Let’s talk about microlearning! What is it? What does it look like? Why should I use it? According to Amy Fox (2016), microlearning can be defined as “Training delivered in a bite-sized format that puts individuals in control of what they’re learning” (p. 116). With microlearning the information is being presented in small bits for the learners. This can be presented in many different ways. The information could be one stand alone piece of learning or could be a set of microlearning training.
As an instructional designer, this can be a really great tool to use for many reasons. One of the main reasons microlearning can be beneficial is because it has been found to increase retention by up to twenty percent (Winger, 2018). When it comes to designing online instruction, learner retention is always a concern of mine. With microlearning the information is being presented in a way that is not overwhelming to the students so they are able to hold onto that information better. Another benefit of microlearning is that it can typically be accessed anywhere (Winger, 2018). In most situations students can access these through mobile phones, tablets, and computers. With other courses or trainings, it is not always that simple. Another benefit is that it helps make the content more relevant, relatable, and manageable for the students (Fox, 2016). As you can see, there are a lot of benefits of using this learning style in your instructional design.
I created a microlearning training on how to use the Mood Meter in the elementary school classroom. This training fits in with the definition of microlearning because it provides a small “bite-size” introduction to the mood meter and gives simple ways to use this tool in the classroom. The training I created takes only three-five minutes to complete. Amy Winger (2018), suggests that microlearning opportunities should only last a couple of minutes in order to keep the students engaged. Infographics are also encouraged to be used to help the learner digest the knowledge (Winger, 2018). My microtraining has a few infographics to help the students process the information. First, the infographic below shows an agenda for the students so that they are able to complete the training. The second infographic below, is a downloadable quick-reference guide for the students. This will help the students retain the information in my microtraining.
So I hope you now see the benefits of using microlearning in your instructional design. You can view the training I created by clicking the link below. I hope you enjoy, let me know your thoughts below!
-Erin
References
Fox, A. (2016). Microlearning for effective performance management. TD: Talent Development, 70(4), 116–117.
Winger, A. (2018). Supersized tips for implementing microlearning in macro ways. Distance Learning, 15(4), 51–55.
Training Agenda
Quick Reference Guide
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