Advanced Micro Learning Strategies to Use in 2021
This article talks about four advanced micro learning strategies that are up to date and can be used in 2021 for better online learning.
Introduction
Micro learning, as the name suggests, is a concise form of learning. It includes bite-sized nuggets of information which need only three to six minutes to consume.
These nuggets are sometimes small parts of a large whole. At other times they act as standalone modules with a specific focus.
Micro learning has been a part of online education for many years. It is very effective for adult learning. They work especially well for senior employees, who are already experienced and need training only on a need-to-learn basis.
Micro learning is being used for both formal and informal training by many organizations. We can now take a look at four advanced micro learning strategies which can be used in 2021.
- Video Based Micro Learning
Micro learning videos can be very useful. This is why this strategy is used extensively by leaders in the learning and development world. It is used to build context around the many varieties of training topics.
Micro learning videos can be full of impact even while being brief. If there are in-depth questions following the end of the video, even better. This will help the learners to absorb the concept taught by the video in full. It will also enable them to apply the newly learned concept in their specific field of work.
While using micro learning videos, a few things need to be kept in mind. Following the general essence of micro learning, the videos have to be brief. They must focus on one specific topic. Extra care needs to be taken while choosing the right visuals.
Another thing to ensure is that the videos are similar to the content that the learners are acquainted with. That is to say, it should feel the same as the video content they usually consume on their smartphones.
This strategy helps to make the format of micro learning familiar and also effective. It leaves a powerful impact on the mind of the learner. It ensures greater receptivity and retention of information.
- Micro Learning Based on Scenarios
Learning based on real-life scenarios is an extremely effective tool for education. It helps employees learn a variety of soft skills. Additionally, they can learn about leadership skills and new processes.
Micro learning can include scenario-based education as well. This is more effective, because it delivers a powerful, focused training in a short span of time. This in turn ensures that the learners are kept engaged and can retain the information for longer.
How does scenario-based micro learning work? This strategy makes use of real-life situations and experiences. These help learners relate better to the content that they are consuming. They can also have a deeper understanding of how the real-life scenarios apply to them.
In this form of micro learning, there are questions which can best be described as hypothetical stories. These stories help earners think through complicated situations and knotty problems. Ultimately, learners can develop their skills connected with critical thinking and problem solving.
- Gamification
When done properly, gamification and micro learning can be an excellent combination. The correct strategy needs to be used here, so that the learning experience is enhanced. Gamification can increase learner engagement and retention of knowledge, without being pedantic and hurried.
Short nuggets of micro learning need to be combined well with elements of gamification. This will enable learners to grasp the information fast and apply it to their work. Remembering the particular concept is also made easy by using gamification tools.
This strategy incorporates the element of fun in learning. It also ensures better rates of course completion. No wonder then that many companies are using gamification as a part of their online training modules.
Gamification focuses on taking out boredom from learning. Instead of bombarding learners with theories and concepts, gamification aims to make them perform an activity and score reward points. It is like playing a video or mobile game. Adding a leaderboard makes the process more competitive and exciting. Fun, brief arcade games can be included in the micro learning format.
- Graphics and Animation
Adding media-rich graphics and animation will make micro learning modules more lively and relevant. This strategy also combats the boredom that can come with reading a big block of text.
Content can be made zesty by breaking it down into brief modules. Adding images, short animations and graphics makes the program more palatable. This will increase learner engagement and knowledge retention.
Limitations of Micro Learning
Micro learning is a popular and simplified method of online learning. But it cannot be used in all situations. While it is useful to impart specific training or as a refresher course, micro learning cannot be used to teach complex topics. These topics are best addressed by formal classroom training or eLearning.
Do not use micro learning if you want employees to gain complete mastery over a topic. Do not use it as a replacement for formal training. Do not use micro learning to deal with complex topics.
Conclusion
Micro learning is an important and effective tool for online training. However, it is not a substitute for in-depth online learning modules. It should be used with discretion.
