The benefits and limitations of microlearning
More than just a fad, microlearning is a method of focused knowledge-building that helps learners fill skill gaps on the go.
What is mircolearning?
The simplest definition of microlearning is a skill-based learning approach that delivers small bites of information in 3- to 6-minute lessons.
This type of learning is focused on specific skills and competencies that can be broken down into its most essential parts, and teaching those to a learner. By giving learners small ‘bites’ of content, microlearning frameworks enable students to access information quickly and easily. Which is why it’s great for learning on the move.
Microlearning is typically done on a mobile device, like a smartphone, where a learner engages with various forms of content to learn about a particular topic. Microlearning content includes:
- Text (words, phrases, sentences)
- Images (photos, infographics, illustrations)
- Video clips
- Audio (snippets of speech or music)
- Games
- Tests
- Quizzes
What are the benefits of microlearning?
Everything about microlearning is quicker and smarter than traditional long-form learning. Because you focus on small bites of information, you’re better able to comprehend what you’re learning and easily retain facts.
The interactive interface engages learners and encourages them to stick to the programme. You’re more likely to return to the course when you’re rewarded for completing tasks and shown your progress. Another advantage of the mobile-first approach is that users can receive push notifications, reminding them to complete lessons at regular intervals.
Microlearning is also great for on-the-go learning and allows you to quickly fill knowledge or skills gaps. This makes it ideal for modern learners who have limited time to spend on training and development.
What are the limitations of microlearning?
While microlearning is great for getting across short, to-the-point information, it isn’t ideal for in-depth training on complex concepts. As microlearning gives you a high-level view of a subject, it’s better suited to skills and ideas that can stand alone as well as be understood in context.
What skills can I develop through microlearning?
There are endless possibilities to the skills you can learn through microlearning. A few of the most common categories for microlearning are:
- Customer service
- Vocabulary and grammar
- Sales
- Product knowledge
- Listening skills
- Software training
With its fast pace, engaging interface and effective instruction methods, microlearning is a great tool for knowledge-building in the modern age. It’s an effective solution for short-term learning that can also support longer e-learning courses and even traditional face-to-face instruction.
While it might not be a one-size-fits-all solution, microlearning is certainly a great answer to narrowing the skills gap in the modern workplace.
