Best Microlearning Examples For Onboarding
Microlearning is transforming the way organizations onboard and engage their employees by providing concise, focused learning experiences. These bite-sized modules are perfect for modern learners who benefit from short, targeted bursts of information that can be easily integrated into their daily routines. In this article, we explore various examples of microlearning that can enhance your onboarding processes and boost employee engagement. From video tutorials and interactive scenarios to interactive simulations, discover how to create compelling microlearning content that keeps your workforce motivated and informed.
What Is Microlearning? The Corporate Training Definition
Microlearning is a modern approach to corporate training that focuses on delivering short and bite-sized bursts of information to deliver a simple and usable learning experience. It is a highly effective method of learning that is gaining popularity in the corporate world due to its convenience and flexibility. Instead of traditional long training sessions, microlearning breaks down complex topics into bite-sized modules, making it easier for employees to retain information and apply it in their work. This type of training can be delivered through various formats such as videos, quizzes, podcasts, and interactive activities, making it engaging, usable, and interactive for employees. With the fast-paced nature of the corporate world, microlearning is a great solution for companies to keep their employees updated and continuously learning.
Benefits Of Microlearning
Effective employee engagement strategies are paramount to an organization's success. Microlearning has emerged as a powerful tool in the realm of employee training and development. Whether you are a business leader, HR professional, or a team manager, this guide will provide valuable insights to help you leverage microlearning for optimal employee engagement.
Microlearning Increases Engagement And Completion Rates
This approach caters to the modern learner's reduced attention span and preference for on-demand learning. By breaking down complex information into manageable, bite-sized pieces, microlearning makes the learning process less overwhelming and more engaging than the traditional training method. Consequently, learners are more likely to complete the online course or training program, resulting in higher finish rates. The simple learning experience, often incorporating multimedia and modern UX elements, further enhances learner engagement. Therefore, microlearning serves as an effective strategy to improve both learner engagement for new skill development and course completion rates.
A Learning Approach That Appeals To The Modern Learner
Microlearning appeals to the modern learner due to its alignment with the contemporary lifestyle and learning preferences. In an era characterized by rapid technological advancements and information overload, learners often face time constraints and reduced attention spans—especially with traditional training.
Microlearning allows learners to absorb and retain information more efficiently, facilitating just-in-time learning with an easier learning experience. Furthermore, its compatibility with mobile devices enhances accessibility, enabling learners to engage with the material at their convenience.
Thus, microlearning's flexibility, efficiency, and adaptability to digital platforms make it an attractive learning approach for the modern individual. This is evident as mobile-friendly platforms like YouTube and TikTok, widely used for educational content, continue to grow in popularity, engaging a substantial number of users regularly.
According to a Pew Research Center study, YouTube remains one of the most widely used platforms for online videos, particularly among teens, with a substantial number of users engaging with educational content regularly.
Similarly, TikTok has seen significant growth, with its user base expanding rapidly and many industry professionals increasing their video activities on the platform to reach and educate audiences (Search Engine Journal) (Sprout Social).
Increases Knowledge Retention
Microlearning indeed enhances knowledge retention as a user-friendly learning delivery method, making it easier for learners to absorb and recall. This pedagogical approach aligns with the cognitive science principle that our brains are better at encoding and retrieving small pieces of information.
The brevity of microlearning modules allows learners to engage with the content more frequently and in shorter bursts, which reinforces memory pathways and promotes long-term retention. Furthermore, the focused nature of microlearning reduces cognitive overload, thereby increasing the efficiency of knowledge acquisition and retention. Microlearning is a potent tool for fostering a more effective and enduring learning experience for long-term memory.
Accessible And Mobile-Friendly
Because of their smaller size, microlearning modules are typically designed to be compatible with various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This mobile-friendly aspect allows learners to access educational content at their convenience, whether they are at home, in the office, or on the go.
Thus, microlearning's accessibility and mobile compatibility significantly contribute to its effectiveness as a modern learning tool.
