Microlearning is becoming extremely valuable as a training strategy, and rightly so. A recent study by Training Magazine found that businesses that use Microlearning have seen a 20% increase in employee productivity and a 23% increase in employee satisfaction. Additionally, a study by the Association for Talent Development found that microlearning can increase retention rates by up to 20%.
These increases are too big to ignore. Small wonder, then, that 72% of companies are planning to use more microlearning in future, and that 98% of organisations who have already used it plan to continue to use it as part of their L&D strategy. It just makes sense. This blog is designed to explain exactly what the benefits of microlearning are, and how it can make an impact in your business.
Some of the benefits of Microlearning:
Saves time and money – No need for lengthy training sessions, microlearning reduces the time and resources needed to train staff.
Increases employee engagement – Microlearning can be interactive and engaging, using a combination of training methods like animation, gamification, and podcasts so learners can learn in their preferred way. Shorter courses stop employees ‘tuning out’ and deliver what they need to learn.
Relieves brain drain – When used well, Microlearning helps to break down complex topics and ideas into smaller ones which can be more easily digested. This reduces the mental burden on learners, so they can focus on the specific skills they need rather than unnecessary clutter. In other words, microlearning stops people from feeling overwhelmed with information.
Customised learning experience – Different learners want different things out of their learning experience. Watching a presentation during traditional long-form learning works for some people, but not everybody. People are unique, and they have different needs and preferences in the way they learn. Customising the learning experience with microlearning helps enhance employee engagement and leads to better learning outcomes, as well as increased employee satisfaction and wellbeing.
Fosters a learning culture – When businesses use microlearning, they’re showing that they care about employees' development. It promotes a culture of continuous learning – learners know that if they need to learn a skill, they can have access to training quickly and easily. This streamlined approach to learning is ideal for innovation and growth, and leads to greater employee retention. Why go elsewhere when your learning needs are being met?
Increases information retention – Learners are more likely to remember information presented in little chunks. Short and focused modules enhance information retention.
Take control of schedule – Knowing that training can be taken quickly at any time, anywhere, allows employees to plan around their own schedule. Learning at their own pace like this helps with overall productivity – they won’t have to stop-start around regular work tasks, nor will they have to abandon full days’ worth of work to begin upskilling.
Increased participation – Because learners actively participate in microlearning, rather than simply watching a presentation, they are invested in their own development.
Solve problems in a timely way – Sometimes, learners just want to know a specific skill, like writing Excel formulas or how to insert imagery into social posts. With microlearning, they can easily and independently learn these skills without having to wait for a formal training session. With the workforce becoming more hybrid, it’s more difficult or time-consuming to ask colleagues for help, so this approach empowers learners, making them more productive.
So, Why Microlearning?
Microlearning is becoming an increasingly valuable training strategy for businesses. The benefits of microlearning include saving time and money on training, increasing employee engagement, relieving information overload by breaking down topics, customising the learning experience and much more. With microlearning, complex topics are presented in focused, digestible chunks. This streamlined approach meets diverse learner needs and promotes innovation and growth.
The advantages of microlearning are clear. Short, customised training modules lead to better outcomes and create a culture of learning. Employees can learn at their own pace, in their preferred ways, without taking extensive time away from work. Microlearning empowers employees to develop skills independently and solve problems in a timely manner. It’s time to embed it in your company.
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