Microlearning: In the Business of Better Training

As businesses bring on new employees, it is important to provide training that will acclimate newcomers to the job.  Unfortunately, traditional workplace training is often ineffective or nonexistent, leaving employees treading water as they navigate unfamiliar roles.  59% of employees do not receive workplace training, and 40% of those will leave their role within the first year.  Improper workplace training results in an untrained and unsatisfied workforce.

How can businesses change this?  Microlearning is a new training method on the rise.  So far, it has proven successful, with 94% of learning and development professionals reporting that their learners prefer microlearning.  Microlearning weaves small-scale content into the routine of a regular workday, which creates a continuous culture of learning and promotes mastery over certain skills.  It also lowers barriers to engagement, helping all employees participate.

There are four key ways microlearning can make a difference.  For one, it allows employers to fit training into the workday without many constraints.  It also emphasizes reminders, which can improve collaboration, engagement, and retention.  Unlike traditional training, which can be broad and unfocused, microlearning provides targeted and guided practice.  Finally, microlearning personalizes learning to make it more relevant for individuals. 

Studies have shown that microlearning is 17% more effective than traditional training, making it a viable and desirable solution for companies struggling to get the most out of their training.  Employers should consider microlearning as an innovative alternative to traditional workplace training–it might be just the thing to take a business to the next level.

Microlearning - the future of workplace training
Source: Arist
Adam Hansen
 

Adam is a part time journalist, entrepreneur, investor and father.