Learner Attention Rates Go Up
It has been observed that learner attention rates significantly increase with the implementation of microlearning strategies with employees. Microlearning's bite-sized, manageable chunks are designed to cater to the modern learner's shorter attention span. This method allows learners to absorb and retain information more effectively, thereby increasing their engagement and participation in the traditional online course.
Microlearning modules are typically designed to be interactive and visually appealing, which further captivates the learners' attention. Therefore, it is accurate to assert that microlearning positively impacts learner attention rates.
Examples Of Microlearning
The following examples will provide valuable insights into how this innovative approach can be utilized in an online course to enhance learning outcomes and drive organizational success.
Each video has a 30-second quick summary and then showcases the actual microlearning example.
Culture And Values eLearning
Mobile-friendly online course videos that were embedded into storyline modules that showcase company principles and leadership in a combination of live action and animation.
Role-Specific Training
Process oriental 3D videos on how to navigate the concrete continuous flow production on the manufacturing floor.
Compliance And Legal Microlearning
This is an example of required compliance training microlearning for newly hired insurance professionals.
Leadership And Soft-Skills eLearning
Developed in partnership with Dale Carnegie, this was a leadership educational series designed specifically for managers and team leads.
Product Knowledge Training
These microlearning modules were used in an online course for sales staff, focusing on the technical aspects and key features of the software.
Diversity And Inclusion eLearning
This diversity educational video series is aimed at leadership and middle managers, with the goal of developing DEI Champions.
Customer Service And Client Interaction
This customer service training video focuses on strategies for fast food chains, aiming to improve customer service and effectively resolve customer issues.
IT And Cybersecurity eLearning
This cybersecurity microlearning series features dynamic, animated videos designed to prevent phishing scams in a fun and engaging manner.
Online Safety Training
This award-winning interactive series on driving safety was built in multiple languages and designed to be interactive and mobile-friendly.
Software Onboarding Tutorials
This series of bite-sized eLearning how-to videos provides step-by-step walkthroughs on how to use the software, offering concise and clear tutorials for users.
Are you yearning to explore a wider array of customized microlearning, eLearning, and interactive video learning examples? We invite you to delve into the most comprehensive portfolio available. Unleash your curiosity and discover the limitless potential of digital learning today!
Microlearning Apps
Microlearning apps are specialized digital applications designed to create and deliver bite-sized, focused learning experiences. They aim to enhance knowledge retention and skill development by delivering content in small, manageable units, often incorporating interactive and multimedia elements.
Microlearning Tools
Tools are specialized applications designed to aid in the creation of microlearning content, focusing on providing features and functionalities necessary for developing engaging educational materials. These tools often include video editors, quiz makers, and interactive content builders that allow educators and Instructional Designers to create high-quality, dynamic learning experiences.
For example, Articulate Rise and H5P offer intuitive interfaces and a variety of interactive elements, enabling creators to produce compelling microlearning videos and modules. Video creation tools, in particular, are essential, as they allow for the development of visually engaging content that can effectively communicate complex information in a concise and memorable manner.
By leveraging these tools, educators can craft tailored microlearning experiences that cater to specific learning objectives and audience needs.
Microlearning Software
Software applications specifically designed for microlearning primarily concentrate on the delivery of educational content for mobile learning. These applications allow learners to conveniently access succinct lessons via their mobile devices or desktop computers, thereby fostering continuous learning opportunities.
Notable mobile learning examples such as EdApp and Duolingo are engineered to deliver microlearning modules directly to users, offering interactive and captivating video lessons that can be utilized on the move.
These software solutions frequently incorporate features such as push notifications, gamification, and progress tracking, which amplify learner engagement and motivation. By ensuring the ready availability of learning materials, these applications endorse the concept of learning at any time and place, which is in alignment with the accelerated lifestyle of contemporary learners.
