Definition
Microlearning is learning bursts of new information in small parts at a time. Some key features tend to include1:
- Sessions under 10 minutes
- Targeted simple and/or narrow topics
- Tasks be completed in-person or virtually
- Information paired with an activity
Benefits
According to the Ebbinghaus Forgetting Curve, people tend to lose 80% of the knowledge they learn within a month.2 Microlearning can combat this issue because it splits topics into smaller chunks and allows learners to recall different parts over time ultimately improving retention. Additionally, this approach:
- Requires less time to complete
- Increases engagement
- Encourages individualized, self-paced learning
- Supports flexible virtual and in-person learning
Examples
- Watching short instructional videos (TedTalks, podcasts, YouTube, etc.)
- Flashcard learning
- “Word of the day”
- Infographics for quick facts
- Concise homework/activities that address specific topics
- Mobile apps to train skills
- TikTok educational videos
See also:
- Nine Ways to Use Microlearning in Your Teaching – OpenStax
- What is Microlearning? A Complete Guide for Educators – My eLearning World
Sources:
- Everything You Wanted to Know about Microlearning (But Were Afraid to Ask) – efront Learning
- Microlearning – Valamis
Image Attributions: Path Lord from the Noun Project (CC-BY)