Microlearning uses short educational modules and brief activities to teach and reinforce larger concepts or learning objectives. The modules are typically delivered via internet-based programs, sites, or apps.
Microlearning boasts a variety of benefits for the learner. Its brevity is the most obvious: Microlearning content is typically delivered in very short modules that can be completed in 15 minutes or less, so it can be consumed in an “on-demand” format during breaks or downtime.
Because the content is delivered in short bursts, the learner can internalize it quickly in a “need-to-know” fashion.
While applicable across multiple fields, microlearning has shown great potential as a tool in healthcare, particularly:
Promoting self-care for patients attempting to prevent or manage “lifestyle diseases” such as type II diabetes and cardiovascular disease;
App-based weight loss and stress/anxiety management programs; and
Training students in the healthcare professions.