7 Amazing Tips to Create Effective Microlearning Modules That Awe Your Learners

In today's fast-paced corporate environment, learning and development professionals are constantly seeking innovative ways to deliver effective training that engages and empowers employees. One such method that has gained immense popularity is microlearning. Microlearning involves delivering bite-sized chunks of information to learners, making learning more manageable, digestible, and impactful. In this blog, we'll delve into what microlearning is, why it's ideal for corporate training, and provide seven amazing tips to create microlearning modules that leave your learners in awe.

What is Microlearning — Is it More Than Chunking Content?

Microlearning is more than just breaking down content into smaller parts. It's about delivering focused, targeted learning experiences that cater to specific learning objectives. These bite-sized modules can be in various formats such as videos, infographics, podcasts, or interactive quizzes, making learning engaging and accessible.

Remember, chunking lengthy eLearning modules into short lessons is not microlearning. You need to think strategically to squeeze the essence of the topic at hand into meaningful bite-sized learning nuggets.

→ Download eBook: Microlearning 101

Why Choose Microlearning for Corporate Training?

Flexibility

Microlearning provides flexibility to employees by allowing them to access training whenever it suits them best. This is particularly valuable in corporate settings where employees have busy schedules and may not have the time for lengthy training sessions. With microlearning, they can fit in short learning sessions during breaks or downtime, making learning more accessible and manageable.

Retention

The bite-sized nature of microlearning content promotes better information retention. Learners can focus on one concept or skill at a time, digesting it fully before moving on to the next. This focused approach helps prevent cognitive overload and improves long-term retention compared to cramming large amounts of information in a single session.

Engagement

Microlearning often incorporates interactive elements like quizzes, games, simulations, and videos. These interactive features make the learning experience more engaging and enjoyable for employees. This not only increases motivation and participation but also leads to better learning outcomes.

Cost-Effectiveness

Creating microlearning modules is typically more cost effective than traditional training methods. Since microlearning content is concise and focused, it requires less time and resources to develop. Additionally, digital delivery platforms can be used to distribute and track microlearning materials efficiently, reducing costs associated with in-person training sessions.

Scalability

Microlearning is highly scalable, making it suitable for organizations with a large workforce spread across different locations. Once created, microlearning modules can be easily distributed to a large number of learners through online platforms. This scalability allows companies to deliver consistent training experiences to employees regardless of their geographical locations, ensuring uniformity in learning outcomes.

How to Design Microlearning Modules to Enhance Learning — 7 Amazing Tips

#Tip 1: Keep it Crisp

When designing microlearning modules, it's crucial to focus on one specific learning objective per module. This approach prevents overwhelming learners with excessive information and ensures a clear understanding of the targeted concept. For instance, in a sales training module, instead of covering the entire sales process in one go, break it down into bite-sized modules focusing on topics like prospecting, objection handling, or deal-closing techniques. This allows learners to grasp each concept thoroughly before moving on to the next, leading to better retention and application of knowledge.

#Tip 2: Make it Interactive

Incorporating interactive elements such as polls, quizzes, and gamification can significantly enhance learner engagement and motivation. For example, in a compliance training module, include interactive scenarios where learners must make decisions based on real-life situations they might encounter in the workplace. This not only reinforces learning but also makes the training experience more enjoyable and impactful. Gamified elements like leaderboards or badges can further incentivize participation and drive healthy competition among learners.

Watch this video to get insights into the dos and don’ts of microlearning.

#Tip 3: Create Visually Appealing Modules

Utilizing multimedia elements like videos, animations, and graphics can make microlearning modules visually appealing and easier to digest. For instance, in a software training module, instead of relying solely on text-based instructions, incorporate screencasts or interactive simulations demonstrating how to perform specific tasks within the software. Visual aids not only break the monotony of text but also enhance comprehension by providing a visual context for learning concepts.

#Tip 4: Include Engaging Assessments

Assessments should be an integral part of the microlearning experience, designed to evaluate learners' understanding and application of the content. Incorporate performance-based assessments where learners are required to demonstrate their skills in real-world scenarios. For example, in a customer service training module, include a scenario-based assessment where learners role-play interacting with dissatisfied customers to showcase their ability to handle challenging situations effectively. It is also recommended to offer a variety of question formats such as multiple-choice, scenario-based, and drag-and-drop to design interactive assessments that ensure a comprehensive evaluation of learners' knowledge and make evaluation enjoyable.

#Tip 5: Include Links for 'Nice to Know' Content

While microlearning focuses on core learning objectives, providing additional resources or links for 'nice to know' content allows learners to explore related topics in more depth if they desire. For instance, in a marketing strategy module, include links to articles, case studies, or webinars for learners who want to delve deeper into specific marketing tactics or industry trends beyond the essentials covered in the module. This promotes self-directed learning and caters to varying levels of interest and curiosity among learners.

#Tip 6: Weave Relevance to Real-world Problems

Making microlearning relevant to real-world problems involves using practical examples, case studies, and scenarios that mirror learners' daily tasks and challenges. For example, in a project management module, incorporate case studies of successful project implementations or challenges faced by project teams, allowing learners to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios. This contextual learning not only enhances understanding but also prepares learners to tackle similar situations in their professional roles effectively.

#Tip 7: Offer Multiple Formats to Curb Monotony

Mixing different formats such as videos, podcasts, infographics, eBooks, and more can cater to different learning preferences and prevent monotony. For instance, in a leadership development module, combine video interviews with industry experts, interactive infographics showcasing leadership traits, and audio podcasts discussing leadership strategies. This diverse approach keeps learners engaged and accommodates various learning styles, ensuring a dynamic and enriching learning experience.

Parting Thoughts!

Microlearning is a powerful tool for delivering effective and engaging corporate training. By following the seven amazing tips outlined in this blog, you can create microlearning modules that not only awe your learners but also drive meaningful learning outcomes. Embrace microlearning as a versatile and impactful training solution to stay ahead in today's dynamic business landscape.

Are you unsure about where microlearning fits in your corporate learning strategy? Well, here’s a comprehensive guide to shed some light. Grab it now to sail through your microlearning journey seamlessly.