Myths About Micro-learning

Have you heard of the saying, “almost everyone will experience a midlife crisis” or “we only use ten percent of our brains?” If Yes, you are not the only one. It will interest you to know that the above statements are complete fabrications, widespread myths that have been perpetuated for such a long time people think they are facts supported by research and science.

Myths have been a part of human culture for as long as civilization has existed, and there will continue to be more myths fabricated. Some myths are harmless, while some can be detrimental, even dangerous, and affects the quantity of life. In this article, we will be discussing some of the popular myths about Micro-learning.

What is Micro-learning?

Micro-learning is a new and emerging approach to learning that allows an individual to acquire additional information or a new skill in small units over some time. It is a specific, brief, and targeted learning. Micro-learning can take various forms, which include presentations, quizzes, discussions, and so on.

Myth 1: Micro-Learning Can Not Be Used To Teach Complex Topics.

Micro-learning can be used to learn complicated topics. When trying to use Micro-learning to transmit complicated information, the approach in which it is used is essential. Companies like Cisco and IBM and Ving have adapted Micro-learning and used it to teach and reinforce new materials to their employees.

Learning complex topics is possible because Micro-learning is designed to deliver learning in small bits and meet a specific objective(s). It engages the learners, progress can also be noticed easily, and learners do not experience the fatigue associated with other learning methods.

Myth 2: Micro-Learning Is Fragmented Content

Micro-Learning is not just fragmented content taught over time; it is content designed in such a way that the most critical information that will help meet performance objective(s) is presented to the learner in a very engaging and easy to retain manner.

A fragmented course on a subject like Maths, chemistry, and so on is not Micro-learning. In Micro-learning, the emphasis is placed on transmitting the most crucial information. It eliminates a lot of unnecessary information and processes that make learning tedious, and hard to grasp, therefore making it one of the most effective ways of gaining new knowledge as quickly and effortlessly as possible.

Myth 3: Micro-Learning Has a Specific Duration

Depending on the information that needs to be transmitted, the duration of Micro-Learning can be anything ranging from one minute to as much as fifteen minutes or more. Time is a significant factor in this learning approach, and so is after-course performance.

Due to the short time frame, Micro-learning is designed to pass the most critical information that will help reach the performance goals/objectives. Reaching this particular performance goal is when a micro-learning unit is complete.

Myth 4: All Micro-learning is Autonomous

Micro-learning can be autonomous, self-directed learning such as using apps like Dualingo to learn a new language or using Pinterest to learn DIY hacks. It can also be non-autonomous like using online translation services like The Word Point to help acquire new language skills.

In fact, lots of companies and other organizations use regimented Micro-learning programs to pass information or teach new skills to their employees. This is because companies are looking for ways to train and improve the skills of their employees in a quick, effective, and time-saving manner to reach their goal.

Check out tools like Ving to purchase customizable microburst safety training for your company.

Myth 5: Micro-Learning Replaces eLearning

A lot of people have this misconception that Micro-learning supplants e-learning, and they sometimes use the words interchangeably, thinking it is the same thing. E-learning is a type of learning that is carried out with the use of electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, computers, and so on to transmit information.

Micro-learning can be e-learning, but not all Micro-learning is e-learning. Traditional courses can also be e-learning. Micro-learning can be taught in a traditional classroom setting, a board room, or any other physical setting.

Myth 6: Gamification and Videos Are What Micro-Learning Is All About.

A lot of Micro-learning is designed with rich media formats using videos and gamification, but that is not what Micro-learning is all about. Because Micro-learning involves transmitting the most relevant information within a short time frame with the most effective means possible, a lot of gamification and videos are used to convey information effectively. Gamification and videos are used because they are a form of visual learning.

A large percentage of the population are visual learners. A survey carried out stated that ninety percent of information transmitted to the brain is visual, and another study reported that about forty percent of people trying to learn responded much better to information presented visually as opposed to with text. With this knowledge, it is obvious why a lot of Micro-learning uses videos and gamification to pass across information.

Conclusion

I hope this article has been able to properly inform you about micro-learning and debunk the popularly held myths surrounding this learning approach. The benefits of microburst training and learning are numerous to both individuals and companies. These benefits include helping learners retain concepts in a short period of time, and helping companies train their employees in a targeted and efficient way in order to achieve a particular goal. This learning approach is also easy to update, very affordable, can be implemented by both individuals and companies, and has a high impact on learners.

Frank Hamilton is a blogger and translator from Manchester. He is a professional writing expert at WriterSquad company in such topics as blogging, digital marketing, and self-education. He also loves traveling and speaks Spanish, French, German, and English.