Microlearning: The future of workforce training and development

Fast-paced and dynamic work environments limit the time available to employees to undergo rigorous training sessions, which could potentially disrupt day-to-day work. Organizations and the workforce must constantly adapt to newer technologies, evolving customer expectations, emerging trends, and more. Traditional learning models often fall short, and a modern and agile approach enabling “learning with the flow” is crucial for upskilling employees.

Microlearning is one such method for training and development, and this blog explores the concept in detail.

Unlike traditional training programs, which may involve lengthy courses and in-person workshops, microlearning modules are concise, accessible, and easy to consume. These “bite-sized” lessons focus on one key topic or skill at a time, making learning more manageable and less overwhelming for employees.

The concept is deeply rooted in Hermann Ebbinghaus’s Forgetting Curve theory, which demonstrates that individuals forget approximately 50% of newly learned information within an hour if it isn’t reinforced. Microlearning combats this natural decline in memory retention by breaking training into smaller, repetitive sessions. Learners can revisit key concepts, strengthening their knowledge and ensuring long-term retention

Organizations that prioritize workforce agility and continuous learning are better positioned to thrive in today’s fast-paced business environment. Microlearning offers a practical way for these organizations to keep their teams up-to-date, productive, and engaged.

We have often seen that traditional training sessions lead to disengagement as they can be tedious and complex. On the other hand, short, focused modules are designed to hold the learner’s attention, boosting participation and enthusiasm. Moreover, by delivering information in digestible chunks and reinforcing it over time, this learning methodology helps employees retain knowledge more effectively.

Employees can also access content anytime, anywhere — on their smartphones, tablets, or laptops. The flexibility to fit learning into busy schedules reduces time spent away from core job responsibilities, thus improving productivity. Short training modules are more cost-effective than developing extensive courses, so it’s a win-win for all.

Microlearning aligns perfectly with modern learning preferences, especially among younger generations who prefer on-demand, tech-enabled solutions over lengthy, instructor-led programs.

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To embed this new-age learning and development format into the workplace effectively, organizations need to balance innovation with practicality. The key is to deliver relevant, engaging, and accessible learning experiences that meet employees where they are. Here’s how:

1. Make learning bite-sized and purposeful: Microlearning thrives on brevity and clarity. Design modules that focus on specific skills or knowledge points, eliminating excess.
2. Use technology to your advantage: Employees already use smart devices every day. This familiarity can be leveraged to devise learning modules. A modernized system is also ideal for tracking progress.
3. Prioritize interactivity and engagement: Incorporate videos, animations, and infographics to keep employees visually engaged. Gamify the experience by integrating quizzes, rewards, and leaderboards.
4. Embed learning into daily workflows: Embed quick lessons into existing tools, such as project management platforms or communication apps. Just-in-time resources, like quick-reference guides or mini-tutorials, can also provide valuable support during critical tasks.
5. Blend digital with human touch: Pair digital learning with live workshops or mentoring sessions to reinforce lessons even though it could contradict the concept of microlearning. However, it can be done differently. For example, employees can complete a five-minute tutorial on handling customer complaints, followed by a role-play exercise with their manager.
   
   
   
   
   

Microlearning’s adaptability ensures that it can be tailored to specific business needs. It is a viable training solution across a range of contexts and functions.

Accelerating employee onboarding

The “learning with the flow” methodology simplifies onboarding by delivering digestible lessons on company policies, tools, and values. New employees can access modules as needed, learning at their own pace while quickly becoming productive team members.

Streamlining compliance training

Compliance requirements are complex, mainly due to ever-changing regulations. Breaking the requirements into short, focused lessons ensures employees understand critical regulations without feeling overloaded.

Supporting new technology adoption

Adapting to new tools and software can be daunting, even for seasoned employees. Short, step-by-step tutorials, delivered just in time, help employees learn how to use these tools effectively without disrupting their workflow.

Boosting sales enablement

Sales teams often require on-the-go access to the latest product updates, negotiation strategies, or client-specific insights. Microlearning modules, such as product explainer videos or quick negotiation tips, can be delivered directly to their devices, ensuring they are prepared for customer interactions.

Measuring the effectiveness of new training methods is critical to ensuring they meet organizational goals. As mentioned in the second point of “How to implement microlearning in the workplace,” use technology to your advantage. Engagement metrics, such as completion rates, time spent on modules, and the frequency of revisiting specific lessons, can offer insights into how compelling and useful the content is.

Employee feedback is equally essential. Surveys, for instance, can uncover what the employees find valuable and where improvements are needed. Moreover, linking the learning outcomes to broader business KPIs, such as improved performance, faster onboarding, or increased compliance adherence, quantifies the benefits.

A shift in how organizations approach workforce training and development is essential in an era where agility and adaptability are crucial to staying competitive. Microlearning equips employees with the tools they need to succeed and be ready to revolutionize workforce training.

Also Read:

Thought Leadership by Anish Mukker, CEO TP in India: Creating a culture of learning