How do you prefer to have your veggies? Chopped well cooked? Or would you rather just let the whole vegetable cook at once and then slice it into pieces? Rather odd choice if you choose the latter. The point here, is that when chopped and bite-sized food is easier to be digested and the same goes for eLearning too at times.
And, just like that Microlearning makes the grand entrance!
We have already discussed about what microlearning is, discussed about its importance, and also looked at how it differs from traditional eLearning.
In this post, we will focus on some key aspects to be considered while creating Microlearning. Below are 5 tips to make Microlearning successful.
# Tip 1 - Backward Design
Identify the results desired and then design activities that will make desired results happen. Microlearning is outcome oriented and so following the backward design method or using approaches like action-mapping can easily assist in creating bite-sized modules that perfectly fit the purpose.
# Tip 2 - Progressive Learning
Create a curriculum and not just a course. Use Microlearning to deliver learning in progression. Start from simple to complex and link them with evaluation modules interspersed in between. Also try to give learner the freedom to select the level of complexity. This can be done by using a pre-assessment in the beginning, analyze their level based on this and then learners can be granted access to complex or more difficult concepts based on it. To make it more engaging you can think of creating a series of nuggets to make it progressive.
# Tip 3 - Course map and Rewards
The effectiveness of microlearning can be increased by providing a course map that marks the learner’s progress. Link different levels with elements of gamification, and creating a leader board etc. can increase participation, engagement and greatly influence retention too. Rewards always help for more engagement.
# Tip 4 - Personalization
Understand the learners and assign the courses accordingly. Different learners have different level of understanding. This is an extension of progressiveness. Microlearning along with additional references can be provided to learners based on their own personal requirements. Though this is more relevant to learning delivery, create microlearning modules in such a way that it can be personalized for different learners as and when required. Device compatibility is also an aspect that influences this.
# Tip 5 - Social Learning
Learning is social. So, creating microlearning that can be linked with or at times shared through social media makes it more inclined towards Learning 3.0. Microlearning is a perfect tool for social and collaborative learning and using it to do so can give the best learning outcome.
While Microlearning may not be the best solution in all cases. It still can be used as a part of different learning plans in different ways. It can easily be used for performance support, for quick revision, and for knowledge assessments as independent modules or as part of a curriculum. Its flexibility is its greatest asset.
If you are seriously considering the use of microlearning and need some help in finding the right way to move onward, feel free to send your queries to info@www.knowzies.com. Our team is always ready to assist.