Microlearning Design Tips
With learners increasingly opting for their smartphones as their learning devices, LMSs (Learning Management Systems) are required to become mobile-friendly. It is evident that microlearning and mobile learning have a clear connection as the demand is growing for short, bite-sized learning nuggets that can be accessed quickly on smartphones. For learning designers, this is where microlearning takes centre stage due to its mobile responsiveness. (Click to read more about Microlearning & The Benefits)
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Microlearning Design Tips
Below we have compiled some tips for effective microlearning design:
- Simplistic design
Ensure the instructional and visual design is simplistic, keeping in mind that learner may be accessing content on a mobile device. - Use graphic and visuals
Try to use graphics instead of large chunks of text as this will help users stay engaged. - Short and Consistent
Microlearning content should be short, easy to navigate with a standardised design. - Diversity of learning formats
Try to use a mixture of micro learning resources so that learners have a toolkit available to choose from.
- Encourage social learning
Try to encourage learners to share resources with each by linking your micro learning to social platforms. - Follow UDL guidelines
Utilise the UDL framework to improve the accessibility of your micro learning content. See below for further details.
Universal Design for Learning & Microlearning
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a framework to improve and optimize teaching and learning for all people based on scientific insights into how humans learn. This tool is used during the implementation of UDL, offering concrete recommendations that can be utilized in any field to make sure that all learners can access and participate in important, ambitious learning opportunities. (CAST. 2022)
By following the UDL framework while developing a microlearning course, it reduces the need for individual accommodation to learners. Furthermore, it supports a more diverse learner populations and allows learners to better demonstrate their knowledge.
The Next Step
The EdTech industry is constantly evolving, and new opportunities are being created every day. Do you want to reach your professional development goals early this year? With our university credit-rated programmes in Digital Learning Design and Instructional Design, you can advance your career and become job ready as a specialist in digital learning design.
Furthermore, you can click here to read our blog about Webinar Highlights: Mobile Learning Fundamentals, which explores design principles, authoring tools, how to roll-out mobile eLearning & the future of the design trend.
References
- CAST. 2022. About Universal Design for Learning – CAST. [online] Available here.
- Katambur, D., 2020. Microlearning Design Guidelines to Follow for Effective Online Learning. Rapid eLearning Blogs – CommLab India. Available here.
- Hays, K., 2017. 8 Guidelines for Designing Microlearning Resources. Available here
- Udlguidelines.cast.org. 2018. UDL: The UDL Guidelines. [online] Available here
- Universal Design for Learning Information for Educators | Mohawk College. (2021, July) Available here