How can microlearning support your professional development?

"Never bite off more than you can chew" - same applies for learning new things. The smaller the junks of learning, the more likely is it to transfer the knowledge you want to transfer. Knowledge transfer to enable others is the key of education and reflected in microlearning. Still one problem remains, the quality of the content needs to be good and a fit to the learners style / level of knowledge. So I keep up the point, quality content is the key, independant ow you call the delivery method. In any case small steps do increase likelihood of success, still no guarantee. What is missing in this article, and in my opinion the most important thing, provide a safe space to practice the learning in real-time world to turn it into competence.

Here's how to combine microlearning with daily routines for effective skill development: 1. Make it obvious & easy: - Break skills into micro-lessons (5-15 mins) - Set reminders to complete daily 2. Make it attractive & satisfying: - Pair lessons with rewards - Join a micro-learning challenge - Celebrate & track progress 3. Use microlearning's flexibility: - Learn anytime, anywhere - Fit lessons into spare moments 4. Build a learning system & identity: - Make micro-learning a daily habit - Identify as a lifelong learner 5. Aim for 1% daily improvement: - Small gains compound over time - Consistency is key Combine tiny habits with bite-sized content to make skill-building a natural part of your routine.

The bite-sized nature of microlearning fits perfectly into my busy schedule, allowing me to learn new concepts or skills in between teaching sessions, managing my online course, or analyzing market data. This approach enables learning without overwhelming my day.

Include the concept of "learning in the flow of work," where microlearning is integrated into daily tasks and workflows, reducing the need to set aside separate learning times. Highlight the potential for microlearning to be delivered through various platforms, such as mobile apps, email newsletters, or even through smart devices, providing learning opportunities in context and just in time.

Microlearning is a highly effective method for breaking down complex information into smaller, easily digestible chunks. By presenting content in bite-sized portions, learners can better retain information and stay engaged throughout the learning process. This approach is particularly beneficial for reaching a wider audience, as it accommodates different learning styles and preferences. Additionally, microlearning can be accessed on various devices, making it convenient for learners to engage with the content anytime, anywhere. This flexibility enhances accessibility and ensures that a broader range of individuals can benefit from the learning materials.

Scenario: You need to handle objections in 10 mins before a client call. Microlearning solution: 1. Interactive video (5 mins): - Story of rep navigating objection - Knowledge checks & reflection prompts - Key takeaways summarized 2. Objection handling tips (2 mins): - Infographic with 5 techniques - Acronym to apply on calls 3. Realistic practice (3 mins): - Simulated client conversation - Choose response & get feedback 4. Post-meeting reinforcement: - Survey on objection handling confidence - Personalized tips based on responses This targeted, multi-format microlearning helps you: - Relate to sales context - Learn key skills quickly - Practice real application - Reinforce learning on the job

Microlearning allows me to focus on specific skills or knowledge areas relevant to my immediate needs or interests, whether it’s a new social media marketing tactic or a UX design principle. This targeted learning keeps me engaged and motivated.

Visual aids such as illustrations or graphics can greatly enhance the effectiveness of microlearning by making the content more engaging and easier to understand for learners. Breaking down information into single, bite-sized pieces accompanied by visually appealing graphics can help learners grasp concepts more quickly and retain the information better. Visual elements can also help to create a more immersive learning experience, making the content more memorable and impactful. By combining concise text with relevant visuals, microlearning modules can effectively convey complex ideas in a simple and engaging manner.

Microlearning combats forgetting with a two-pronged approach. Spaced repetition delivers information in short bursts spread over time, aligning with the brain's natural learning cycle. Imagine daily micro-modules on a specific skill instead of a one-time session. This revisits and strengthens knowledge at optimal intervals. Additionally, microlearning goes beyond passive absorption through active recall. Quizzes, games, and practical exercises challenge learners to actively engage with the material. This, like revisiting concepts, strengthens memory pathways and reinforces learning, leading to better long-term knowledge retention and the ability to readily apply new skills in real-world situations.

Play & gamification make learning memorable by: 1. Boosting engagement & motivation - Tapping into desire for competition & rewards - Making learning fun 2. Encouraging active participation - Requiring interaction vs. passive consumption - Promoting practice & application 3. Providing instant feedback - Showing progress & areas to improve - Reinforcing correct actions 4. Chunking info into bite-sized challenges - Breaking down complex topics - Focusing on key concepts 5. Promoting social learning Gamified microlearning is ideal for making lessons interactive, rewarding & easy to reinforce through spaced repetition. When we're absorbed in a game, we remember more.

The concise format of microlearning aids in better retention of information. I often revisit these short lessons for a quick refresher, which helps reinforce my understanding and application of new concepts in my work and teaching.

