In today’s fast-paced world, we live in a constant scarcity of time, and it’s impossible to squeeze in one more task or activity in a jam-packed week. Hence, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to dedicate extended periods to learning and development. That’s where microlearning comes in – a modern approach to learning that breaks down complex topics into bite-sized chunks of information. In this article, we’ll explore microlearning, the benefits, the best examples, and practices ready to apply. You will also learn how to employ an LMS for more efficient microlearning.   

What is microlearning?

Microlearning is an innovative approach to learning and development that delivers bite-sized chunks of information in a short amount of time. It’s designed to be concise and easy to understand, making it ideal for busy professionals who want to upskill without investing significant time. Microlearning can take various forms, including videos, podcasts, infographics, quizzes, and more. Its main aim is to break down complex topics into small, digestible modules, making learning more accessible and efficient.

Benefits of microlearning

There are several benefits to using microlearning as a learning and development tool. First, it offers a more flexible, cost-effective, and personalized approach to learning and development, making it an attractive option for organizations looking to upskill their employees efficiently. We have listed the most important ones; here they are:

  • Cost-effective: Microlearning modules are usually shorter and require fewer resources, making them more cost-effective to develop and implement than traditional learning and development programs.
  • Flexible: Microlearning is accessible and can be completed at learners’ convenience and on any device, making it more flexible than traditional learning methods.
  • Easier to retain information: Microlearning presents information in small, digestible chunks, making it easier for learners to retain and apply information to their work.
  • Encourages continuous learning: Microlearning encourages a culture of continuous learning, allowing learners to upskill and stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments.
  • Personalized learning: Microlearning modules can be tailored to individual learners’ needs, ensuring they receive the required training and information.
  • Higher engagement: Interactive formats, such as quizzes, games, and simulations, can increase learner engagement and motivation.
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Examples of microlearning

There are many microlearning examples that you may already be familiar with. For instance, TED Talks, YouTube videos, and podcasts are all forms of microlearning. Online courses that offer bite-sized modules and quizzes are another example. Microlearning can take various forms and can be customized to meet the specific learning needs of different organizations and learners; here are the most popular and effective microlearning examples to be used: 

  • Short videos: Short, engaging videos lasting anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes can be used to teach new skills or knowledge. These videos can be accessed on-demand via a learning management system (LMS) or other platforms.
  • Infographics: Visuals like infographics can quickly and memorably convey key information. They are ideal for summarizing complex topics in a concise format.
  • Interactive quizzes: Interactive quizzes and assessments can test knowledge and reinforce learning. They can be created quickly and easily using various online tools.
  • Bite-sized articles: Short articles or blog posts focusing on a specific topic or skill can be easily read and absorbed in a few minutes.
  • Podcasts: Audio-based learning can be effective for learners who prefer to learn on the go. Short podcasts, lasting from a few minutes to 30 minutes, can provide information on a specific topic or skill.
  • Simulations and scenarios: Simulations and scenarios can teach practical skills in a safe environment, allowing learners to practice and improve their skills without risking real-world consequences.

Best practices for microlearning

You should consider several best practices to ensure that your microlearning program is effective. Some general rules include keeping it short and simple, ensuring the content is relevant and contextual to your learners, using interactive formats such as quizzes or simulations, tracking learner progress, and offering continuous feedback to improve their learning outcomes. You may apply those practices with the use of an LMS. Here are some best applications for microlearning using a learning platform:

  • Focus on learning outcomes: Start by defining the learning outcomes you want to achieve with each microlearning module. This will help you create relevant, focused content that aligns with your learning objectives.
  • Keep it short and simple: Microlearning should be concise, engaging, and easy to digest. Keep each module focused on a single topic or skill and limit its duration to no more than five minutes.
  • Make it interactive: Use interactive elements such as quizzes, gamification, and simulations to increase engagement and promote active learning.
  • Ensure accessibility: Ensure that microlearning content is accessible on any device and location so learners can access it and fit learning into their busy schedules.
  • Personalize learning: Use data from your LMS to personalize the learning experience and deliver targeted content to individual learners based on their learning needs, preferences, and progress.
  • Measure and evaluate: Use analytics and reporting tools within your LMS to track learners’ progress, measure their engagement, and evaluate the effectiveness of your microlearning modules. Use this data to improve and refine your learning and development programs continuously.

Using LMS for microlearning

Learning management systems can help organizations deliver microlearning in a structured and organized manner. An LMS can host all your microlearning modules, track learner progress, and offer personalized learning paths. It also provides analytics and reporting to help you monitor the effectiveness of your microlearning program and improve it continually.

Learning management systems can benefit your microlearning in several ways:

  • Centralized management: LMS provides a centralized platform for creating, managing, and distributing microlearning content. This makes it easier to create and distribute content, track progress, and measure the effectiveness of your microlearning modules.
  • Analytics and reporting: LMS provides powerful analytics and reporting tools that enable you to track learner progress, measure engagement, and evaluate the effectiveness of your microlearning modules. This data can help you identify knowledge gaps, refine your content, and optimize your microlearning program.
  • Mobile learning: Most modern LMS platforms are mobile-friendly, enabling learners to access microlearning content on the go, anytime, and from any device. This makes it easier for learners to fit learning into their busy schedules.
  • Collaboration and social learning: LMS can enable collaboration and social learning by providing features like discussion forums, chat, and peer-to-peer feedback. This creates a sense of community and allows learners to share knowledge and expertise.

Enable efficient microlearning with the right LMS

Microlearning is an effective and efficient learning and development approach that can benefit organizations significantly. By using best practices and leveraging LMS technology, organizations can offer their employees a continuous learning experience that’s tailored to their specific needs and schedules. In addition, an e-learning tool, such as Samelane, can help you create a more effective microlearning program by providing a centralized platform for managing and distributing content, personalizing the learning experience, tracking progress, and measuring outcomes.