“The future of eLearning is short, sharp, and mobile.”
The educational landscape is undergoing tremendous transformation. In this day and age of increased digitization and mobile technology, the age-old proverb “less is more” is more pertinent than it has ever been. The strategy of presenting learning content in manageable bite-sized lessons, which is known as microlearning, is becoming increasingly popular in the realm of eLearning.
Through the process of breaking down difficult information into more digestible mini-courses, microlearning makes it easier to comprehend and remember the material.
What is Microlearning?
The teaching and learning strategy known as microlearning places an emphasis on disseminating information in manageable chunks that can be consumed quickly. The process of learning should be simplified so that it is less daunting and more doable for the individual doing the learning. This method is consistent with the current learning philosophy, which maintains that “learning should be as accessible as it is engaging” (learning should be just as easy to access as it is to engage in).
Advantages of Microlearning in eLearning
Mobile Learning
The widespread availability of smartphones has turned education into something that can be done on the go. It is anticipated that the mobile learning sector would reach $78.5 billion by the year 2025, which demonstrates the widespread use of this way of learning. The driving force behind all of this expansion is microlearning. The bite-sized content is simple to read and understand on mobile devices, making it ideal for learners who are constantly on the move.
Microlearning is utilised in the language-learning programme Duolingo, for example, which presents users with brief, interactive courses that may be finished in a matter of minutes.
Blended Learning
Traditional learning methods are enhanced with the addition of microlearning, which is one component of the blended learning strategy. For instance, lecturers could include micro-lessons as supplementary material for face-to-face or online classes in which they already teach.
A good example of this is Google Digital Garage, which provides free training in digital marketing to learners in order to help them advance their careers or businesses. It incorporates numerous learning approaches, such as video-based short lectures, quizzes, and real-world examples, making it suitable to learners with a variety of learning preferences.
Engaging Content
Micro-courses that are not just interactive but also rich in multimedia can help increase learner engagement. For example, TED-Ed, a global programme that is run by TED, provides a library of animated short lessons that have won awards, turning the process of learning into one that is both enjoyable and compelling.
Drawbacks of Microlearning and Strategies to Overcome Them
Microlearning has a number of advantages, but it also has a number of disadvantages. One of the potential
problems is that it might lead to fragmented learning experiences and knowledge gaps when it is used solely, which is one of the potential problems. On the other hand, this is something that can be dealt with by developing comprehensive learning pathways that connect separate micro-courses into a unified whole.
In addition, while microlearning is an efficient method for imparting knowledge or abilities that require only a surface level of comprehension, it may not be up to the task when it comes to more complicated topics. In situations like these, the use of microlearning in conjunction with other learning approaches can significantly improve both comprehension and long-term memory.
In Conclusion: Microlearning as a Powerful Tool in eLearning
E-learning is undergoing a revolution because to the rise of microlearning, which caters to the requirements of today’s learners. It promises to deliver learning experiences that are succinct, focused, and engaging, and it will do so in a manner that satisfies the growing demand for flexible, mobile, and individualised learning.
However, the correct implementation is essential to achieve the desired results. Inelso eLearning Solutions is able to assist organisations in utilising the potential of microlearning to revolutionise their learning experience. This assists in ensuring that the benefits of eLearning are completely realised by the organisation.
The efficiency of eLearning programmes can be improved by using a more well-rounded instructional strategy that includes both microlearning and more conventional instructional approaches. By doing so, we can create a learning environment that not only improves the body of information, but also gives students the tools they require to succeed in a digital landscape that is always shifting.
“In learning, small is big. In learning, less is more.”