What is Microlearning? Benefits, Best Practices and More

October 10, 2024

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Written by UJJI Team

About 2,500 years ago, the Greek philosopher Heraclitus said, "There’s nothing permanent except change." This idea still rings true, especially in the fast-changing world of training and upskilling within organizations.

Today, employees face heavy workloads, shorter attention spans, and limited time for traditional training. This is where microlearning comes in.

Microlearning is a technology-driven training method that is gaining popularity across various industries. This self-service approach allows learners to engage with content at their own pace.

The microlearning market is expected to grow significantly, with a projected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 18.02% from 2024 to 2032. By 2032, the market is set to reach a multimillion-dollar valuation, showing a considerable increase from 2023.

This trend towards shorter, bite-sized content reflects the increasing demand for more efficient and engaging learning experiences.

If you’re new to microlearning, this guide will help you understand it. It covers what microlearning is, its benefits, best practices, and more.

What is Microlearning?

Microlearning is a teaching method that delivers content in small, easy-to-digest chunks. It is based on the Hermann Ebbinghaus forgetting curve, which shows that learners forget much of what they learn over time.

By breaking content into bite-sized pieces, microlearning helps improve knowledge retention.

Microlearning sessions usually last less than ten minutes, with some as short as one minute. This makes it perfect for busy employees who have little time for traditional training.

Key Features of Microlearning

By breaking down content into bite-sized pieces, microlearning aims to combat this forgetting phenomenon and enhance knowledge retention.

  • Duration: Microlearning sessions are typically under ten minutes, with some pathways taking as little as one minute to complete.
  • Accessibility: This format is particularly beneficial for busy employees who may find it challenging to allocate time for traditional training methods.

Benefits of Microlearning

Microlearning is quickly gaining popularity as a training methodology because it offers several undeniable benefits. Let’s take a look at what these benefits are. 

Benefits of microlearning

Time Efficiency 

Microlearning allows employees to learn new skills or information in a fraction of the time required by traditional training methods. With short, focused sessions, learners can fit microlearning into their busy schedules without disrupting their workflow. Sessions typically last 3 to 7 minutes, aligning with the average attention span and allowing for learning during short breaks or commutes.

Increased Engagement

Shorter learning sessions are more likely to keep learners engaged and focused. By presenting information in small, easily digestible chunks, microlearning caters to the modern learner's preference for shorter, more interactive content.

Improved Knowledge Retention 

The repetitive nature of microlearning reinforces learning and improves knowledge retention. By revisiting information over time, learners can better retain and recall important concepts.

According to Dresden University, microlearning enhances information retention by 22% compared to standard learning methods. This highlights its effectiveness in helping learners remember content.

Shorter learning sessions are more likely to keep learners engaged and focused. By presenting information in small, easily digestible chunks, microlearning caters to the modern learner's preference for shorter, more interactive content.

This method, which delivers bite-sized training, has achieved a remarkable 75% increase in engagement rates over traditional training approaches. Microlearning is particularly well-suited for today’s digital environment, where attention spans are shorter, enabling employees to grasp information more readily.

Mobile Accessibility 

Microlearning is compatible with mobile devices, allowing learners to access training materials anytime, anywhere. This flexibility enables on-the-go learning, making it convenient for employees to engage with content whenever it suits them.

Self-Paced Learning

Microlearning accommodates different learning styles and paces, allowing employees to learn at their own speed. Whether they need to review a certain concept multiple times or breeze through content quickly, microlearning caters to individual preferences.

Personalized Learning

Microlearning content can be tailored to meet the specific needs and interests of individual learners. By focusing on relevant topics and skills, organizations can deliver more personalized learning experiences that resonate with employees.

Examples of Microlearning

Let’s now take a look at examples of microlearning, which, when incorporated into training programs, can help organizations create engaging and effective learning experiences, designed to cater to specific learning needs. 

Microcopy

Microcopy refers to concise and targeted messages strategically placed within an interface to guide users and aid their learning process. These messages are designed to provide instant assistance, clarification, or direction, enhancing the user experience and facilitating learning in the context of a specific task or interaction.

Examples of microcopy in action include:

  • Error messages: Brief explanations that help users understand why an action failed and how to correct it.
  • Tooltips: Short descriptions or hints that appear when users hover over or interact with specific elements, providing additional information or guidance.
  • Call-to-action buttons: Clear and persuasive phrases that prompt users to take a specific action, such as "Sign Up Now" or "Learn More."
  • Form field labels: Concise labels or placeholders that clarify the purpose of each input field in a form, guiding users as they provide information.

By leveraging microcopy effectively, organizations can streamline user interactions, reduce confusion, and support learning in real-time, ultimately improving user engagement and satisfaction.

Microlearning Videos

Microlearning videos are short, focused video clips that deliver specific learning outcomes in a brief and easily digestible format. These videos typically range from a few seconds to a few minutes in length and are designed to convey key information or concepts quickly and efficiently.