Microlearning LMS
Learning Management System (LMS) platforms are comprehensive solutions that facilitate the entire learning process, from content delivery to learner management and performance tracking. These platforms integrate the functionalities of both creation tools and delivery software, offering a robust infrastructure to support educational initiatives.
LMS platforms like Moodle and Blackboard are designed to organize and manage microlearning modules within a broader educational framework, providing features such as course administration, assessment, and reporting. They enable educators to upload, organize, and monitor the progress of their microlearning content, ensuring a structured and effective learning experience.
By facilitating seamless communication between learners and instructors, LMS platforms play a crucial role in managing and optimizing the learning journey, making them indispensable for educational institutions and corporate training programs.
How To Create Your Own Microlearning Courses
Creating your own microlearning courses involves several key steps, each essential to developing effective and engaging learning experiences. Begin by defining clear learning objectives. Understanding what you want your learners to achieve by the end of the course is crucial, as it guides the content creation process.
Once the objectives are established, decide on the best medium to deliver your content. This could include video, interactive quizzes, or infographics, depending on what best suits the material and engages your audience.
The process can be broken down into the following steps:
- Define learning objectives – Identify what learners need to achieve.
- Choose the best medium – Select video, quizzes, infographics, or a combination to deliver content effectively.
- Script the content – Outline the material in a structured format, keeping each segment concise and focused.
- Production process – Use tools such as Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing, Articulate Rise, or H5P for creating interactive modules.
- Course implementation – Upload and organize the content on an LMS platform like Moodle or Blackboard for easy access and tracking.
After scripting, move on to the production process using the appropriate tools. For video content, utilize video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Camtasia to create professional and engaging videos. Tools such as Articulate Rise or H5P can be used to build interactive modules and quizzes.
Once your content is ready, implement the course on an LMS platform like Moodle or Blackboard to facilitate easy access and tracking. This platform will help you manage the course, monitor learner progress, and gather feedback to improve future courses.
Microlearning Templates
Microlearning templates come in various forms designed to enhance learning through engaging, bite-sized content. These include explainer videos for introducing concepts, scenario-based videos to demonstrate practical applications, how-to videos offering step-by-step guidance, and interactive quiz videos for reinforcing knowledge.
Additionally, branching scenarios enhance decision-making skills, gamified modules boost engagement, micro-challenges foster critical thinking, and simulations provide virtual hands-on experience.
To explore more details about creating microlearning or access a resource bank of templates, visit our microlearning resources!
Microlearning Best Practices
Make Your Microlearning Mobile-Friendly
To maximize the effectiveness of microlearning, it's essential to design your content with mobile accessibility in mind. Mobile-friendly microlearning leverages the ubiquity and convenience of smartphones and tablets, allowing learners to engage with content anytime, anywhere. According to a report by Google, mobile users are five times more likely to abandon a task if a site isn't optimized for mobile devices. Tools such as Adobe Captivate and Articulate Rise offer features specifically designed to create responsive eLearning content that adapts seamlessly to various screen sizes. Ensuring your microlearning modules are mobile-friendly not only enhances the learning experience but also increases engagement and completion rates, aligning with the fast-paced lifestyles of modern learners.
Provide A Seamless Learning Approach
Providing seamless access to microlearning content is crucial for maintaining learner engagement and motivation. Research indicates that 58% of employees are more likely to use online learning tools if they can access them effortlessly via multiple devices. To achieve this, use platforms like Moodle or Blackboard that offer robust mobile apps and delivery method integrations, allowing learners to access courses without unnecessary barriers.
Additionally, ensuring that your LMS supports single sign-on (SSO) can simplify the login process and enhance the learning experience. By minimizing technical obstacles and streamlining access, you can ensure that learners can focus on the content itself rather than on navigating the platform.
Use Videos
Incorporating videos into your microlearning strategy can significantly enhance engagement and retention, but it also provides a more familiar learning experience. Studies have shown that learners retain 95% of information when they watch a video compared to just 10% when reading text. Videos can present complex information in an easily digestible format, making them the ideal delivery method for busy employees.
