This informal CPD article, ‘Bite-Size Learning: Why Less is Often More’, was provided by iAM Learning, who are transforming the way your workforce trains and retains, using high-end animation, lovable characters and captivating stories to make even the most serious subjects appealing and unforgettable.
Microlearning generally demonstrates higher completion rates than traditional learning approaches. Bite-size learning, or microlearning, breaks complex topics into digestible chunks, which can then be consumed in a few minutes, rather than over hours. It’s designed to fit around the realities of modern working life: We can’t all afford the time or expense for formal training sessions anymore.
Typically, traditional learning involves extended sessions. Days-long workshops, presentations or hours-long e-learning modules. But this approach isn’t necessarily the best for your team. Bite-size learning, by contrast, typically focuses on one concept or skill at a time and delivers training in brief sessions, ranging from 2 to 15 minutes long.
The key difference lies in cognitive load. Rather than overwhelming learners like may happen in long traditional learning formats, focusing on one idea at a time allows people to process and retain information more effectively.1
Are there any benefits to the bite-size approach?
Well, there appear to be advantages to microlearning. Let’s look at some of them:
Accessibility – This is at the heart of the microlearning appeal. Because the learning is shorter, busy professionals can easily fit it into their schedules, even during their commute, coffee breaks, or those brief gaps between meetings. There’s no need to block out large chunks of time for learning. Often, learners can choose when and where they engage with content.
Better retention – Smaller pieces of information are easier to process more efficiently. The spacing effect, a well-documented psychological principle, shows that information learned in shorter, spaced-out sessions is retained longer than information crammed into single, lengthy sessions.2
Improved performance – Studies in the healthcare sector show that microlearning boosts knowledge and confidence, revealing that microlearning modules can also serve as a refresher when individuals want to utilise skills they feel have lapsed.3
Where does bite-sized learning work best?
To be clear, ‘short-form’ learning, such as microlearning, isn’t always appropriate. There are several factors to consider, including whether the subject is suitable, whether it is complex, the overall training budget, the learner’s preferences, and others. It shouldn’t replace comprehensive training programmes; it should complement them. But, for many scenarios, microlearning can really excel. For example:
- Just-in-time learning – delivering exactly the right information at the right moment, like reviewing negotiation tactics before a difficult conversation
- Onboarding – helping new starters build knowledge gradually without overloading them
- Soft skills development – topics such as communication, leadership, and time management all benefit from regular, bite-sized reinforcement rather than intensive workshops
- Refresher training – keeping on top of annual recurring topics like fire safety can be easier with microlearning courses
What kind of microlearning formats are most effective?
Short video content, with sections that last three to five minutes work well for demonstrating processes or explaining concepts, especially if they’re engaging.
Infographics help distil complex information into visual formats that can be quickly absorbed. They’re particularly effective for processes, statistics or step-by-step guides.
Interactive quizzes help reinforce learning and give immediate feedback. They’re excellent for checking understanding and can be surprisingly addictive. People seem to enjoy a challenge, and that can encourage learners to come back for more.
Podcast clips provide audio learning for those who prefer listening to reading when they learn, making them ideal for commuters with limited time to attend formal training.
How do I make microlearning work for my team?
Integrating bite-sized learning needs to be as friction-free as possible in order to access it. You’ll need an LMS to make the most of it. Consider also creating learning pathways where microlearning modules help build towards larger competencies. This will give your learners the feeling of progression, while maintaining the flexibility that many find so appealing.
Today’s professionals need learning solutions that fit their needs. We can’t continue to cram into meeting rooms for ineffective PowerPoint presentations. Bite-sized learning offers a practical approach that respects busy schedules while delivering genuine skill improvement and behavioural change. When learning is designed thoughtfully and integrated properly, even small learning moments add up to a significant long-term impact.
Microlearning isn’t just convenient, it appears to be effective, too. Working with how people naturally process information can create learning experiences that stick.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information from iAM Learning, please visit their CPD Member Directory page. Alternatively, you can go to the CPD Industry Hubs for more articles, courses and events relevant to your Continuing Professional Development requirements.
References:
- How does chunking help working memory? https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29698045/
- The Spacing Effect https://thedecisionlab.com/biases/spacing-effect
- Improved Performance https://mededu.jmir.org/2019/2/e13997/
