The Ultimate Guide to Bite-Sized Learning
The growing use of smartphones and online mediums has transformed the way people access and consume information. This has resulted in a radical change in how organizations deliver their learning content to their workforce, thus enabling the evolution of bite-sized learning.
In other words, bite-sized learning is about small nuggets of information that can be easily consumed by learners via their personal devices, when on the move, or according to their convenience.
Having said that, bite-sized learning is not just about ‘shorter’ modules of 3-5 minutes each. Through this bite-sized learning guide, we shall learn about the following aspects of this popular learning methodology:
What is bite-sized learning? (And what it isn’t)
What are the benefits of bite-sized learning?
What are the limitations of bite-sized learning?
How do you deliver bite-sized learning for your corporate workforce?
Let us get started.
What is bite-sized learning – and what it isn’t?
Bite-sized learning involves small and self-contained nuggets of information (or modules) that typically last for around 5-10 minutes each. The basic idea behind bite-sized learning is that instead of delivering continuous eLearning content (spanning 30-45 minutes), the training is delivered in bite-sized chunks of shorter duration.
Bite-sized learning is not just about "shorter modules" but also about meeting a single learning objective (for example, how to sign into an email account). This is in contrast with traditional training, where multiple objectives are 'crammed' into a single learning module.
Also Read: What is Bite-Sized Learning and what are its benefits?
What are the benefits of bite-sized learning?
There are multiple benefits of bite sized learning including the following ones:
Improved knowledge retention Most people tend to forget 80% of what they learn when traditional training methods are used. By focusing each module on a single learning objective, bite-sized learning helps in better knowledge retention for a longer period.
Enables just-in-time learning Thanks to the use of shorter learning modules, bite-sized learning does not include too much information, making it easier for learners to locate just-in-time information that they need to perform an activity (for example, using a specific feature of a software application).
Enables personalized learning Bite-sized learning can also personalize learning as learners have the flexibility of accessing ‘modules’ in the order of their preference and needs. This improves the learning engagement and motivation among employees.
What are the limitations of bite-sized learning?
It is not all about benefits. Bite-sized learning has its share of drawbacks or limitations, including the following ones:
Takes time to develop Bite-sized learning is not just about creating “shorter” content or videos. It takes a lot of planning and effort to design high-quality learning content that is ‘interesting’ enough to engage with learners. This is one reason why bite-sized learning is designed using techniques like gamification and digital flashcards.
Not suitable for technical content Bite-sized learning is not exactly suitable for technical subjects like learning programming languages or performing complex tasks. Having said that, technical content can be reinforced using bite sized learning apps or for evaluating technical knowledge of learners using online quizzes or assessments.
So, when it comes to the pros and cons of bite-sized learning, the pros far outweigh the cons and make this methodology perfectly relevant and effective.
How do you deliver bite-sized learning to your corporate workforce?
Last but not the least, how can your organization deliver bite-sized learning to the workforce? Here are a few tips that can help you out:
Design your bite-sized learning content based on your organizational goals, which can range from gaining better product knowledge to making better business decisions.
Take your employees into confidence by understanding their knowledge gaps – and the type of online learning technology that they are comfortable with (for example, gamification, learning videos/audios, or animations).
Create your bite-sized learning content in such a way that each learning module is self-sufficient in answering all learner queries and is easy to learn during their free time (for example, while traveling or during coffee breaks).
Design your learning content to be compatible with different platforms and devices including personal computers, mobile phones, tablets, and more.
Integrate your learning content with a third-party learning management system (or LMS) tool for easier delivery to online learners.
Conclusion
For the modern workforce, bite-sized learning offers a convenient and flexible mode of learning new concepts and reinforcing their knowledge. For example, a bite-sized learning app for employees can be used whenever they are traveling or when they have free time.
Owing to its sharp focus on offering services like microlearning and bite-sized learning, Oust Labs, a part of BetterPlace now, is the right partner for enterprises looking to transform workforce training methods. Our solutions are also suited for the growing number of remote workers (or distributed workforce) in the COVID-impacted business environment.
Do you have any questions about bite-sized learning? Do drop us your contact information and we will get back to you.