Microlearning has gained popularity in recent years due to its effectiveness in employee training. It offers several benefits that can enhance learning outcomes and overall employee development. In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of using microlearning for employee training.
What is microlearning?
Microlearning is an approach to learning and training that involves delivering information in small, bite-sized units or modules from a few minutes to around 10 minutes in duration. The distinguishing feature of microlearning is its brevity and focused nature. It focuses on delivering specific and targeted content in a concise and easily digestible format. The content is often delivered in various formats, such as videos, interactive presentations, quizzes, infographics, podcasts, or short articles.
The principles of microlearning
In short, the principles of microlearning can be summarized as follows:
- Bite-sized: Microlearning breaks down content into small, focused modules that are easily digestible and can be completed within a short timeframe.
- Accessible: Microlearning is designed to be easily accessible to learners anytime and anywhere, often leveraging mobile devices and online platforms.
- Engaging: Microlearning incorporates interactive and multimedia elements to engage learners and enhance their motivation and interest in the content.
- Personalised: Microlearning allows for customisation and personalisation based on individual learner preferences, needs, and job roles.
- Reinforcement: Microlearning utilises spaced repetition and reinforcement techniques to enhance knowledge retention over time.
- Scalable and adaptable: Microlearning can be easily updated, modified, or expanded as needed, making it scalable and adaptable to changing content or training requirements.
With these principles, organisations can create effective microlearning experiences that maximise learning outcomes and engage employees in continuous skill development.
A few examples of microlearning
The below examples demonstrate the versatility of microlearning in delivering targeted and engaging content in various formats.
- Skill demonstration videos: Short videos demonstrating specific skills or tasks can be created and shared with employees.
- Interactive quizzes: These quizzes, developed to test knowledge on specific topics, can be completed in a few minutes and provide immediate feedback to the learners.
- Infographics: Infographics present information in a concise and visually appealing manner, making it easy for learners to grasp and remember.
- Podcast episodes: Employees can listen to these bite-sized podcast episodes during their commutes or breaks, enhancing their knowledge of various subjects.
- Mini simulations: Interactive simulations can be developed to allow employees to practice specific tasks or decision-making scenarios in a controlled environment. These simulations provide hands-on experience and immediate feedback.
By utilising such microlearning approaches, organisations can enhance employee learning experiences and facilitate continuous skill development.
The benefits of microlearning for businesses
Microlearning has various benefits and each of these showcases the value of microlearning as an effective approach for employee training.
- Time-efficient: Microlearning breaks down training content into bite-sized, focused modules that can be consumed in short periods. This makes it easier to fit learning into their busy schedules.
- Engaging and interactive: Microlearning often utilises interactive elements such as videos, quizzes, simulations, and gamification techniques. These elements make the learning process more engaging, enjoyable, and memorable.
- Mobile accessibility: Microlearning is highly compatible with mobile devices and employees can access training modules anytime, anywhere, allowing them to learn at their convenience.
- Cost-effective: Microlearning can be a cost-effective training solution compared to traditional methods. Creating and updating small learning modules is often more efficient and less expensive than developing comprehensive training programmes.
The drawbacks of microlearning
While microlearning offers numerous benefits, it is important to consider its potential drawbacks as well. Here are a few drawbacks:
- Lack of depth: Microlearning modules may provide a limited scope of information. Learners may not gain a comprehensive understanding of complex subjects or topics that require in-depth exploration.
- Fragmented knowledge: The lack of integration between modules may make it challenging for learners to connect and apply the acquired knowledge effectively.
- Limited context: Microlearning modules may not always provide sufficient context or real-world examples. This can make it difficult for learners to understand how to apply the learned concepts or skills in practical situations.
- Potential for superficial learning: Due to the brevity of microlearning modules, there is a risk of surface-level or superficial learning where they complete modules without deeply understanding the underlying principles or concepts.
- Technical limitations: Depending on the delivery platform or technology used, microlearning may have technical limitations. Issues with internet connectivity, compatibility across devices, or access to necessary resources can hinder the effectiveness of microlearning initiatives.
It’s important to address these drawbacks by carefully designing and implementing microlearning programmes that complement broader learning strategies. Combining microlearning with other forms of training can help mitigate some of these limitations and provide a more holistic learning experience.
Best practices for microlearning
To fully experience the benefits of microlearning, there are some best practices to consider in implementation:
- Identify clear learning objectives: Clearly define the learning objectives for each microlearning module. This ensures that the content remains focused and aligned with the desired outcomes.
- Chunk information effectively: Break down content into small, easily digestible units. Keep each module concise and focused on a single topic or skill to maximise learner engagement and retention.
- Leverage multimedia: Utilise a variety of multimedia elements such as videos, interactive quizzes, animations, or infographics to make the learning experience more engaging and effective. Use visuals, audio, and interactive features to enhance understanding and retention.
- Integrate with the learning ecosystem: Integrate microlearning modules with other learning resources and platforms, such as learning management systems (LMS), to create a cohesive and seamless learning experience for employees.
- Evaluate and iterate: Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of microlearning initiatives through learner feedback, assessments, and analytics. Use this feedback to make improvements and iterate on the content and delivery strategies.
By following these best practices, organisations can ensure that their microlearning initiatives are well-designed, engaging, and aligned with the learning needs of their employees.
How can Alison help your employees with learning for free?
Alison offers a wide range of courses and resources for individuals to enhance their knowledge and skills. Here’s how Alison can help your employees with learning for free:
- Extensive course catalogue: Alison has over 4500+ courses covering various subjects, including business, technology, health, languages, and more.
- Free: Employees can enrol in courses without any cost, making it a cost-effective option for organisations seeking to provide learning opportunities to their workforce.
- Flexibility and self-paced learning: Alison’s courses are self-paced, allowing employees to learn at their own convenience and fit learning into their schedules, making it suitable for remote or busy employees.
- Certification and diplomas: Learners can earn certificates or diplomas. These credentials can serve as proof of their newly acquired skills and can enhance their resumes or professional profiles.
- Specialisations and learning paths: Alison provides specialisations and learning paths that guide learners through a curated series of courses, enabling them to develop expertise in specific areas or pursue a structured learning journey.
- Continuous learning opportunities: Alison encourages continuous learning by regularly updating its course offerings. Employees can access new courses or revisit existing ones to stay updated with the latest industry trends and developments.
By leveraging Alison’s free resources and courses, organisations can empower their employees to engage in continuous learning, acquire new skills, and enhance their professional development. It’s a cost-effective way to invest in employee growth and upskilling.
