Microlearning: Bite-sized wisdom for short attention spans and big learning gains

In a world where attention spans are shrinking faster than a melting ice cream cone on a scorching day, traditional learning methods can feel overwhelming and time-consuming. But fear not! There's a revolutionary approach that caters to our bite-sized cravings while delivering powerful learning outcomes. It's called microlearning.?

We had the opportunity to sit down with Radhika Mokashi-Kotnis , Architect - Instructional Design, and Michelle Fernandes , Senior Manager, Learning Content Solutions- Business Integration Group, to explore the ins and outs of creating microlearning content that is both engaging and effective. In this article, we bring you a few nuggets of their wisdom.

"Learning is like eating a burger, you can't take a massive bite and expect to savour every flavour. It's the small, juicy, bite-sized nuggets that make the experience truly satisfying."

Unpacking the Basics?

Microlearning, as Radhika describes it, is like a series of learning nuggets that focus on one specific learning outcome. It's all about packaging information in small, easily accessible portions. Whether you're a salesperson looking to enhance your customer relations skills or a beginner learning to play the guitar, microlearning provides specific, actionable insights to achieve your desired outcomes. To that Michelle adds: ‘Unlike traditional learning, which often follows a sequential format, microlearning allows for independent, targeted pieces of knowledge that can be consumed in as little as three to seven minutes’.?

“Size doesn't matter, except when it comes to learning”

Microlearning: Pros and Cons?

One might wonder if microlearning’s targeted approach sacrifices the depth and comprehensiveness of traditional learning. However, according to Michelle, that's not the case. Microlearning can cover higher-level concepts and provide a comprehensive learning experience. It's simply broken down into smaller, more manageable nuggets. Microlearning allows for flexibility in content format, including videos, gamification, and scenario-based activities. Additionally, it enables just-in-time learning and easy content updates, making it a versatile and dynamic learning solution.?

"Microlearning is like assembling a puzzle—each piece fits together to create a complete picture, but you can start with whichever piece you want!"

The future of microlearning: A rising star?

Microlearning is far from reaching its peak. As attention spans grow shorter and learners seek quick, relevant information, microlearning is becoming increasingly prevalent. In an era of YouTube shorts and Instagram reels, where even a 20-minute-long learning video feels impractical, microlearning offers a more efficient and effective way to learn. The industry is recognising the value of microlearning, and its prevalence is expected to continue growing.?

"In the world of learning, microlearning is the cool kid on the block—the one with all the viral videos and catchy tunes!"?

Microlearning and shortening attention span: Chicken or egg??

It's natural to wonder if our shrinking attention spans result from microlearning or if microlearning emerged as a response to our diminishing focus. Michelle highlights that while attention spans are getting shorter, we've become accustomed to getting the specific information we need when we need it. Let's take learning guitar as an example. You search online for how to play a specific chord, like the F chord. It's targeted learning, and we've all grown accustomed to this approach. It's not just about shorter attention spans; it's also about teaching people to learn more efficiently. Platforms like YouTube make it easy to find relevant information quickly. So, sitting through a long, elaborate learning session that might not address our immediate needs isn't practical anymore. We've learned to seek out shorter, more targeted learning that hits the bullseye.

"Attention spans are getting shorter, and so are our lessons! But don't worry; we're not sacrificing knowledge; we're just serving it in bite-sized nuggets".

Engaging and effective microlearning: The winning formula

When it comes to microlearning, effectiveness and engagement, go hand in hand. Radhika highlights the importance of aligning the content with the learning objective. Choosing the right delivery method – audio-driven explanations, diagrams, or interactive elements – whatever suits the content best. And of course, don't forget the fun! Adding flavour and relatability to the content makes it more exciting and memorable. Stories, scenarios, questions, and even gamification elements can bring the learning experience to life.

Getting into the nitty gritty of microlearning. What are the small and big things you should know and look out for??

Catering to diverse learners: Design considerations

In a diverse learning landscape, creating microlearning content that appeals to everyone is essential. Design considerations play a vital role in this process. It starts with adhering to accessibility guidelines, ensuring compatibility with different devices and abilities. Language should be inclusive, avoiding stereotypes and using simple verbiage for easy comprehension. Translations may be necessary to reach a global audience. Additionally, recognising different learning styles and incorporating culturally sensitive examples creates a welcoming environment.

"Learning is like a fast food drive-thru—quick, convenient, and tailored to your craving!"

Assessments and evaluations: The pulse of microlearning

Assessments and evaluations are key components of any learning program, including microlearning. They provide insights into learners' understanding and help measure the program's success. Microlearning allows for flexibility in incorporating assessments. Knowledge checks within smaller nuggets, scenario-based assessments, and summative assessments at the end of the course all contribute to effective evaluation. Gathering feedback from learners and stakeholders also helps improve the content and ensure its relevance.

Updating and maintaining microlearning content

According to Radhika, microlearning, like any other learning content, requires periodic updates and maintenance. The choice of tools and formats can significantly impact this process. Tools like Articulate Rise or Storyline offer different levels of editability and ease of updates. Determining the frequency of reviews depends on the nature of the content and any anticipated changes. Regular checks, analytics from the Learning Management System (LMS), and feedback from learners all contribute to keeping microlearning content up-to-date and effective.

Harnessing data and analytics for continuous improvement

Data and analytics play a crucial role in continuous improvement in microlearning. By collecting and analysing data on learner engagement, completion rates, assessment scores, and feedback, instructional designers can gain insights into the effectiveness of the microlearning content. Analytics can help identify areas where learners may struggle or lose interest, allowing for targeted improvements. For example, if learners constantly struggle with a particular concept or module, it may indicate the need for content revision or additional support materials.

Walking on the microlearning path…

Our client, a global humanitarian agency fighting hunger, understood the critical role of advocacy in achieving their goals. To equip their teams with the necessary skills, they sought a digital training solution from DelphianLogic. Recognising the importance of an effective learning approach, we chose microlearning as the key strategy.

By breaking down the content into bite-sized nuggets, we ensured that each piece delivered a specific learning objective. We engaged learners through captivating animated videos, insightful employee interviews, interactive quizzes, and more. We made the training memorable. The microlearning approach allowed teams to deeply understand advocacy, develop impactful strategies, craft compelling messages, and establish valuable partnerships.

Now armed with these new skills, our client's team has become a force for change, actively driving progress in the fight against hunger. Microlearning has proven to be the perfect recipe for empowering advocates within the organisation and making a lasting impact on their mission.

Would you like to adopt microlearning to your learning strategy? At DelphianLogic, we possess the insight to unlock the subtleties and intricacies of this powerful learning approach. Enabling us to craft; Captivating. Impactful. Bespoke learning experiences. Let's talk and embark on an extraordinary journey of knowledge.