The Benefits of Microlearning in Health Professions Education
Harnessing the Power of Bite-Sized Learning for Busy Healthcare Professionals
In the fast-paced world of health professions education, staying updated with the latest knowledge and skills is crucial. Traditional learning methods often fall short in meeting the needs of busy healthcare professionals. Enter microlearning—a flexible and accessible approach that delivers content in bite-sized chunks, perfect for just-in-time learning.
Flexibility and Accessibility
Microlearning offers unparalleled flexibility. Healthcare professionals can access short, focused learning modules anytime, anywhere—whether it’s during a break, on the commute, or between patient consultations. This approach ensures that learning fits seamlessly into their busy schedules, making it more likely for them to engage with the material.
Just-in-Time Learning
One of the standout features of microlearning is its ability to provide just-in-time learning. This means that healthcare professionals can quickly access the information they need right when they need it. For example, a nurse preparing to administer a new medication can watch a quick video or read a brief article on the correct procedure, ensuring they are well-prepared and confident.
Cognitive Science Principles
Microlearning aligns well with cognitive science principles highlighted in “Make it Stick” by Brown, Roediger, and McDaniel. Two key concepts from the book—retrieval practice and spaced repetition—are particularly relevant.
Retrieval Practice: This involves actively recalling information, which strengthens memory and enhances learning. Microlearning modules often include quizzes and interactive elements that encourage retrieval practice, helping learners retain information more effectively.
Spaced Repetition: Spacing out learning sessions over time improves long-term retention. Microlearning’s short, frequent sessions are ideal for spaced repetition, allowing healthcare professionals to revisit and reinforce their knowledge regularly.
Scientific Evidence
Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of microlearning. For instance, a study by the Journal of Applied Psychology found that microlearning enhances retention and performance by up to 20%1. Another study from the Dresden University of Technology reported that short content drives over 20% more information retention than long-form content2. These findings underscore the effectiveness of microlearning in increasing engagement and retention among learners.
Introducing 7Taps
To leverage the benefits of microlearning, the Geisinger Office of Faculty Development is excited to introduce 7Taps, a microlearning platform designed to create and share engaging learning modules. Through Substack, we will deliver these modules directly to your inbox, ensuring you have easy access to the latest educational content. Stay tuned for more updates and get ready to experience the future of learning! Click on the button, below, to get a taste of what is to come via 7Taps…