Creating effective microlearning content for m-learning

Compared to other learning media, mobile learning is gaining considerable traction, especially among corporate learners. Content for mobile learning – e-learning delivered via mobile devices – needs to be designed specifically for the medium to deliver better learning results.

Millennials and younger generations are increasingly characterized by lower attention spans and higher digital comfort. This means that shorter content formats such as brief text content, bullet lists, short videos and infographics are preferred to long-form content for younger adult learners. This is especially true for mobile learning, where the size of the device is another impediment to readability. 

However, another (and, in fact, better) way to engage mobile users is through microlearning.

Microlearning consists of delivering bite-sized training units that completely address a specific question or problem on their own. At the same time, microlearning modules often also neatly dovetail into a larger learning program or course. 

By its nature, microlearning is very valuable when it comes to m-learning, and can be delivered through short videos, assessments, games, flashcards or short data delivery in any other format.

Getting started

The first step is to know exactly who your audience is. What are their current skills level? What is the skills gap? What are your learning objectives? Since each module is so short, microlearning content needs to be tailored based on your objectives. Though microlearning is not the primary medium of learning delivery, it needs to be precise in order to reinforce key concepts and material.

Short, specific content

Since the content must be short, ensure that you don’t repeat points. This unnecessarily bloats learning time. Similarly, videos used in microlearning should be short and precise. Keep the content tight and to-the-point.

Design for the medium

When you’re creating graphics and videos for microlearning, ensure that they suit different device sizes. While your learners could use an m-learning or e-learning platform to access microlearning, they are most likely going to view the microlearning content on their mobile devices or tablets. Design static and video content to adapt to suit a wide range of device sizes.

Engaging content style

Use a light-hearted, conversational tone and imagery wherever possible. Use interesting modes of content delivery, such as storytelling, gamification, videos and microassessments. This helps transcend the problem of short attention spans and increase learning engagement. Opt for video wherever possible, and allow your learners to control video play: toggle subtitles on/off, mute/increase/decrease volume, pause, rewind, fast forward or watch again.

Microlearning for adaptive learning

Customize your platform to deliver microlearning content for learners on diverse learning paths, to suit each individual’s needs. Push microlearning and microassessments based on the awareness level of the learner, and adjust their learning path based on their interactions with the microassessments. 

Content is the most important part of your microlearning strategy. When developing microlearning modules, keep them short, specific, engaging and adaptive. Work with Hornbill FX, the e-learning experts, to create microlearning content that works.