Imagine the difference between spending an entire hour watching a video lecture and watching twelve five-minute videos on the same topic within a week. This practical example opens a recent article on the British Training Zone website which described a growing trend in the field of e-learning, namely microlearning.
Microlearning is a method of training based on short sets of information (so-called microcontent) which is designed for us to absorb information in the easiest possible way. Microcontent goes straight to the point, does not overload us with too much data and helps us remember information more easily. Precisely because of this it is a very effective way of learning, which significantly changes the existing methods.
Large scope for microlearning in companies
Today's young workers have grown up on short educational content. They are used to going through the latest information on social networks. They can easily handle different sources of information but the information has to be submitted in the form of short sequential chunks. They don't read long articles and lose interest in long videos.
Microlearning is, however, not intended just for the youngest generation of employees. It can help all those who don't have enough time to spend long hours training. It has proven to be an excellent way of integrating new employees into companies and improving performance. Employees can be educated on the job without being significantly disturbed. Moreover, they will remember new information better than via traditional lengthy training courses.
Microcontent on mobile devices
Regarding technological solutions for the application of microlearning in companies, using mobile technology is the ideal way. Employers can send their staff automatic notifications of new educational content via mobile applications. The employees can then, for example, view this content on their commute to work or during a break between their daily tasks. Large companies can also use their internal computer networks and websites.
The way we learn and receive information in the online world is changing. Microlearning has a great chance to become a major trend for the decades ahead.
Do you already have some experience with microlearning?
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