Microlearning in education
- September 29, 2023
- Reading time : 9 Mins
Executive Summary: Microlearning in education has emerged as a powerful tool that streamlines learning for both teachers and students. By breaking down complex subjects into bite-sized, easily digestible modules, microlearning provides a more focused and efficient approach to education. Through its implementation, educational institutions can improve student success rates while solidifying their reputation as forward-thinking establishments committed to effective teaching practices.
In his revered book, “How We Think”, world-renowned psychologist John Dewey opined that the traditional technique of strictly-defined subjects, as well as a tendency to encourage rote-learning, prove to be an ineffective educational approach. He said this traditional method of teaching stifles the naturally inquisitive mind of young learners. It also dulls their capacity for reflective thought, and their ability to apply concepts in practical scenarios (Dewey, 1910).
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, Dewey’s wisdom resonates profoundly. His critique of rigid, subject-centered teaching methods, and his advocacy for a more dynamic and engaging learning process, remains a beacon of insight even after a century. Dewey’s sentiments are particularly relevant in the context of microlearning in education. Microlearning is a pedagogical approach that has been gaining momentum. This innovative method acknowledges the innate curiosity within learners, fostering an environment that encourages exploration and critical thinking. By breaking down complex subjects into digestible, bite-sized modules, microlearning in education seeks to liberate education from the constraints of rote memorization. It nurtures a deeper understanding and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios.
Let’s understand more about the limitations of traditional education.
People forget nearly 90% of what they have learnt within just 7 days, unless the concepts are reinforced. That’s why employees swamped with documents, presentations, and classroom sessions are not likely to learn much.
However, time constraints make it difficult to reinforce vast concepts.
What can you do instead? Arm your employees with one concept at a time. Studies show the human attention span is only 8.25 seconds, so keep your training concise.
RapL is your software for that.
Why traditional education is no longer effective
Traditional education methods have long been the cornerstone of our educational system. However, as society evolves and technology advances, it is becoming increasingly clear that these methods may not be the most effective in ensuring success for educational institutions. Classroom sessions, textbooks, and lengthy tests are keywords that come to mind when we think of traditional education. But are they truly helpful in preparing students for the real world?
The world we live in today demands a different set of skills and competencies than those emphasized by traditional education methods. These can be adaptability, digital literacy, effective communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. They can also include empathy and cultural competency. While classroom sessions provide valuable face-to-face interaction with teachers and peers, they often limit students’ ability to explore topics at their own pace and delve deeper into their areas of interest.
Textbooks, while containing a wealth of knowledge, can quickly become outdated in this rapidly evolving digital age. Additionally, they may not cater to different learning styles or engage students effectively. Lengthy tests centered around memorization and regurgitation of information may not necessarily promote critical thinking or problem-solving skills. These are essential for success in today’s dynamic workforce.
In order to ensure the success and effectiveness of educational institutions, it is crucial to embrace alternative approaches that leverage technology. Institutions must also adapt to the changing needs of learners. Incorporating interactive online platforms, blended learning models, project-based assessments, and personalized learning experiences can better equip students with the skills they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.
By embracing innovation in education and challenging traditional norms, we can create an environment where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning journey. This will help foster creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, adaptability, and digital literacy. These skills are highly valued by modern employers. Microlearning is one such innovative approach that can bolster growth and success for educational institutions.
What is Microlearning?
Microlearning is a learning approach that involves delivering small, bite-sized pieces of educational content. It is designed to be flexible and convenient for learners. It is based on Ebbinghaus’ “Forgetting Curve” and his studies of human memory.
Microlearning involves dividing complex topics into short units of content. These pieces of content can be viewed or read from anywhere, and at any time. Study materials for microlearning are created to be consumed typically within five to ten minutes. This allows the learner to review the material wherever and whenever necessary. |
Microlearning transforms the learning experience for students. It uses interactive digital media to infuse fun and engagement into learning. Students can actively enjoy their educational journey, creating a more conducive environment for academic growth. Moreover, microlearning uses AI-based spaced repetition. This reinforces information at strategic intervals, which enhances knowledge retention. The result? Swift comprehension of concepts, facilitating a smoother path towards academic excellence.
Microlearning in education
The success of an educational institution depends heavily on its ability to adapt and innovate in response to evolving teaching methods. Microlearning in education brings significant benefits for both teachers and students alike. This approach improves learning outcomes. It also enhances the success and reputation of educational institutions, as they continue to evolve with the changing demands of modern education.
Microlearning for students
Microlearning in education is beneficial for students and also has a positive impact on the overall functioning and reputation of the institution. Microlearning in education can lead to improved academic performance of students, cost-effective resource allocation, and a competitive advantage in the education sector.
1. Enhanced academic performance: Improved student engagement and knowledge retention lead to better academic outcomes. Higher student achievement levels can enhance the reputation of the school and attract more students and parents.
2. Increased efficiency in teaching: Microlearning in education allows educators to focus on targeted, high-impact content delivery. This efficiency in teaching can free up time for other important tasks, such as lesson planning, assessment creation, and professional development.
3. Customized learning paths and individualized attention: Tailoring teaching through microlearning in education ensures that each student’s unique needs are met. This personalized approach can lead to better student satisfaction, reduced dropout rates, and increased word-of-mouth recommendations.
4. Data-driven decision making: Microlearning platforms in education offer comprehensive analytics on student advancement and achievements. Educators and admin can use this data to identify areas for improvement. They can adapt teaching methods and refine curriculum design.
