps & much more.
There are always some drawbacks, such as oversimplification or high development costs. With careful preparation and consideration for the intended audience’s reaction, one may always steer clear of problems. Lastly, “micro” refers to “wiser” lessons rather than “smaller” ones. Teachers and organizations can deliver information to students and accomplish worthwhile outcomes by following its rules.
