Every year, it seems technology is advancing even faster and, with it, our opportunity to increase our potential to learn.
Microlearning, a popular method of learning that consists of short 2-5 minute learning opportunities with a specific learning outcome, has evolved to become a world of its own, and thanks to the evolution of tech like AI, AR and VR, the possibilities for creating deeper impact for learners with microlearning are greater than ever.
Let’s take a look at five trends to look for in microlearning as we move forward into 2020.
For better or worse, we’re in very committed relationships with our gadgets! And, when it comes to microlearning, that’s actually a good thing. Microlearning content is ideal for use on our cell phones and tablets, since the content is short, with a specific goal.
Even better, mobile learning creates a convenient place for learners to find content when and where they want to, even on-the-go. Instead of a boring time suck, waiting in line at the supermarket or for car maintenance suddenly becomes a chance to brush up on skills and advance your career. The convenience creates a “sticky” learning experience, which, in turn, can aid completion, and lower the forgetting curve to increase retention.
Notifications are another great example of why mobile devices are a great place to learn. The notification capabilities already embedded in our phones can help us interact more easily with the content, reminding us to return to the material, finish a section or follow up with additional learning opportunities.
And don’t forget about on-the-job application! The quick nature of the material and ability to easily locate what’s relevant allows for learners to refresh themselves on skills or prepare to complete a specific task
Training isn’t just about company policies and software, it’s a key component to developing an engaged workforce that’s aligned with the organization’s goals.
Every training event is an opportunity to deepen that experience, but how much time does your workforce actually have for training? According to one article, the average employee has just 24 minutes to dedicate to training per day! How can corporations harness the power of microlearning to help their employees take advantage of that limited time to provide learning opportunities?
Here are some learning areas where you can expect to see corporations taking advantage of microlearning in 2020:
Historically, AR and VR may have mostly been used for entertainment, but there are so many opportunities for this tech in the learning and training sector.
As we highlighted in 2019, reports show the market is growing quickly, with predictions of $300 million in revenue for VR and AR educational software in 2020, and $700 million by 2025!
Organizations can utilize VR & AR tech to mimic real life scenarios and provide the opportunity for learners to experience putting learning into action. These technologies are powerful for learners as they allow for “real world” training experience immediately. For example, our OSHA Portable Ladder Safety VR app allows learners to practice ladder safety training without ever stepping on a ladder. As AR and VR tech continues to advance and become more affordable, more companies will have the opportunity to take advantage of this resource.
Data, sweet data! Analytics deliver valuable data on how users interact with material, which can be utilized to optimize completion and retention. Additionally, employers can measure the transfer of knowledge to actual performance.
Anyone who has suffered through a boring Powerpoint presentation knows how hard it can be to learn from static presentations. Because microlearning focuses on a very specific, precise content and outcome, it’s ideal for interactivity, cementing knowledge and helping with retention.Technology like interactive videos with branching scenarios makes a huge difference, letting learners become an active part of the learning experience.
Gamification takes that interactivity to a whole new level. This trend in microlearning uses all kinds of fun features borrowed from gaming, like videos, simulations and branching scenarios, characters and avatars, points, collectibles, badges, timers and leaderboards to increase engagement with the material. This popular method of presenting microlearning material also gives learners a simulated real world experience, helping them put the information to work right away.
Connecting and interacting through technology with others who share our interests is something we do in so many areas of our lives now. Why should learning be any different?
Incorporating social learning into microlearning lets learners interact about the material, learning from their peers and deepening the impact of the microlearning content.
Mobile devices make this interaction a seamless experience that is fun for the learner. It’s also an opportunity to suggest or guide a learner to additional opportunities for learning that is relevant to them.
The learning may be micro, but the potential for this category is definitely macro.
Microlearning is here to stay, no longer as an add-on, but as a standalone opportunity for interactive, impactful content delivery and there has never been more potential for deepening the impact on learners than now.
The key is to find the right balance of technology solutions to make sure your content is delivered in the best format for your learners. Learn more about how we can help you develop a comprehensive learning strategy for your business.
