Microlearning refers to knowledge nuggets that are made available to learners which are usually of short duration and accessible on multiple devices – smartphones, tablets, or laptops. It means that learners can access and apply the knowledge immediately in their job situation. Companies are increasingly exploring microlearning options to provide just-in-time learning for their employees.
However, micro-learning is also misunderstood by many. Here are few common microlearning myths
Myth 1: Any module that is short in duration is Microlearning
Fact: This is a common Myth that if the content is short enough it can be considered as Microlearning. For Ex, if you see a funny video on YouTube can it be qualified as Microlearning? It doesn’t as there is no learning involved. If you listen to a podcast about global warming and its effects? Still, it can’t be considered as Microlearning as there is no specific action the learner will take.
A content can be termed as Microlearning if the outcome of learning is clearly measurable or visible.
Myth 2: Chunk the content to create Microlearning
Fact: Microlearning modules are independent knowledge bytes that have to make sense on their own. So each module covers one learning objective. At the end of the module, the learner should be successful in attaining the learning objective. So the experts have to focus on making the learning simple, easy and quick.Content has to be aligned with some form of performance on the job.
Myth 3: Microlearning can be used to learn everything
Fact: Microlearning can be used to cover a single learning objective and it cannot be applied in all the fields. For Ex: You can’t master the French language by just watching a 5-minute video. Instead, you can take daily 5-minute French video classes and learn the French Language. So the areas which comprise numerous skills and sub-tasks can’t apply the strategy of Microlearning.
Myth 4: Microlearning replaces e-learning
Fact: E-learning is the learning that takes place with the help of electronic media. As Microlearning makes use of internet it doesn’t mean it has taken the place of e-learning courses.
Microlearning is a support tool that enables the learner to gather more information quickly and in short duration. It improves retention and comprehension of the learners. It will supplement the e-learning but never replaces e-learning.
Myth 5: Microlearning can make you a Subject Matter Expert Overnight
Fact: To gain an understanding of a subject you have to study in depth. Just by watching videos or by reading pdf’s or by seeing an infographic one can’t master a Subject. Any learning takes time and so Microlearning is not the best way to gain a deep understanding of a subject in a short span of time.
Microlearning is an excellent method to reinforce what has been shared in the classroom or by formal e-learning courses. You can also break down the e-learning course into microlearning modules to space out learning and to make sure learners absorb the knowledge better.
There is a limit to what microlearning modules can-do and cannot-do. If you understand this distinction, you will be able to use it effectively as one of the training delivery methods in your organization.