Tools such as Vyond and Powtoon enable the creation of animated explainer videos, while software like Adobe Premiere Pro and Camtasia can be used for more detailed instructional videos. By integrating short, focused videos into your microlearning modules, you can cater to various learning styles and improve overall comprehension and retention.
Focus The Content
Focusing content is a core principle and a good practice of effective microlearning. Each microlearning module should concentrate on a single learning objective to avoid overwhelming learners and ensure that the material is easily digestible. Research suggests that microlearning can boost retention rates by 25% to 60% by delivering content in small, manageable segments.
Use tools like H5P and Articulate Storyline to create interactive content that zeroes in on specific skills or knowledge areas. By keeping your modules concise and targeted, you can enhance the learner's ability to absorb and retain the information, leading to more effective learning outcomes.
Microlearning Trends
Accelerated Pace Of Business
The accelerated pace of business in today's digital world necessitates quick and efficient training solutions, making microlearning an ideal learning approach. Businesses are increasingly adopting microlearning to keep up with rapid changes and ensure their workforce is always up to date with the latest knowledge and skills.
A report by Deloitte highlights that the modern employee is interrupted every three minutes and typically has only 1% of their workweek to focus on training. Interactive videos, in particular, are effective, as they can deliver critical information quickly and engagingly. Tools like Vyond and Camtasia allow for the rapid creation of engaging video content, enabling businesses to respond swiftly to training needs and ensure continuous employee development.
Renewed Focus On Brain Science
The recent resurgence of interest in neuroscience is propelling the utilization of microlearning, as it harmonizes with the manner in which our brains assimilate and retain long-term information. Studies indicate that the principles of spaced repetition and active recall, both central to brain science, are efficiently executed through microlearning. Interactive videos exploit these principles by segmenting information into succinct, manageable portions that are more readily processed and memorized by the brain.
Platforms such as Articulate Storyline and H5P facilitate the production of interactive video content, incorporating quizzes and activities to foster active participation and improved information retention. By incorporating these methods, which are supported by neuroscience, businesses can augment learning outcomes and guarantee more efficacious training programs. This approach necessitates a reliance on technology.
The reliance on technology in the modern workplace is another trend bolstering the use of microlearning. As businesses increasingly adopt digital tools and platforms, microlearning delivered through technology becomes more accessible and effective.
The use of interactive videos in microlearning capitalizes on the widespread availability of mobile devices and high-speed internet, making it easy for employees to access training anytime, anywhere. According to a survey by LinkedIn, 74% of employees want to learn during their spare time at work.
Tools like Adobe Captivate and EdApp support the creation and delivery of mobile-friendly interactive video content, ensuring that training is integrated seamlessly into the daily routines of employees.
Increased Employee Expectations
Increased employee expectations for engaging and effective mobile learning experiences are driving the demand for microlearning. Today's workforce values continuous learning and professional development, expecting training to be relevant, engaging, and easily accessible. Interactive videos meet these expectations by providing immersive and interactive learning experiences that cater to diverse learning styles.
Studies have shown that 83% of employees prefer short, bite-sized learning modules. Platforms like Powtoon and Vyond enable the creation of dynamic and visually appealing interactive videos that keep learners engaged and motivated. By meeting these heightened expectations, businesses can improve employee satisfaction and retention, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth.
The business landscape is moving rapidly, and interactive videos in microlearning are proving to be essential tools for keeping up. They align with how our brains naturally learn, making information more memorable through spaced repetition and active recall. Leveraging everyday technology, these videos fit seamlessly into our mobile-centric lifestyles.
Today's employees expect an engaging and effective learning experience. They prefer bite-sized, relevant, and easily accessible content that they can consume on the go. Interactive videos meet these needs by being quick to produce, easy to distribute, and highly engaging.
