This informal CPD article, ‘What benefits has Microlearning brought to employers?’, was provided by iAM Learning, who are transforming the way your workforce trains and retains, using high-end animation, lovable characters and captivating stories to make even the most serious subjects appealing and unforgettable.
Introduction
Did you know that according to some studies, the average learner forgets 50% of what they have learned within a day? That rises to 90% within a month. Is this down to the way we absorb media these days? It’s easy to move on quickly or zone out on something else that doesn’t grip us immediately, and that includes learning. Thankfully, there are ways to combat this.
Consider microlearning! Microlearning is learning delivered in bite-sized chunks. Taking shorter, highly focused courses allows learners to understand complex ideas more simply, without overwhelming them. Microlearning examples include short eLearning courses, infographics, podcasts, quizzes and more – whatever way the learner prefers. This helps to effectively capture attention and ensure they understand what they’re learning.
5 Key Benefits of Microlearning
Why consider microlearning as an alternative to more traditional learning methods? Well, microlearning can be used to support traditional methods, rather than replace them entirely. But let's look at some of those benefits:
1. Microlearning is more engaging for employees. With attention spans getting shorter, people can struggle to sit through long-form learning. But by breaking content into bite-sized chunks, employees can focus better. It can be made interactive to keep people engaged and retain knowledge more easily.
2. Learning has a quicker impact. Being able to take courses at any time and place allows learners to consume information quickly so they can put it to use straight away. Learners could quickly log onto an LMS, microlearning app or other microlearning platform of their choice and get straight to the upskilling.
3. Increases staff retention. People want to grow professionally and develop new skills. This isn’t easy with traditional learning – you must formally arrange training, which can be costly and time-consuming. With microlearning, employees can access new skills quickly and easily to achieve their career goals. Fulfilled employees are more likely to stay with a company that offers this opportunity.
4. Employees spend less time off the ‘shop floor’. We know everyone is busy, and taking people away from their day job for long-form training is just not practical. With Microlearning, people can upskill quickly in their own time, learning what they need when they need it.
5. Increased morale. Employees who can upskill quickly are better at their jobs and generally happier. Learners can measure their progress, save time learning and progress in their careers more easily. Result? A stronger workforce with increased morale. It’s contagious too!
Summary
Microlearning is easy to implement and adapt to all learners. It offers great benefits as discussed, plus many more. These include flexible, personalised learning, and the ability to quickly keep in touch with upcoming trends and solve specific problems quickly. There’s surely a place for microlearning in your business.
Using Microlearning, you can effectively and efficiently upskill employees and your entire L&D strategy too. It’s fast becoming an essential tool for businesses and organisations who want to adapt quickly to the ever-changing world of work.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from iAM Learning, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
