Microlearning: Bite-sized learning in the flow of work

Businesses today face the constant challenge of keeping their workforce equipped with essential skills and knowledge even amid their busy schedules. As such, learning and development initiatives have never been more critical for future-proofing an organisation and maintaining a competitive edge in this fast-paced environment.

According to LinkedIn's 2024 Workplace Learning Report, 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their career development. Furthermore, a recent report by Deloitte found that companies with a strong learning culture are 92% more likely to innovate, and 58% more likely to meet future talent needs.

One increasingly popular approach to L&D is microlearning, a strategy that delivers information in short, focused bursts, perfectly suited to the needs of busy employees.

What is microlearning?

Microlearning is a modern approach to learning and development that emphasises delivering information in short, focused bursts, typically lasting from 3 to 10 minutes. This method caters to the shrinking attention spans and busy schedules of today's employees, offering easily digestible content that can be consumed quickly and efficiently.

Its modules can take various forms, including short videos, interactive quizzes, infographics, concise articles, and podcasts. Each module is designed to address a specific learning objective, providing just the right amount of information needed to understand a concept or master a skill.

This targeted approach eliminates information overload and ensures that learners stay engaged and motivated. The flexibility of microlearning allows individuals to access training materials anytime, anywhere, and on any device, making it ideal for on-the-go learning and just-in-time support.

By breaking down complex topics into manageable chunks, microlearning promotes better knowledge retention and application, empowering employees to learn effectively and efficiently.

The key to effective microlearning lies in its conciseness, relevance, and accessibility. Each microlearning module should focus on a specific learning objective and be readily available to learners when and where they need it.

Boosting engagement and retention with microlearning

Microlearning offers several advantages over traditional L&D approaches, particularly when it comes to employee engagement and retention:

Increased engagement

The short, focused nature of microlearning combats information overload and keeps learners motivated.

Improved knowledge retention

By delivering information in manageable chunks, microlearning enhances knowledge absorption and recall.

Just-in-time learning

Microlearning provides immediate support for specific tasks or challenges, making it highly relevant and applicable.

Flexibility and convenience

Accessible anytime, anywhere, and on any device, microlearning fits seamlessly into employees' busy schedules.

Personalised learning

Microlearning modules can be tailored to individual needs and learning styles, providing a more effective learning experience.

Best practices in implementing microlearning

Integrating microlearning into your L&D strategy requires careful planning and execution. Here are some best practices to consider:

Identify specific learning objectives

Clearly define what you want employees to learn from each microlearning module.

Keep it concise and focused

Each module should address a single concept or skill.

Use a variety of formats

Cater to different learning styles and maintain learner interest.

Ensure mobile compatibility

Make learning accessible on any device.

Provide context and relevance

Connect microlearning modules to real-world work situations.

Incorporate interactive elements

Use quizzes, polls, and games to reinforce learning and assess understanding.

Offer opportunities for practice and application

Provide simulations or real-world assignments to solidify learning.

Gather feedback and iterate

Continuously evaluate the effectiveness of your microlearning programme and make adjustments as needed.

Integrating microlearning with other L&D initiatives

Microlearning isn't meant to exist in isolation. To maximise its impact, it should be seamlessly integrated with your broader L&D initiatives. Think of it as a valuable tool within a diverse learning toolkit.

For instance, after a day-long training session, microlearning modules can reinforce key takeaways and boost knowledge retention. Conversely, bite-sized lessons can act as a primer, preparing employees for more in-depth workshops or seminars.

When performance gaps emerge, microlearning can provide targeted support and just-in-time solutions. Furthermore, by making microlearning resources readily available, you cultivate a culture of continuous learning, encouraging employees to stay abreast of industry trends and best practices at their own pace.

This blended approach, combining the strengths of various L&D methods, creates a dynamic and comprehensive learning ecosystem that caters to diverse needs and drives continuous growth. Here are other ways to integrate microlearning into your L&D programmes:

Use microlearning to reinforce traditional training. Provide follow-up microlearning modules to reinforce key concepts from workshops or seminars.

Prepare learners for in-depth training. Offer introductory microlearning modules to provide foundational knowledge before a more intensive training programme.

Support performance improvement. Use microlearning to address specific performance gaps or provide on-demand support for challenging tasks.

Microlearning offers a powerful and efficient approach to L&D, enabling employees to acquire knowledge and skills in a way that fits their busy schedules and modern learning preferences.