What Is Microlearning? 5 Reasons It's Becoming So Popular

Table of Contents (TOC):

• Key Takeaways
• What Is Microlearning?
• Types of Microlearning
• Top 5 Reasons Micro Learning Is Becoming Popular
• Microlearning vs Traditional Learning
• Explore Microlearning Courses at UniAthena
• FAQs

72% of companies have already adopted microlearning for employee training.

This number is expected to rise as work schedules have become more demanding and learning focuses on convenience.

So if you are a working professional with only limited time on your hands for learning, microlearning courses will be extremely beneficial for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Microlearning is the practice of learning in small chunks. You, as the learner, are only dedicating 5-10 minutes to learning at a time.
   
• Watching short YouTube videos on the topic you are learning, using flashcards to remember key concepts, gamifying your learning experience with quizzes and puzzles, and reading one page at a time are some examples of micro learning.
   
• Short and quick learning modules are efficient, mobile-friendly, allow for better knowledge retention, keep students engaged, and are cost-effective.
   
• The major drawback for micro learning is that it lacks depth in concept unless paired with actual background knowledge of the subject matter.

What Is Microlearning?

First, let’s understand what microlearning for employees entails.

Microlearning refers to the practice of learning any subject by breaking down a module or lesson into smaller chunks. This could mean watching 5 minutes of a video lesson at a time, reading a page from your textbook at a time, or solving one question at a time.

Instead of focusing on the quantity of learning, you are focusing on the quality and time efficiency. This makes it easier for you to learn while commuting without getting distracted.

Types of Microlearning

Here are some types of microlearning techniques that you can choose from:

• Video-Based Microlearning: Search the topic you want to learn on YouTube or find a short course on UniAthena and learn using short videos covering the subject.
   
• Using Flashcards: Tools like Quizlet or Brainscape help you make your own flashcards to reinforce memory learning.
   
• Gamification: Apps like Duolingo for learning a language can help you learn in an engaging way.
   
• Bite-Sized Reading: Read your UniAthena lessons on the bus or train, or subscribe to informative newsletters for regular reading.
   
• Audio-Based Learning: Listen to TED Talks Daily or short 5-minute segments on Spotify on the topic of your choice.
   
• Scenario-Based Learning: Solving practice problems and exercises will help reinforce what you learn and test your understanding.
   
• Micro-Certifications: LinkedIn offers micro-learning courses that are geared towards quick learning.

Top 5 Reasons Micro Learning Is Becoming Popular

But why is micro learning suddenly becoming popular? Is it just a convenience? Let’s find out:

1. Microlearning Techniques are Efficient

With the way our schedules are so busy and attention spans are so short, learning modules that are short and quick to complete are extremely efficient. Not only do these courses or lessons cover only the most essential topics, but they also save you time.

2. Microlearning is Mobile Friendly

You do not need to carry around books, notes, or even a laptop for microlearning courses. Most of these courses are mobile-friendly and perfect for on-the-go learning. So instead of scrolling through your social media apps, you could check in with your learning app and complete a lesson at a time.

3. Better Knowledge Retention

A lot of the time, lengthy lessons end up confusing new learners. It’s always easier to understand a subject when the information is presented to you in small chunks. All microlearning platforms make sure not to overwhelm the learners with too much information at a time.

4. It Is More Engaging

When you only have a few minutes to learn and grasp a topic, you naturally become more engaged in the subject. Whether you are watching a short video or solving a quick quiz, short lessons keep you entertained and enhance your learning experience.

5. It Is Cost-Effective

A great benefit of micro learning for organizations as well as individuals is that it is extremely affordable. The courses available online cost less or are completely free. Students can create their own learning path without spending any extra money at all.

Also Read: Gamification in Education: Leveling Up Learning Experiences

Microlearning vs Traditional Learning

Just to drive the point home and give you a clear understanding of how microlearning for employees is different from traditional learning, here is a comparison table:

Explore Microlearning Courses at UniAthena

UniAthena has a “Basics courses” series which can be completed in 4-6 hours. Learn soft skills or polish your technical skills with the video lessons and text notes provided in these courses.

Here are some of our top microlearning courses for free:

• Basics of Project Management and Project Selection Methods
   
• Basics of Strategic Management
   
• Basics of Leadership Styles & Theories
   
• Basics of Artificial Intelligence
   
• Basics of Digital Marketing
   
• Basics of Business Communication

These courses and more are available for on-the-go learning on our UniAthena short course app. So explore it now.

Also Read: Why Continuous Learning Matters—and How to Make It a Habit

FAQs

Q1. Is microlearning effective?

A: Yes, microlearning is extremely effective for working professionals as it lets you learn in small chunks and gain relevant knowledge in a short time.

Q2. How does microlearning work?

A: Microlearning breaks down huge learning modules into small, bite-sized lessons, making it easier for the learner to gain quick knowledge. Each lesson is usually under 10 minutes.

Q3. How to implement microlearning?

A: You can use a learning app like UniAthena short course app to start micro learning. Or you can create your own micro learning lessons by taking a traditional lesson and breaking it down into smaller topics. You can then use flashcards or quizzes to learn the individual topics.