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In this information-rich age we are constantly taking in pieces of information through a variety of means and media and applying it instantly. A recent statistic shows we now have a slightly shorter attention span than goldfish (8 seconds). Some experts say it represents an inability to pay attention (or maybe that’s the extent of our tolerance for boring content). Others indicate that our ability and appetite to rapidly absorb snippets, videos, and sound bites has rapidly increased. Microlearning is a clear example of the latter.
Because learning is a process that takes place over time let’s consider “microlayering” – plotting small but vital knowledge points throughout our learning curve. These can and should be short, frequent, and intentional learning moments that help keep us motivated and increase our knowledge. The truth is, most of our learning occurs in context of our work and life experience while only a moderate percentage occurs through formal learning experiences (70-20-10 Framework).
What is an appropriate duration of a microlayer? While our “attention span” may be short, our ability to remain alertand engagedin the right setting is about 20 minutes with 2-3 minutes of recovery time afterwards (Maklouf, April 2015). Microlearning leverages resources around us. Examples include online topic searches, quick chats with peers, trade journal articles and videos, and short meet-ups with colleagues. These should be easy, interesting, and a little fun (why else would we do it)?
It’s to our advantage to leverage current trends for collecting and informally sharing knowledge – whether we’re developing our own skills or the talents of our teams. Microlearning may never replace formal methods for learning complex and critical skills. However, layering small ongoing learning activities can help us maintain interest and motivation to continually pursue knowledge. This way we’ll get the support we need to effectively mitigate the notorious forgetting curve.
How do you layer microlearning into your routine?