Examples of microlearning videos include:

  • Explainer videos: Short animations or screencasts that illustrate complex topics or processes in a simple and engaging manner.
  • Brief and interactive videos: Interactive video modules that allow learners to actively participate in the learning process by answering questions or making decisions.
  • Micro-lectures: Condensed lectures or presentations that cover a single topic or concept in-depth, providing learners with valuable insights in a short amount of time.
  • Whiteboard animations: Animated videos that use a whiteboard or similar visual metaphor to explain ideas or concepts through illustrations and narration.
  • Kinetic text-based animations: Animated videos that use dynamic typography and motion graphics to convey information in a visually engaging way.

By incorporating microlearning videos into their training programs, organizations can captivate learners' attention, simplify complex concepts, and enhance knowledge retention through visual and auditory stimuli.

Microlearning Apps

Microlearning apps are mobile applications specifically designed to deliver bite-sized lessons and learning resources to users on-the-go. These apps offer convenient access to educational content anytime, anywhere, allowing learners to engage with short, focused lessons whenever they have a few minutes to spare.

Examples of microlearning apps include:

  • Language learning apps: Apps like Duolingo or Babbel that offer short language lessons and exercises to help users learn vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
  • Skill-building apps: Apps like Khan Academy or Coursera that provide short courses and tutorials on a wide range of subjects, from coding and design to business and finance.
  • Quiz and flashcard apps: Apps like Quizlet or Anki that offer quick quizzes and flashcards to help users review and reinforce their knowledge on various topics.
  • Micro-challenges and games: Gamified learning experiences that engage and motivate learners through interactive quizzes, challenges, and rewards.

By leveraging microlearning apps, organizations can empower learners to take control of their own learning journey, providing them with convenient access to educational resources that fit seamlessly into their busy lives.

Micro-Challenges and Games

Micro-challenges and games are gamified learning experiences designed to engage and motivate learners through interactive quizzes, challenges, and rewards. These activities encourage active participation and provide learners with immediate feedback, making the learning process more enjoyable and effective.

Examples of micro-challenges and games include:

  • Multiple question quizzes: Short quizzes that test learners' knowledge on specific topics or concepts, providing instant feedback on their performance.
  • Polls and surveys: Interactive polls and surveys that encourage learners to share their opinions and insights on relevant issues, fostering engagement and collaboration.
  • Flashcard exercises: Digital flashcards that help learners review and reinforce key information through repetition and practice.
  • Simulations and scenarios: Interactive simulations and scenarios that simulate real-world situations and challenges, allowing learners to apply their knowledge and skills in a risk-free environment.
  • Learner recordings: Activities that require learners to record themselves answering questions or explaining concepts, promoting active learning and self-assessment.

By incorporating micro-challenges and games into their training programs, organizations can enhance learner engagement, motivation, and retention, ultimately driving better learning outcomes.

Infographics

Infographics are visual representations of information, data, or knowledge designed to communicate complex ideas quickly and clearly. These visual aids use a combination of text, graphics, and illustrations to present information in a visually appealing and easy-to-understand format.

Examples of infographics in microlearning include:

  • Statistical infographics: Infographics that present statistical data and trends in a visually compelling manner, making complex information more accessible and engaging.
  • Process infographics: Infographics that illustrate step-by-step processes or workflows, helping learners understand complex concepts or procedures more easily.
  • Comparison infographics: Infographics that compare and contrast different options, products, or ideas, allowing learners to make informed decisions and draw meaningful conclusions.
  • Hierarchical infographics: Infographics that visually represent hierarchical relationships or structures, such as organizational charts or classification schemes, facilitating understanding and comprehension.

By incorporating infographics into their training materials, organizations can enhance visual literacy, improve information retention, and make learning more engaging and accessible for learners of all backgrounds and learning styles.

Social Media

Social media platforms can serve as valuable channels for delivering microlearning content and fostering informal learning experiences. By sharing short, focused learning nuggets on platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Reddit, organizations can engage learners and encourage knowledge sharing and collaboration in a social setting.

Examples of microlearning on social media include:

  • 140-character snippets of news and updates shared on Twitter, providing quick and concise insights into relevant topics or trends.
  • Educational posts and articles are shared on LinkedIn, offering valuable tips, resources, and insights to help learners stay informed and up-to-date in their field.
  • Discussion threads and forums on platforms like Reddit, where learners can ask questions, share ideas, and engage in meaningful conversations with peers and experts.

By leveraging social media for microlearning, organizations can tap into the power of social networks to connect learners, facilitate knowledge exchange, and create a vibrant learning community that extends beyond the barriers of traditional training programs.

Microlearning Best Practices

Finally, here are some microlearning best practices that ought to make implementing this revolutionary training methodology easier. 

Microlearning Best Practices

Define Suitability

Determining when microlearning is appropriate for your training needs involves considering several factors.

  • Complexity of the subject matter: Microlearning works best for topics that can be broken down into smaller, more manageable chunks of information. Complex subjects may require a more in-depth approach.
  • Time constraints: Microlearning is ideal for learners who have limited time available for training or prefer shorter, more flexible learning sessions.
  • Learner preferences: Some learners may prefer the convenience and accessibility of microlearning, while others may prefer more traditional forms of training.
  • Training objectives: Microlearning is well-suited for reinforcing knowledge, providing quick tips or reminders, and supporting ongoing learning initiatives.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can determine whether microlearning is the right approach for your training needs and goals.

