Microlearning is a succinct burst of knowledge focused on one specific learning outcome. It is often used to break down a larger topic into numerous bite-sized modules, allowing for learning flexibility. Here are just 3 reasons how it can benefit business:
1. Cost-Effective
A microlearning module usually comes in a 3-5 minute package, and while it often utilises a more informal training style, the impact on efficiency as well as the Return on Investment (ROI) of microlearning is massive.
According to learning architect, Ray Jimenez, PhD, in his book 3-minute eLearning (2009), by creating micro-courses, learning developers can reduce development costs by 50% and increase the speed of development by 300%.
2. Speed to Market
Today, we want people to be inducted quickly and products to hit the market fast, and this is where microlearning comes into its own. Microlearning can be developed in a much shorter time, so if you have a new car that’s about to hit the market, your salespeople can have a microlearning module delivered in time to understand features and benefits.
One company has used microlearning to develop a learning culture. Each day, their retail team comes to work and watches a module on a service, product, compliance issue, etc.
3. Improves Engagement
According to the Microsoft Attention Spans Study, millennials express, “When nothing is occupying my attention, the first thing I do is reach for my phone,” compared to only 10% of those over the age of 65. With courses and training modules broken into bite-sized pieces, employees can absorb new information on the go. According to the Aberdeen Group, “Companies that use microlearning for employee development are 1.9 times more likely to enable employees to access content from mobile devices.”
Employee engagement is vital to the ultimate success of your employees and by extension, your business. Training delivered in a format adapted to their natural behaviours will keep employees engaged, contributing to the long-term health of your business and impacting employee performance.