At a time when almost all sectors of activity are affected by digitalization, the field of training is no exception to digitization. Among the most popular online training systems, we find the microlearning. These are training capsules whose content is aimed at a varied audience and focuses essentially on a single skill or subject. An overview of the advantages and disadvantages of microlearning, through our example of the day: learning to use the coffee machine. A skill that concerns all employees as soon as they arrive.
Microlearning, an innovative facet of vocational training
Microlearning, fast learning or even nuggets learning are learning methods that consist of sequence instructional content into sessions of 30 seconds to 5 minutes. This system was put in place to optimize the performance of learners while allowing them to adapt the time devoted to training according to their respective schedules. Indeed, as in mobile learning, no constraints relating to location, timing and availability are imposed. The learner can follow his training where he wants, at any time and on the digital medium of his choice. Thus, the “nuggets” must be ATAWAD, “anytime, anywhere, any device”. Similar to the tutorials posted on the Internet, the learning capsule offers the learner the opportunity to progress or acquire new skills independently. Unlike traditional courses, it is not subject to specific supervision and the module is searched according to the needs of the learner. If there is a peak of use in the early morning and after lunch, employees are likely to use the coffee machine throughout the day. Some even use one just before leaving. Maybe to give yourself some courage in crowded transport.
Microlearning, intelligent learning
Microlearning is a mobile sequenced training that must be adapted to all digital media. In order for it to be effective, each module should be short and have clear and specific objectives. Therefore, information is segmented into bricks to facilitate the acquisition and memory of knowledge. A module only needs to answer one question. This segmentation simplifies the flow of information and makes it possible to quickly return to poorly integrated programs if necessary. In the professional world, microlearning makes it possible to effectively train company employees while offering them a certain freedom in terms of valuing their professional career. This type of training should facilitate the updating of their knowledge and skills essential for the proper functioning of the company. However, to avoid learning modules being superficial or lacking in content, it is important to carefully select the topics to be integrated. Serve yourself an espresso. Add milk and/or sugar. Refill the water from the machine. What to do if you prefer tea (a.k.a kettle module). Clarity. Accuracy.
Effectively updating knowledge through microlearning
Thanks to microlearning, the learner and the company benefit from considerable time savings. As attention decreases after 10 minutes of training, short sequences optimize memory information compared to traditional teaching techniques, thus making it possible to Countering the forgetting curve. They also reduce the risk of cognitive overload. Mobility is one of the strengths of nuggets learning. Each learner can choose the appropriate place and time to learn and better focus on their training. Practical, segmented modules offer him the opportunity to quickly acquire knowledge on a specific subject both when he focuses on a task and when he has free time. Profitability is also among the main advantages offered by microlearning to businesses. Indeed, this method makes it possible to considerably reduce the budget for the training of their employees. With goals that are easy to achieve and knowledge that is quick to acquire, fast learning motivates learners to take other courses. Today, we control the coffee machine, tomorrow the world! ... Or at least the photocopier.
Microlearning: only for short-term goals
Despite the absence of travel to a training room, the speed of training and the reduction of budgetary burdens, microlearning has its limits. This teaching method may prove to be unsuitable for fairly complex tasks and operating principles. Indeed, segmenting information can be difficult when the topic contains many chapters with multiple sub-topics linked to each other. In addition, it is essential to provide learners with complete and not superficial information. As a result, sometimes only the basics of the subject are mentioned in the microlearning module. It is therefore necessary to integrate a link or a page referring to the rest of the information completing the course. Due to the fragmentation of information, microlearning cannot be the subject of primary training, but rather a short-term training strategy. This technique is used to master a single task and not to achieve long-term goals. A learning method that may be suitable for, say, cleaning a coffee machine will not work if it is more a question of performing a triple coronary bypass. The second operation requires multiple years of study, and even cut into 5-minute slices is a long time.
Microlearning: optimized and attractive supports
To provide learners with rich, comprehensive, and effective microlearning training, it is important that each module is designed down to the smallest detail. To design the presentation, It is necessary to use author tools elearning compatible with almost all existing mobile devices and search engines. These digital devices adapt the display, screen resolution and access to content according to the needs of the media. Therefore, Learners get the same benefits of microlearning regardless of what hardware they have. In general, training tools are presented in video format. To achieve the goals set and a large audience, It is important that videos are adapted to all types of learners. For example, images need to be engaging to capture the attention of visual learners. It is also possible to use subtitling for learners with hearing problems. An interactive demo can also help you quickly put what you've learned into practice. It is even ideal for coffee machine training, since in general, when you are interested in it, it is to make yourself a coffee immediately afterwards. Putting what has been learned into practice. Hop.
By fragmenting information on a specific subject using the microlearning method, it is easier to update the knowledge acquired. Learners can access an educational program in a timely manner, without necessarily going to a training room. However, in order for information to be properly assimilated, it is important that the content is attractive, practical and adapted to the target audience.
Attention: the abuse of coffee is bad for your health. Also, in case your cup is knocked over unexpectedly, please wipe off the coffee that is dripping everywhere. Ah, but.
