You've probably come across the term "micro-learning", but what exactly is it and how can you use it in your approach to learning? Micro-learning is not a new concept, but there can still be some confusion about what it actually means. Here you can learn more about what micro-learning is, why it has become so popular, how it can be used in different contexts, and the benefits and challenges associated with this learning method.
What is micro-learning?
Micro-learning is an approach to learning where the content is broken down into smaller units that take little time to complete, typically lasting between 3 and 5 minutes. The units are typically focused on one specific topic, making it easier to understand and apply in practice. This method is designed to combat the Hermann Ebbinghaus forgetting curve, which indicates that people tend to forget 80% of what they learn within a month. By breaking information into manageable chunks and allowing learners to revisit training over time, micro-learning ensures that knowledge is retained more effectively. This approach is not only more engaging but also more efficient and cost-effective compared to traditional learning methods.
In micro-learning, creativity is the only limit as there is no specific formula for the learning material. It can be anything from videos and pieces of text to interactive exercises, quizzes or podcasts. The key is that the learning should be presented in small portions that the recipient can easily access at their convenience and without the need for lengthy preparation.
What is the difference between micro-learning and e-learning?
Micro-learning and e-learning are often confused with each other, but they also have several things in common. Both approaches create a fluid space for learning according to both time and place. The two concepts differ in that micro-learning is a modular approach to learning, as the learning content, as mentioned, must be presented in small units. E-learning differs in that it typically focuses on delivering knowledge through longer courses that focus on the broader perspective. Micro-learning, on the other hand, consists of small modules focused on specific learning objectives. Each module is designed to provide the right amount of information to understand the topic and put it into practice. This makes micro-learning a good method when the recipients of the training are people with limited time and energy.
The growing use of micro-learning
Although micro-learning is not a new phenomenon, this learning approach is frequently used in many different contexts. We live in a society where information flows freely and technology has changed the way we acquire knowledge. Micro-learning is therefore an ideal learning method for the modern lifestyle, as learning can take place independent of time and place.
Fast and flexible learning
As mentioned, flexibility is a big advantage of micro-learning. Learning can often be associated with a time-consuming process, which can be difficult to fit into a busy life where we are constantly juggling work, personal life and other commitments. Micro-learning allows you to learn in small chunks and at a pace that makes it more manageable and flexible.
Better adapted concentration
We are presented with a wealth of information every day when we interact online, which can make it difficult to stay focused. It is therefore not uncommon for people to seek out knowledge only when they need it, which typically happens through a simple Google search. With micro-learning, learning can take place on the devices people are already using and they can get the knowledge they need exactly when they need it. At the same time, learning can occur under controlled conditions to ensure that the necessary and correct information is conveyed. Access to the material can also be controlled if personal data is involved.
It can also be difficult to stay focused for long periods of time, especially with traditional learning methods such as long lessons and large amounts of text. Micro-learning adapts to this reality by delivering small, focused lessons that can be reviewed quickly and do not require prolonged concentration.
Uses of micro-learning
Micro-learning is used in many contexts, including both business and education. It is particularly useful within fields where new knowledge is constantly emerging, such as IT and cybersercurity.
Business world
Micro-learning plays a big role in business, with many companies using it as an effective way to train their employees. It can be especially useful when onboarding new employees, where the information is often vast and varied. It's also used for employee development so that employees can stay up to date and develop their skills in their field. And of course, it's used for employee and awareness traning.
For example, instead of sending employees on a multi-day course on cybersecurity, a company can offer short modules on specific aspects of it that employees can take when it fits into their schedule.
Education sector
Micro-learning is also increasingly being used in the education sector. It is particularly useful for remote learning or online courses, where learners need flexible solutions that can be adapted to their schedules and learning needs.
Personal development
Micro-learning is also a great method for personal development. If you want to acquire new skills or expand your knowledge in a specific field, such as language, music or technical skills, micro-learning can be used to learn in small chunks at times that suit you best.
Challenges of micro-learning
While micro-learning has many benefits, there are also some challenges associated with this method.
Superficial learning
One of the biggest challenges with micro-learning is the risk of learning becoming superficial. If a complex topic is broken down into too small a chunk, it can lose its coherence and it can be difficult for the recipient to gain a deeper understanding of the topic. It can also be challenging to maintain the structural coherence that often characterizes longer learning paths. Therefore, it requires good planning to ensure that micro-learning fits into a broader learning strategy.
What should micro-learning look like?
The first thing to consider is that the content should be concise. Each unit should be between 2-5 minutes. This also means that the content should be clear and concise. Likewise, content should be presented in an engaging and dynamic format, such as videos, quizzes and animations, where it is beneficial to switch between formats in an attempt to retain the learner. Learning should take place on relevant devices, such as mobile and desktop, and support learning that can be accessed regardless of time.
Flexibility and relevance are the keywords in this approach. It must be possible to complete the learning at your own pace and it must be relevant to the individual. Relevance can be promoted by focusing the learning on practice, so authentic examples are good ways to make it easy for the recipient to understand. Consider whether feedback should be provided so that the learner can monitor whether they have understood the content correctly.
Summary
Micro-learning is a learning method where content is broken down into small, easy-to-digest units. Micro-learning is flexible and adaptable to modern, busy lives. Learning can happen on the recipient's terms and on the devices they already use. It is widely used in both business and education. But breaking topics into too small a chunk can make it difficult to learn deeply. That's why good planning is essential.
Lykke Rytter Andersen
Lykke is an intern at Moxso, where she is currently exploring different facets of cybersecurity from her academic perspective. She is studying a master's degree in IT, Learning and Organizational Transformation and has an ambition to apply her knowledge about learning to help organizations build a resilient cybersecurity culture.
View all posts by Lykke Rytter Andersen
