9 Microlearning Techniques For Instructional Designers
Microlearning prevents cognitive overload by imparting information in small doses. Thus, online learners have the ability to fully absorb every fact and stat before moving onto the next topic. It also makes learning more convenient, which is a big advantage in our fast-paced modern world. Here are 9 creative microlearning techniques that deliver short bursts of information to your busy online learners.
1. Add Serious Games
Incorporating serious games gives online learners the knowledge they need without skimping on fun and excitement. They combine traditional game elements, such as levels and points, with learning materials. It only takes a few minutes for them to conquer a foe and build essential skills in the process. This is particularly true when the eLearning characters, setting, and story make them forget that they're actually learning, which is why realism and relatability are of the upmost importance. Make them feel for the protagonist so that they can step inside their shoes and become part of the adventure.
2. Offer Social Media Tips
Your online learners are already using social media on a regular basis. Use this to your advantage by posting tips and tricks on social networking sites. You can also provide links to informative eLearning articles, infographics, videos, and other online resources, which is the epitome of informal microlearning. These quick tips improve comprehension and give online learners the insight they need to solve real world challenges. If you prefer to post visual eLearning content, such as images and charts, Instagram is the ideal social platform.
3. Produce eLearning Video Demos
There are instances where online learners need to see the task in action. This allows them to mimic the actions so that they can improve their performance and productivity. Brief eLearning video demos set the example and give online learners a step-by-step walkthrough of the process. They are also ideal for showcasing eLearning products and services. For example, a 5-minute product presentation that highlights the major selling points and specs. One of the primary benefits of eLearning video demos is that they're easy to access and share. You can embed them in social media posts, upload them to your eLearning course, or even create a microlearning YouTube channel.
4. Post Weekly eLearning Blog Prompts
The mind can only take so much before it shuts down. This is known as cognitive overload. However, giving your online learners brief bursts of information on a weekly basis improves knowledge retention and recall. It also makes the learning process more convenient, which increases learner engagement. Post a weekly prompt on your site or social media group and ask online learners to reflect on the topic. They have all week to solve the problem or draw their own conclusions. After they comment the post, their peers can leave eLearning feedback and share their own opinions.
5. Provide Real World Examples
Real world examples form a connection between the topic and practical applications. They also stress the benefits of learning the subject matter, which increases online participation. Most importantly, examples offer online learners a concise yet complete overview of the ideas and concepts in a bite-sized format. For instance, an example explores every aspect of a task so that online learners know why they must follow a protocol. You can take it a step further by creating an online presentation or slideshow based on the real world example. This provides a visual representation of the eLearning characters and events to enhance understanding.
6. Create Task Simulations
Simulations immerse online learners in real world environments and situations. Instead of just reading about the task, they are able to experience it firsthand. This equips them with the knowledge and skills they need to achieve real world goals. For example, learning how to troubleshoot a technical issue so that they can help customers on-the-job. Microlearning simulations are also easy to repeat. An online learner can simply access the eLearning content when they are struggling to complete a task or require specific skill sets.
7. Develop Mobile-Friendly Online Training Tutorials
Mobile-friendly and microlearning go hand in hand. Both provide greater accessibility and convenience. Thus, it's wise to use a responsive design tool to create your microlearning online tutorials. These responsive design tools allow you to develop a master layout that adjusts based on the device, instead of producing multiple versions. Online training tutorials can be anything from brief eLearning videos and presentations to drag-and-drop eLearning interactions. Just remember that mobile learners rely on their thumbs rather than mouse pointers. As a result, you need to make the eLearning navigation icons larger, optimize images, and choose legible fonts.
8. Improve Knowledge Retention With Pop Quizzes
Who doesn't love a pop quiz? It's true, your online learners probably cringe at the thought of an unexpected eLearning assessment. However, pop quizzes give them the chance to recap the information and commit it to long-term memory. They also identify areas for improvement so that online learners can seek out additional resources. It's a good idea to quiz your online learners after every eLearning module or activity in order to gauge their progress. This gives you ample time to intervene, if necessary, or adjust your approach to meet their needs.
9. Design Information-Packed Infographics
Infographics offer a general overview of a topic or task. They can even highlight trends and product features. The key is combining compelling visuals with concise text. For example, pairing each fact or stat with a graphic that illustrates the point. You want to give them the essential details, but not barrage them with too much information. Also, don't forget to include social media icons so that online learners can share it with their network.
These microlearning techniques are flexible. So, you can customize them however you like to suit your learning needs. Just remember that it's all about bite-sized bits of knowledge that online learners can access on-the-spot.
Microlearning has been around for quite some time, which means that it has plenty of myths behind it. Read the article 6 Microlearning Myths eLearning Professionals Should Bust to discover the top microlearning falsehoods that eLearning professionals should bust.
