Performing better with microlearning

We have actually become a bit spoiled by all the technological advances. It is becoming easier and easier to obtain information. As a result, we expect to be able to access all available information on a subject super fast. Hans Schuurmans, CEO of SkillsTown, explains why microlearning is the answer to this.

Gaining knowledge quickly

As mentioned, we want taking in knowledge to take as little time as possible. Hans sees this trend reflected in customer desires:

"For example, if you want to learn how a certain software system works, you can't spend more months on that. By then the system has already changed three times. Because we live in a world that changes rapidly, we need to have knowledge available to us faster and faster."

"Because we live in a world that changes rapidly, we need to have knowledge available to us faster and faster."

This is one of the reasons why microlearning is on the rise. In microlearning, using short videos, compact texts or other features, you get support when you need it. This is what the essentials on SkillsTown's learning platform are based on. This form of learning helps you perform better. "In 1885, the scientist Ebbinghaus already proved that people forget quickly," Hans explains."If you take a class, after one hour you have already forgotten fifty percent of what was told. After three weeks it is already eighty percent. Fortunately, these days we are no longer dependent on a teacher. We can look up the necessary knowledge at any time, through the Internet on a tablet or our smartphone. This allows us to recall all the knowledge we have forgotten at the time it is needed."

How do we learn?

How do we learn?
Microlearning is also reflected in the 70:20:10 concept, which is talked about a lot these days. Hans explains, "The basis of 70:20:10 is that we learn in different ways. We learn about ten percent formally, for example through training. Twenty percent of our knowledge arises from the things we learn from others. And most of our knowledge comes from our work experience. Microcourses play into this principle, because at work you often don't have time to take a long course or spend hours searching for the right information. You want to learn something quickly and be able to apply it immediately."

Microlearning as a supplement

Still, Hans believes that extended study will never completely disappear. Microlearning does not replace longer courses and training, rather it complements them. Hans explains:"The form of learning you choose depends on your learning goal. If your goal is to become an expert in Excel, you will have to take a complete training course. But if you don't understand a particular function and need it quickly, then you're better off choosing a microcourse."

However, what applies to a micro-course as well as any other online training remains the following: "When it comes to learning, quality and accreditation are very important. We see that it is becoming more important for learners and organizations that an online course has a quality seal of approval. SkillsTown is therefore NRTO-certified and named best trainer of the Netherlands 2020/2021 in the MT1000.

Learning is not an end, but a means

Hans has one last tip for organizations that are or will be actively working with online learning themselves: "Look at your organizational goals and let the learning connect to them. Learning should not be an end in itself, but a means to achieve your organizational goals."

Applying microlearning in your organization?

Make use of a personalized online learning platform for your employees. On this learning platform you will find, among other things, essentials: short, modern microcourses that allow you to quickly acquire knowledge on a specific subject. We also offer learning formats such as e-learnings, webinars and podcasts. So every employee can find his/her own perfect learning combination!

During a no-obligation online demonstration, we will show you the personalization possibilities, give you a taste of our wide range of offerings, and provide personal advice on the deployment and implementation of the platform.