Does Micro Learning Make You Micro Smart?

The big trend in adult learning is micro learning. 

Small, very focused bursts of knowledge usually supported by video. I love the concept but the term implies that it is somehow less then “real” learning and it’s not.  From my experience working with authors, speakers and thought leaders from around the globe, micro learning produces macro results. If you haven’t experimented with or converted any of your work into micro learning here’s why you should:

• It’s not a fad.
• It’s not going away
• It’s what the buyer wants (the enterprise)
• It’s what the learner wants (think millennials)
• It works
• It’s cost effective
• It allows you to be agile and flexible
• It show’s that you are relevant and contemporary

I could add many other reasons to the list but what I find is that when I’m talking to my clients they often have some resistance to the concept. Here’s what I hear and have observed first hand.

• I don’t understand how it works
• It’s different then what I’m used to
• It’s not how I learned or am comfortable learning
• There are technology issues that I don’t understand
• I wouldn’t know where to start
• What pieces of my content would best fit in a micro learning format?
• My work is to complex to teach this way
• Who buys it?
• How do I market and sell it?

All of these are valid concerns however the market has spoken. It wants to see more and more state of the art content offered in state of the art formats. When the market speaks I tend to listen and I recommend to my clients that they do as well. If you’re work isn’t available in the formats the buyer is looking for you’ll miss out on opportunity, revenue and the ability to have your work impact more people in more ways. As a thought leader you are largely driven by your unique ability to create impactful content that makes a positive difference in the world. Micro learning is an effective vehicle to help you achieve that very noble objective. Embrace it!