Microlearning: Making the Case for “Bite-Size” Training
A growing trend in the eLearning space, microlearning has gained popularity in recent years as part of many organization’s overall training strategy.
According to Training Industry, microlearning is defined as “training content delivered in “bite-sized” pieces, or short, specific bursts…used in isolation or as part of a series of microlearning content to teach a skill or behavior.” Employed as a means to deploy training content with agility while addressing discrete topics, microlearning can be offered “on demand” and targeted to a specific training point, scenario, issue or even an audience.
Some who deploy microlearning utilize it to support a “just-in-time” training approach, while others use it to build upon previously shared material or create a comprehensive series. Whatever your approach, remember that although microlearning is designed to be “bite-sized” and easily accessible, “micro” should not mean slapdash or hastily put together. As with any other training material, the focus should be on quality, clearly defined learning objectives and key takeaways, not speed of development or even expedient user completion. Retention is the key.
Also keep in mind that microlearning does not need to be presented in the “standard” course format. Microlearning can be designed for just about any form of delivery - game, video, interactive PDF, compliance minute or podcast. So long as the training teaches a skill or addresses a behavior AND is “short” it can be considered microlearning.
How long is short for microlearning? Well, general best practice is 10 minutes or less. Others might suggest you consider the attention span of your learners. Curious to explore the science behind this, I would encourage reading up on the “Forgetting Curve.”
So, next time you sit down to create training, rethink your approach, and consider could this be a microlearning? You might just find the answer is yes!
Senior Director II, Compliance Training, TRACE
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