3 Best Practices For Creating Effective Microlearning Videos

Video based microlearning is becoming the primary way to effectively train customers and employees. If you're not sure what microlearning is, checkout this article first. There are a multitude of benefits that microlearning offers such as better learning outcomes, higher rate of engagement, mobility, and faster professional development, to name a few. However, before making a transition to a microlearning strategy, your organization should spend some time assessing your intended audience's learning requirements and how they can be addressed effectively with short specific bursts of information. Following the best practices listed below will also ensure that your learning objectives are properly met.

Each Video Should Be Standalone

The fundamental principle behind microlearning videos is that each subject matter should standalone. Thus, a module must focus on a single concept rather than combining multiple theories. This will preserve the benefits of microlearning; this way a learner will not get overwhelmed, but will actually be able to understand and retain the knowledge delivered in the video. 

Videos Should Be Designed Sequentially

Though microlearning videos are created on a standalone basis, their sequence still plays a pivotal role in maintaining their effectiveness. A microlearning course designed sequentially will ensure that customers/employees with less experience have a pathway to follow when learning about a specific subject and can leave complicated material until they master the basics. Similarly, it enables seasoned individuals who don’t need to learn the basics, to skip to relevant material.

For example, I developed a course for individuals that want to learn to edit videos using Apple's iMovie. The first 12 video lessons cover the basics and are designed to be watched in order. The remaining videos cover more advanced features and can be watched in any order. I let all my students know this so they can watch all the modules in the appropriate order according to their level of knowledge on the subject. You can preview the course at https://www.udemy.com/masteringimovie if you want to see an example of what I'm referring to.

Less is More

Microlearning courses are specifically designed to save time and increase retention so that customers/employees can focus on their day-to-day tasks while applying the knowledge that they learn from the training. Therefore, the content of microlearning videos should be relevant and must focus on critical learning material. Keeping the duration of the modules brief is the most effective path to efficacious learning. I suggest 3 minutes or less when possible, and it's almost always possible :)

Final Thoughts

There is no secret formula for creating successful microlearning videos, but keeping your videos short and to the point (typically only one point at a time) will make your videos effective. You may also take additional steps such as incorporating offline capabilities or adding infographics, games, and quizzes to further increase the effectiveness of your microlearning videos.

Do you have any questions about microlearning? Let me know - Steve@ClearPointVideo.com