Microlearning: Efficient, effective and employer approved
“Stay in ‘Student Mode’, the best leaders I know see learning as a daily practice.”
Simon Sinek
Learning is a never-ending process and is something we should be continually investing in because when we stop learning, we stop growing. However, this is easier said than done for busy professionals; it can seem almost impossible to carve out time for learning.
However, it is important to re-prioritise learning regardless of what level you sit at, as it is essential for our professional growth and personal fulfillment – and microlearning can be a great place to start.
Microlearning courses, are bite-sized, small learning exercises focusing on practical skills and techniques that can be easily implemented into everyday practice. It is at the forefront of workplace management today because it empowers professionals to build their skills without a significant time commitment and can be completed online.
These small learning units come in many forms all of which are highly accessible from anywhere on any device; these include short courses, videos, podcast, audio, articles and more. Microlearning is highly efficient, point-based and effective in teaching valuable insights and skills needed to complete a variety of tasks with confidence.
Not only does this style of learning provide great time efficiencies, but it is also highly effective; research suggests that microlearning increases employee focus and encourages long-term retention by 80%[1]. With this great result it is no wonder it is fast becoming the preferred method of training by employers.
Here’s why employers love microlearning for skill development:
- Better Learning and Retention: Microlearning content often addresses only one to two targeted learning objectives. Small lesson plans and a single learning approach makes it easier for employees to focus and retain information with only relevant information presented.
- Better Engagement: With short, precise, and stimulating content modules, microlearning boosts engagement and focus for better learning in a short period of time. Gamification is also being used to further engagement when completing microlearning courses such as awarding badges for courses completed and/or including levels to measure success.
- Easy Accessibility and Versatility: Microlearning courses are easily accessible to employees with most taking place online and being accessible across a range of devices. With this high level of flexibility, it also means courses can be more easily completed without causing too much disruption to employee productivity during working hours.
- Cost-effectiveness: The cost of microlearning is significantly lower than long term courses such as diplomas or certificates due to the short and sharp nature of the content. This means employers can invest more regularly in upskilling their team and diversify their in-house skills for a stronger team and better workplace culture.
Microlearning is expected to be the future of learning for busy professionals as it allows for flexibility but doesn’t compromise on the learnings offered. It also offers great value for employers as it minimises disruption to the workplace but maximises the skills and confidence of your team.
Upskilling employees is a key strategy organisations can use to reduce the impact of the current skills shortage and futureproof the organisation’s success. It is also a great way to retain employees by making them feel valued by the organisation and attract new talent looking to advance their current skillset. At Zadro, we have invested in creating a microlearning platform called Zadro University (ZU), which brings together a wealth of communications knowledge from experienced professionals. It offers short, sharp and practical courses (Safaris and Excursions) across a variety of areas including public speaking, project management and digital marketing. Visit for more information: zadroagency.com.au/zu/
