Ask an Expert – I would like to deploy training to reinforce key compliance concepts, but I’m a team of one with a limited budget and course library. What can I do to get more from less?

Creating and maintaining a compliance training library can be an arduous task whether you have a team of one or one hundred! It’s not always easy to obtain resources in support of compliance efforts (a conversation for another day!) whether that’s human resources, access to software or budget. But, all hope is not lost! You CAN effectively build out a compliance training library even if you only have one course to start. Furthermore, breaking up a longer e-learning course into microlearning modules can greatly enhance learner engagement and knowledge retention.

Here are a few best practices you can employ to truncate and restructure one full length training into microlearning:

1. Identify Learning Objectives: Begin by revisiting the learning objectives identified for the original full length course. These objectives will guide the creation of your microlearning modules.

2. Chunking Content: Divide the course content into smaller, manageable sections. Each section should ideally cover one specific topic or concept that tracks back to your learning objectives.

3. Focus on Single Learning Points: Each microlearning module should focus on a single learning point or objective. Sticking to one point/objective will ensure the content remains focused and thus prevents cognitive overload.

4. Keep it Short: Aim for short durations, typically between 5 to 15 minutes per microlearning module. This length is optimal for maintaining learner engagement and attention.

5. Use Multimedia Elements: Incorporate a variety of multimedia elements such as videos, interactive quizzes, infographics, and simulations to make the content more engaging and cater to different learning styles.

6. Utilize a Learning Path: If deploying all at once, be sure to arrange microlearning modules in a logical sequence to ensure that they build upon each other progressively. This helps learners grasp complex concepts more effectively.

7. Promote Interactivity: Include interactive elements within each module to encourage active participation and reinforce learning. This could include quizzes, scenarios, discussions, or reflective exercises.

8. Assessment and Feedback: Integrate assessments or quizzes at the end of each microlearning module to gauge learner comprehension. Provide immediate feedback to reinforce learning outcomes.

9. Mobile Compatibility: Ensure all microlearning modules are accessible via multiple devices, including smartphones and tablets, to accommodate learners who prefer mobile learning.

10. Encourage Application: Include practical examples, case studies, or real-life scenarios within each module to illustrate how the learning can be applied in the real world.

By following these best practices, you can effectively break up a long eLearning course into microlearning modules that are engaging, digestible, and conducive to effective learning outcomes.

Mike Koronkiewicz

Manager, Compliance eLearning Development, TRACE

This post is part of our “Ask an Expert” series where we take questions submitted by readers and ask an expert in the compliance field to provide insight. If you have a question you would like answered, please submit here.