In a modern organization, employees don’t want to spend their time undergoing hours of training. On the contrary, an increasing amount of people enjoys just-in-time learning: acquiring knowledge when they need it. Microlearnings are the perfect fit for that learning methodology.
Developing microlearnings isn’t exactly rocket science. Still, using the right methodology during the instructional design process can get you ahead. Do you want to create short, bite-sized learning modules that achieve their learning and business goals? Then be sure to include our five useful tips to make your microlearnings stand out.
Determine the medium based on the learning goal
Microlearnings are short modules used by Learning & Development to train employees. Let’s debunk an important misunderstanding first: you are not creating microlearning by chopping up a large, bulky training into smaller bits. On the contrary: the power of microlearning lies in the several different shapes, media and elaborations that include various pieces of learning material.
When the instructional designer is picking out the medium for a microlearning module, first and foremost he or she takes into account the learning goal of that particular information. Form follows function, and can take the shape of a video, interactive pdf, audio file, tutorial, podcast or serious game.
Modify existing learning content
Always be realistic: lengthy and detailed learning material isn’t fit for a microlearning module. That kind of content matches really well with a solid, interactive e-learning that conveys your message in the right way.
A good alternative is transforming existing learning content, like PowerPoints, classroom training videos, manuals, etc into short learning modules. Catching two birds with one stone: you don’t have to start from scratch to gather the content, and you save money and time while developing the microlearning.
Focus on one learning goal per microlearning
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Aligning learning goals with business objectives creates maximal impact, that’s a topic we discussed in our previous blogpost. When developing microlearning, limit the number of learning goals to one per module. By delivering highly targeted learning content, you avoid information overload. Users focus on the essentials, and remember what they’ve learned in detail. The benefits speak for themselves.
Pay attention to user experience
We’ve mentioned it earlier: microlearning is a perfect fit for the just-in-time learning method. In that case, users have no use for vague instructions or a complicated interface. They should be able to find what they’re looking for almost immediately.
Our advice: always ensure the modules are simple, short and powerful. Every sentence, visual or video needs to add value to the content and the learning goal. That way, you avoid unnecessary distraction and support the users’ focus on the essentials.
Add a pinch of storytelling
It’s no secret that we at Neo Learning are big fans of good storytelling. It can also add value to microlearning, albeit in smaller doses. Not only is storytelling useful to boost one single microlearning. It’s even more powerful as a recurring theme throughout a series of microlearnings that revolve around the same topic. Consider, for example, characters that reappear, or graphic storytelling using a recurring visual style.
Either way, we use storytelling to emerge the users into the learning experience. Not only does it stimulate the imagination, it also creates an emotional connection with the content. The results: user engagement goes up, and learning material really sticks. Worth trying, if you ask us!
Choose tailored support, from advice to development
Ready to start developing yourself? Or do you prefer help to align learning goals with business objectives first? No idea which medium to choose for your microlearnings? Or simply no time or resources to develop microlearning yourself? Neo Learning assists you, wherever our help is needed. Contact us. We’d like to hear what we can do for your next e-learning project.
Want to know more? We love to help you out! Get in touch for a call or demo.
