Empowering college students with microlearning: small bits, big impact

In the fast-paced world of today, where information is at our fingertips, traditional methods of learning are undergoing a transformation. Enter microlearning, an innovative approach that has gained popularity for its effectiveness in knowledge retention and learning efficiency. Dr. Kulwant Kaur from School of Information Technology at Apeejay Institute of Management & Engineering Technical Campus, Jalandhar, highlights, “Microlearning is a new approach to skills-based education and hold significant importance in today’s age for the student to learn and grow. This methodology aligns with the growing digital-native generation learners while using interactive multimedia tools. It empowers students to learn effectively and efficiently. By using microlearning, educators can nurture a dynamic and engaging learning environment that fosters continuous growth and development for students in today’s rapidly changing world.”

Further, Associate Professor at Apeejay Stya University Manpreet Sehgal says, “If the environment is full of learning metaphors, and the mind is full of curiosity, we start developing problem-solving acumen. While solving problems in the real-world, we need ideas and the ideas are a product of an active mind infused with microlearning episodes.”

Thus, the Apeejay professor mentions that it was through the microlearning process of the ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes that he discovered the law of buoyancy, which is popularly known as the Archimedes’ principle.  

So what is microlearning?

Microlearning is a pedagogical strategy that involves delivering content in small, easily digestible units, enabling students to acquire knowledge rapidly and conveniently. “We, as human beings, keep on observing and learning from surroundings, either actively and proactively. The moment we activate our senses when we wake up, we start learning, knowingly or unknowingly. When we close our senses, which is when we are asleep, our brain subconsciously delves into the learned content and carves out dreams,” highlights Prof Sehgal. 

What are its benefits? This approach has numerous benefits, making it a game-changer for students of all ages. 

The essence of microlearning lies in its brevity and focus on specific learning objectives. Instead of overwhelming learners with lengthy lectures or textbooks, microlearning modules are designed to be concise and engaging. These could be in the form of short videos, quizzes, infographics, or interactive exercises that deliver one key concept at a time. By doing so, microlearning ensures that students can process information quickly and move on to the next topic seamlessly.

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Another significant advantage of microlearning is its flexibility and accessibility. Students can access microlearning content on their smartphones, tablets, or laptops anytime and anywhere, allowing for personalised and self-paced learning. This adaptability is particularly beneficial for students with busy schedules, as they can fit in short learning sessions during breaks or while commuting, making the most of their time.

Is it a better way for knowledge retention?

Certainly so! Research has shown that learners tend to remember information better when it is presented in smaller chunks. By focusing on one topic at a time, microlearning prevents cognitive overload and enhances memory consolidation. This retention of knowledge becomes invaluable when students need to recall information during exams or practical applications.

Additionally, microlearning can improve student engagement and motivation. With its interactive nature and multimedia elements, such as videos, gamification, and animations, microlearning captures students’ attention and sustains their interest. This dynamic learning experience fosters a positive attitude towards learning and helps combat boredom or disinterest that students might experience with traditional teaching methods.

Another advantage of microlearning is its ability to cater to diverse learning styles. Students have different preferences for absorbing information – some are visual learners, while others prefer auditory or kinesthetic methods. Microlearning can accommodate these varied styles by offering a wide range of multimedia content, ensuring every student can grasp the concepts effectively.

Conclusion

Microlearning is revolutionising the educational landscape by delivering knowledge in small, manageable bites. This approach is becoming a powerful tool for students of all ages. As technology continues to evolve, microlearning is likely to play an increasingly vital role in shaping the future of education, making learning more efficient, enjoyable, and effective.