MicroLearning in a Brave New World

In this post, we explore 6 reasons how and why microLearning can help businesses, non-profits, and schools through and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 pandemic has radically changed the way people work and learn. Many businesses have shifted to having staff working mostly or entirely from home. Workforces are more mobile and more remote. Universities have also shifted, moving towards being fully online, with students attending class from home. Because of this shift, there’s been an increased demand for eLearning and L&D (Learning and Development) strategies. One such strategy is microLearning.

In a previous blog post, we explored the topic of microLearning. We looked at what microLearning is and what the benefits are. That was back in March of 2020. Now looking back, and looking ahead, we can see the further benefits of microLearning in the era of COVID. 

Unlocking the Power of MicroLearning: Efficient Education Anytime, Anywhere

MicroLearning is the concept of breaking learning down into bite-sized chunks. It’s not a new concept, but the term is relatively new and corresponds with the rise of smartphones, tablets, and the information age. Short videos, photos, infographics, emails, and other media can all be used to create succinct, ‘bite-sized’ learning that can be accessed on the go. This type of learning works particularly well for mobile workforces such as retail, finance, and manufacturing, but it can also work well for nonprofits, schools, and businesses in general. 

So how does microLearning help?

1. It helps save time: Since microLearning is broken down into small segments (usually 5 -7 minutes each), it can be viewed at the learner’s convenience and can easily fit into a busy day.  No need to block off 2 hours, or more, for extensive training.
2. MicroLearning works very well for remote learning: It can be delivered through any smartphone or tablet. For those working at home or on the go, this type of learning is extremely convenient. 
3. It works with brain science: By breaking the information down into smaller chunks, microLearning can help reinforce the learning and reduce the forgetting curve. When we focus on small bits of information at a time, we’re able to consume what we’re learning in a more manageable way; this fits with the science of how we learn. Because microLearning is presented in short segments, it’s also easy to return to, which further serves to reinforce what’s learned.
4. MicroLearning helps with isolation: MicroLearning can connect teams by offering fun challenges and friendly competition. It can connect groups over vast geographical space. 
5. MicroLearning is engaging: There are currently more millennials in the workforce than ever before. This generation is looking for learning that is accessible, engaging, and just-in-time.  MicroLearning can make use of augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and gamification. MicroLearning can include all different types of media such as short video clips, images, quizzes and games, infographics, and maps. 
6. It’s personalized and learner driven: Learners can choose to customize their learning by adding videos or topics that interest them. MicroLearning can also provide valuable data to managers so that they know what areas their staff are excelling in and where they need to improve. This can be extremely helpful when staff are working remotely and in multiple locations. 

MicroLearning is not meant to replace lengthier eLearning or in-person training altogether, but it can certainly work to make training more effective and efficient. It can also serve to complement, or reinforce full-length curriculum. The great thing about microLearning is that it doesn’t feel overwhelming.  

Since we’re living through a global pandemic, multi-tasking our way through each day, and fighting off information overload, it’s easy to feel overworked and overwhelmed. That’s why microLearning can be an excellent strategy for companies to keep employees up-to-date and in-the-know, while at the same time boosting morale by making learning simple, quick, and fun! 

Ready to implement microLearning in your organization? Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and see how PathWise Solutions can help you stay ahead with microLearning.