What is Microlearning?
(a.k.a. micro learning or micro-learning)
Agile learning on the go and designed to fit into work schedules, down time or public transport journeys. Breaks education into small units and learning tasks for microcontent focus. Burns-Johnson (2016) state the core characteristics of microlearning are:
- Short (on the go).
- Focused learning (one skill or topic).
- Multi-platform (any device any location).
Education Theory
- Prevents information overload (chunking theory).
- Teaching for a world of internet, computer games and television where we have constant access to a globalised resource pool of information.
- Problem solving helps fill in the knowledge gaps.
- Personalised learning approach.
Relevancy
- An ever changing world requires quick responses in work and private life.
- Anytime & anyplace learning.
- Increasing use of mobile devices for learning (M-Learning).
- Learners expect interactivity.
The Againsts
- Traditional teaching approach reluctant to change.
- Relies on network connectivity.
- Small screen.
- Variability in platforms.
Some Attention Statistics (from Statistic Brain)
- Attention span in 2000 – 12 seconds
- Attention span in 2015 – 8.25 seconds
- Attention span of a goldfish – 9 seconds
Resources
Burns-Johnson, E. (2016) A Bite-Sized Guide to Microlearning. Allen Interactions.
Bruck, P. A., Motiwalla, L., & Foerster, F. (2012). Mobile learning with micro-content: a framework and evaluation. Bled eConference, 25th Bled eConference eDependability: Reliable and Trustworthy eStructures, eProcesses, eOperations and eServices for the Future, 17-20.
Gassler, G., Hug, T., & Glahn, C. (2004). Integrated Micro Learning–An outline of the basic method and first results. Interactive Computer Aided Learning, 4.