Repurpose Existing Content

Repurposing existing training materials is a cost-effective way to create microlearning content. By breaking down longer courses, presentations, or documents into smaller segments, you can leverage existing resources to create bite-sized learning experiences.

  • Identify key concepts: Review your existing training materials and identify the most important concepts or information that can be presented as standalone microlearning modules.
  • Segment content: Divide the content into smaller, more focused segments that can be delivered independently.
  • Enhance engagement: Add interactive elements, such as quizzes or activities, to make the microlearning modules more engaging and interactive.
  • Optimize for mobile: Ensure that the microlearning content is optimized for mobile devices, allowing learners to access it anytime, anywhere.

By repurposing existing content for microlearning, you can maximize the value of your training materials and provide learners with convenient and accessible learning experiences.

Incorporate Gamification

Gamification can enhance engagement and motivation in microlearning courses by adding game elements such as challenges, rewards, and competition.

  • Set clear objectives: Define the learning objectives and desired outcomes for your microlearning courses.
  • Choose appropriate game elements: Select game elements that align with your learning objectives and engage learners in meaningful ways.
  • Provide feedback: Offer feedback and rewards to encourage progress and motivate learners to complete the microlearning activities.
  • Track progress: Use gamification metrics to track learner progress and identify areas for improvement.

By incorporating gamification into your microlearning courses, you can make learning more fun and engaging, ultimately improving knowledge retention and learning outcomes.

Utilize Interactive Assets

Interactive assets, such as videos, quizzes and simulations, can enhance learning by providing learners with opportunities to actively engage with the content.

  • Create engaging videos: Produce short, focused videos that deliver key concepts or demonstrate specific tasks in an engaging and visually appealing way.
  • Design interactive quizzes: Develop quizzes or assessments that allow learners to test their knowledge and receive immediate feedback on their performance.
  • Incorporate simulations: Use simulations or interactive scenarios to simulate real-world situations and allow learners to practice skills in a risk-free environment.
  • Provide hands-on activities: Offer hands-on activities or exercises that encourage learners to apply their knowledge and skills in practical ways.

By incorporating interactive assets into your microlearning courses, you can create dynamic and engaging learning experiences that cater to diverse learning styles and preferences.

Ensure Accessibility

Ensuring that microlearning content is accessible on all devices is essential to accommodate learners' preferences and ensure that they can access the training materials anytime, anywhere.

  • Use responsive design: Design microlearning content using responsive design principles to ensure that it displays correctly on a variety of devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
  • Provide multiple access options: Offer multiple access options, such as web-based platforms, mobile apps, and downloadable resources, to accommodate learners' preferences and accessibility needs.
  • Test for compatibility: Test the microlearning content on different devices and browsers to ensure compatibility and usability across various platforms.
  • Provide support: Offer technical support and guidance to learners to help them troubleshoot any issues or challenges they encounter when accessing the microlearning content.

By ensuring that microlearning content is accessible on all devices, you can provide learners with a seamless and convenient learning experience that fits their individual needs and preferences.

Encourage Social and Collaborative Learning

Fostering discussion and knowledge sharing among learners can enhance the effectiveness of microlearning courses by providing opportunities for peer learning and collaboration.

  • Create online communities: Establish online forums, discussion groups, or social media channels where learners can connect with their peers, ask questions, and share insights and experiences.
  • Encourage collaboration: Incorporate collaborative activities or projects into your microlearning courses that require learners to work together to solve problems or complete tasks.
  • Provide opportunities for feedback: Offer opportunities for learners to provide feedback on each other's work and offer constructive criticism and support.
  • Recognize and reward participation: Recognize and reward learners who actively participate in social and collaborative learning activities, such as by highlighting their contributions or awarding badges or certificates.

By encouraging social and collaborative learning, you can create a supportive and engaging learning community that enhances the learning experience and fosters continuous improvement and growth.

Embrace the Power of Microlearning With UJJI

Irrespective of whether you’re a start-up or a large enterprise with thousands of employees, training and upskilling are always going to be essential functions in your organization. And microlearning is, without a doubt, among the most efficient and cost-effective approaches to achieving your organisational training goals. 

We at UJJI realize the potential of microlearning, and have been helping businesses embrace its power for more than 4 years now.

Our expertise lies in transforming training modules by using the power of AI to create gamified, easy to self-consume microlearning pathways. We could easily convert your existing training modules or create brand new training pathways using the same approach. 

The creation of microlearning pathways is not limited by subject matter, so rest assured that we can create these gamified, AI-powered training solutions for you irrespective of your industry. 

Since our microlearning pathways are interactive and easy-to-self-consume, you will find that your staff can upskill themselves without active mentoring and without wasting precious time during your most productive hours. 

The creation of these pathways is also not necessarily a recurring cost, making it cost effective as well. 

Want to learn how you can join UJJI’s growing family of satisfied clients? Book a meeting with our team today!

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