- Knowledge gap analysis reports offer a comprehensive assessment of student proficiency. They highlight specific areas of strength and weakness. These reports allow educators to tailor instruction, create targeted interventions, and refine curriculum content. This data-driven approach ensures a more effective and personalized learning experience, ultimately enhancing educational outcomes for the institution.
5. Cost-effective resource allocation: Microlearning in education uses digital, mobile-based delivery. This reduces the cost of physical materials like textbooks and printed worksheets. Additionally, microlearning in education can optimize classroom space utilization by minimizing the time spent on traditional lectures, allowing for more diverse and interactive learning experiences.
6. Adaptability to technological advances: Embracing microlearning in education demonstrates the school’s commitment to staying at the forefront of educational technology. This positions the institution as forward-thinking and innovative, potentially attracting tech-savvy educators and students.
7. Competitive advantage and differentiation: Schools that adopt microlearning in education gain a competitive edge in the educational landscape. It showcases a progressive approach to teaching and learning, which can be a compelling factor for prospective students and parents when choosing a school.
8. Preparation for lifelong learning: By exposing students to microlearning in education, schools instill a learning mindset that extends beyond the classroom. This can lead to students becoming more self-driven learners, which is a valuable skill in today’s rapidly changing world.
Microlearning for teachers
One of the key advantages of microlearning is its ability to streamline training for educators. Rather than overwhelming teachers with lengthy training sessions or cumbersome materials, microlearning allows them to access concise and focused content that can be consumed at their own pace. This approach not only saves time, but also ensures educators can quickly grasp and apply new concepts in their classrooms.
Elevated teaching quality and student learning outcomes: Well-trained educators who have access to targeted microlearning resources are better equipped to employ effective teaching methods. This leads to improved student engagement, comprehension, and academic performance.
Adaptability to changing educational landscape: Microlearning emphasizes continuous professional development, allowing educators to stay updated with the latest teaching methodologies, technologies, and pedagogical approaches. This positions the school as adaptable and forward-thinking in the face of evolving educational trends.
Attracting and retaining high-quality educators: Offering accessible and relevant microlearning opportunities is an attractive proposition for prospective educators. It signals that the school is invested in the growth and development of its teaching staff, potentially attracting top talent. Additionally, a robust professional development program can enhance educator job satisfaction, leading to higher retention rates.
Alignment with educational goals and standards: Microlearning can be tailored to align with the specific educational objectives and standards of the school. This ensures that all educators receive consistent, targeted training that directly supports the school’s mission and vision.
Improved school reputation and stakeholder confidence: A well-trained teaching staff is a significant asset to any school. It instills confidence in parents, students, and the broader community, leading to positive word-of-mouth and a strong reputation. This enhanced reputation can lead to increased enrollment and support from stakeholders, ultimately benefiting the school’s long-term sustainability.
Cost-efficiency and resource optimization: Microlearning can often be delivered at a lower cost compared to traditional professional development methods. It reduces expenses associated with in-person workshops, travel, and printed materials. By optimizing training resources, schools can allocate their budgets more strategically, potentially expanding the scope and reach of professional development opportunities.
Cultivation of a learning community: Microlearning encourages a culture of continuous learning among educators. This fosters collaboration, idea-sharing, and a sense of collective growth within the teaching staff, creating a positive and innovative educational environment.
This brings us to an ideal example of microlearning in education: RapL has enabled LearnX to create a comprehensive suite of quizzes, surveys, and reference documents. Specifically designed for teachers, these resources aim to help them navigate the complex situations they encounter in their daily work. These cover a wide range of topics, including issues related to students, colleagues, and effective strategies for addressing them. The LearnX microlearning materials are designed to empower teachers with the knowledge and skills needed to leverage technology in the classroom, enhance their teaching abilities, and effectively meet the requirements of students with various needs.
One of the key focuses of content formats like quizzes and surveys is to provide teachers with the tools they need to create and implement effective lesson plans. The resources also include strategies for engaging students in the classroom, creating interactive and dynamic learning experiences, and addressing the emotional needs of students. Additionally, the LearnX microlearning materials for LearnX cover various topics, including classroom management and fostering a positive learning environment.
By providing teachers with a wealth of valuable resources in a convenient microlearning format, RapL and LearnX empower educators with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful. Whether they are new to the profession or have many years of experience, teachers can gain new skills in a flexible and time-efficient way. This use of microlearning in education can help them upscale at their own pace, without being overwhelmed by large courses and training modules. They can channel their energy and time into creating a more engaging and effective learning environment for their students, ultimately leading to better outcomes and a more fulfilling career.
In conclusion, the integration of microlearning in education offers numerous benefits for both teachers and students alike. By optimizing knowledge delivery through bite-sized modules, educational institutions can enhance student success rates while improving their overall reputation within the academic community. RapL is an award-winning provider of microlearning solutions. To know more about how microlearning can help your institution, contact us at hello@getrapl.com.
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Dear reader, thanks for being with us all the way till the end. We suggest 2 things from here
1. Speak to us if you want a microlearning strategy deep-dive: Microlearning is extremely effective, if approached sensibly. Microlearning is the answer to today’s shortening attention spans and we know how to make learning successful via microlearning. Drop your context here and we shall partner with you for the rest.
2. Lap up more content: We have written some intense literature on how microlearning is the superglue between people and successful business operations. Access all of it here.
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