User:Umelsa/Microlearning

The concept of Microlearning originates from a Greek word 'Micro' that means 'small'. It refers to a set of compact e- learning modules that are based mainly keeping the 'learner fatigue in mind. The learning modules could be educational, professional, or skill based. These modules are designed in short and  concise units with a single learning objective or topic that are usually less than 20 minutes long

Concept:
As an instructional technology, microlearning focuses on the design of learning modules through micro steps in digital media environments. These activities can be incorporated into learner's daily routines and tasks. Unlike "traditional" e-learning approaches, microlearning often tends towards push technology through push media, which reduces the cognitive load on the learners. In a wide sense, microlearning can be understood as a metaphor which refers to micro aspects of a variety of learning models, concepts and processes and is capable enough to address challenges associated with learning. Breaking the information down into topical, bite-sized chunks helps to increase attention and promotes higher retention rates. Research shows that microlearning can result in significant increase of exam pass rates (up to 17%). The technique has also been shown to increase in confidence level of the learner. The concept of Microlearning is not only functional for Online courses, but also for skilled based learning, professional development, programming modules.

Framework:
Microlearning framework is characterized by the following parameters

Time: Microlearning modules are specifically designed as concise and short courses.

Content: The design allows course content to be divides into smaller segments that would usually cover a single topic.

Curriculum: A short course covering a specific topic or a series of short courses covering a bigger module.

Form: It could vary depending on its intended use like knowledge nuggets, episodes, skill sets etc.

Process: The process of microlearning involves an integrated learning segment that could be in the form of in person session, video, text, followed by an assessment to gauge performance of the learner.

Media: In person or In class, distance learning or remote both of which may be based on multimedia activities.

Action Plan:
Microlearning Activity can be designed as an individual or as a group learning experience with appropriate prompts to gauge performance of the learners. The focus however is to keep the information short and relevant in order to maintain concentration. The activity itself could include either of the following; reading a paragraph, listen to an informational podcast, watch a video clip, or an infographic etc. Once observation of the content is completed, it is then followed by assessment in the form of short quizzes, Microgames, reflection of viewed content etc. The content of the design depends upon the mode of delivery. For example, An informational podcast would be more suitable for self paced learner who have access to the relevant source on the other hand reading a paragraph from the book could be more functional for more traditional learners.