Introduce the concept of "learning nudges" - small, actionable reminders or tasks related to the microlearning content, sent periodically to reinforce learning and encourage application. Discuss the role of micro-assessments that provide immediate feedback, helping learners to quickly correct misunderstandings and solidify their grasp of the subject matter.

Emphasize the importance of aligning microlearning goals with broader career aspirations and organizational objectives. Suggest creating a "learning contract" with oneself or a mentor to formalize these goals and commitments. Discuss how to leverage microlearning for just-in-time skill acquisition, targeting immediate performance improvements and problem-solving.

Here's a specific example of using gamified microlearning for professional development: Goal: Improve project management skills to prepare for a promotion. Gamified microlearning solution: - Complete a 30-day PM challenge with daily micro-lessons & tasks - Level up from "Novice" to "Master" PM based on cumulative score Sample challenge: - Day 1: Learn 5 key PM principles & create a project charter - Day 2: Practice stakeholder mapping & communication planning By breaking down PM skills into achievable challenges, adding game elements for motivation & providing opportunities to practice, this microlearning experience helps you build essential competencies in a fun, focused way.

Identifying what I aim to achieve with each microlearning session guides my selection of topics and resources. This goal-oriented approach ensures my learning efforts are focused and productive, directly contributing to my professional growth.

One of the biggest issues with self-paced courses is that people start but never finish. One amazing solution to help you finish is to schedule your learning. Block time on your calender to not just take the course but implement what you learn. Another key element is to take notes. We have to truly consume, process, then implement what we learn for the material to be effective

To make microlearning a habit: 1. Choose a consistent daily time slot - Early morning, lunch, after work, before bed 2. Start small & gradually increase - Begin with 10-15 mins, work up to 30-60 mins - Aim for sustainable frequency 3. Set recurring calendar invite - Treat like an important meeting - Make it non-negotiable "me time" 4. Prep environment for focus - Find quiet space, use headphones - Close unnecessary tabs & apps 5. Plan learning playlist or roadmap - Mix topics & formats for engagement - Check off completed lessons 6. Pair with a positive cue - Favorite beverage, music or activity 7. Reflect & apply learning - Note takeaways & use opportunities Focus on consistent daily practice, even if brief.

Introduce methods for integrating microlearning into daily routines, such as dedicating the first 10 minutes of the workday to learning or using microlearning as a transition activity between tasks. Discuss the importance of reflection and self-assessment in consolidating learning and planning future microlearning activities.

Despite its flexibility, I find scheduling specific times for microlearning helps maintain consistency. Dedicating even just a few minutes daily to learning has cumulatively contributed significantly to expanding my skill set.

One of the biggest challenges faced by learners on MOOC platforms is the low completion rate. A practical tip to counter this and make the most of microlearning is to plan and schedule your learning sessions meticulously. For instance, setting aside 30 minutes of uninterrupted learning time each day, either early in the morning before you start your regular workday or late in the evening before you wind down for bed. The key is to choose a time when you're least likely to be distracted and can fully focus on the material. Consistency in this practice helps in building a routine, making learning a habit rather than a sporadic activity, and significantly enhances your ability to retain and apply new knowledge.

Connecting and collaborating with others is a valuable tip to enhance your microlearning experience. By engaging with a community of like-minded professionals, you can gain new perspectives, insights, and resources that can enrich your learning journey. Additionally, collaborating with others can help you stay motivated, accountable, and inspired as you work towards your learning goals. Remember to actively participate in discussions, share your knowledge and experiences, and seek feedback and support from your peers to make the most of your microlearning experience.

Microlearning, with its bite-sized learning modules, supports professional development by fitting seamlessly into busy schedules, allowing for flexible, just-in-time learning. It facilitates focused skill acquisition, enabling learners to quickly apply new knowledge in real-world situations. By breaking down complex topics into manageable chunks, microlearning facilitates easier retention and recall. This approach supports continuous professional development, as learners can consistently integrate learning into their daily routines, staying updated with industry trends and expanding their skillsets efficiently. #eLearning #LearningStrategy #WorkplaceLearning

I would also add in terms of microlearning support that: * is 17% more efficient in transferring and ablity to apply knowledge than typical training * is more affordable and flexible * is more engaging * the content is easy to follow * the content can be applied immediately * it boosts knowledge retention * it gives learners more freedom as can be read ar any time and in a short period of time.

Microlearning requires fewer resources to develop compared to traditional training methods. This makes it a cost-effective option for both individuals and organizations looking to invest in PD. Microlearning is typically designed to target and address specific learning objectives or skills. This targeted approach allows you to focus on areas where you need improvement, making learning more effective and motivating.

Reflect on the potential for microlearning to support diversity and inclusion efforts by providing a variety of content formats and perspectives that cater to different learning styles and backgrounds. Consider the future of microlearning in the context of emerging technologies such as AI and VR, and how these might further personalize and enhance the microlearning experience.