I am always searching for the top trends in education. Is that unique? I don’t think so, but I was excited to read “13 Biggest EdTech Trends To Watch Out For In 2024” by Gargi Ghosal.
According to the Geek Flare author, the tops trends in edtech are the following:
- Adaptive Learning
- Artificial Intelligence
- Competency-Based Learning
- Equity and Inclusion
- Gamification
- Hybrid Classrooms
- Microlearning
- Mobile Learning
- Newer Niche Startups
- Open Educational Resources
- Personalized Learning
- Social Learning
- Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
There are a few trends here that I have spent some time thinking about and discussing whether through this blog or on my podcast, The Teacher’s Pep Rally.
Let’s dive into one that I have not explored too much – Microlearning.
Supporting Microlearning
Microlearning is a teaching strategy that involves delivering small chunks of information or skills to learners in short sessions. Microlearning can help students retain information better, stay engaged and motivated, and apply their learning to real-world situations.
Here is a small list of ways to support microlearning for students in the general classroom.
1. Multimedia Resources
One way to support microlearning is to use multimedia resources, such as videos, podcasts, infographics, or games. These resources can capture students’ attention, provide variety and interactivity, and convey complex concepts in simple ways. You can use multimedia resources to introduce a topic, reinforce a lesson, or assess students’ understanding.
2. Spaced Repetition
Another way to support microlearning is to use spaced repetition, which is a technique that involves reviewing information at increasing intervals over time. Spaced repetition can help students consolidate their memory, prevent forgetting, and enhance recall. You can use spaced repetition to review previous topics, reinforce key concepts, or prepare for exams.
3. Feedback and Reflection
A third way to support microlearning is to use feedback and reflection, which are essential for learning and improvement. Feedback and reflection can help students monitor their progress, identify their strengths and weaknesses, and adjust their strategies accordingly. You can use feedback and reflection to guide students’ learning, provide constructive criticism, or celebrate achievements.
Companies that Use Microlearning
Some examples of companies that are doing microlearning to a level of best practice are:
Google: Google uses microlearning courses, also known as “whisper courses”, to train its managers on various topics such as feedback, coaching, and diversity. These courses are delivered via email and take only a few minutes to complete. They are designed to be relevant, timely, and actionable for the learners.
Cardinal Health: Cardinal Health is a global health care services company that uses a digital adoption platform to improve its Salesforce adoption. The platform provides microlearning modules that guide the users through the Salesforce features and functions, as well as tips and best practices. The modules are available on-demand and can be accessed from any device.
IBM: IBM is a multinational technology company that uses microlearning to develop cloud expertise among its employees. IBM offers a variety of microlearning resources, such as bite-sized videos, podcasts, infographics, and quizzes, that cover topics such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and blockchain. These resources are accessible from a centralized portal and can be personalized based on the learner’s preferences and goals.
Unilever: Unilever is a consumer goods company that uses microlearning to train its employees on various skills and competencies. Unilever offers “snackable” learning content that can be consumed in less than five minutes, such as videos, articles, podcasts, and games. These contents are aligned with the company’s values and objectives and are delivered via a mobile app that uses gamification and social learning to motivate and engage the learners.
Great Resources to Learn More about Microlearning
Artist
Walk Me: The Change Management Blog
Microlearning Demystified: Proven Examples for Engaging and Efficient Learning (walkme.com)
WhatFix
What Is Microlearning? Examples, Benefits, Best Practices (whatfix.com)
Microlearning is an innovative learning approach that involves breaking down complex subjects or skills into smaller, more digestible pieces of information. By doing so, microlearning can enhance knowledge retention, improve productivity, and foster a culture of continuous learning. I hope you find these tips useful, like I did. Let me know how you implement microlearning in your teaching practice.
See You Real Soon,
Erin
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