Here we offer a guide to microlearning for learning and development teams, including a definition, the benefits for training, and tips on how to make it effective. We also signpost some of the best microlearning providers in the UK and USA – companies with experience in creating bite-sized learning content.
What is microlearning?
Microlearning is the delivery of short, focused learning “bursts” (typically 3–10 minutes) that target a single outcome. The meaning covers various formats, including short videos, interactive questions, scenario snippets, job aids, and micro-simulations—usually mobile-friendly and searchable.
Why use it in L&D?
- Speed to competence: Learners can apply one concept immediately, reducing time off task.
- Better retention: Small chunks with spaced reinforcement minimise cognitive overload.
- Fits modern work: Provides performance support at the point of need.
- Easier maintenance: A 5-minute module is simpler to update than a 45-minute course.
- Blends well: Complements longer programmes as pre-work, nudges, and reinforcement.
How to do microlearning well
- Start with performance outcomes: One micro-asset = one behaviour to change.
- Design for the workflow: Deliver where people work (LMS/LXP, Teams/Slack, intranet, CRM).
- Be ruthlessly focused: Keep only essential steps; link to “learn more” for depth.
- Make it active: Use scenarios, try-its, and single-question challenges—don’t rely on passive video.
- Plan the cadence: Sequence 5–10 micro-assets with spacing (e.g., 2–3 per week) and timely nudges.
- Mobile-first & accessible: Touch-friendly UI, transcripts/captions, and WCAG-compliant patterns.
- Measure what matters: Track completions, attempts, confidence checks, on-the-job error rates, and time-to-competence.
- Build for re-use: Use templates/components so authors can spin up consistent assets quickly.
- Blend with macrolearning: Use micro for moments of need & reinforcement; keep longer formats for complex skills and coaching.
- Own the shelf-life: Assign content owners and review cycles—small assets go stale fastest.
UK eLearning companies with microlearning experience (and case studies)
- First Media (Lincolnshire)
Creative, video-rich microlearning and mobile experiences.- Biobest – 100+ micro-learning modules (multilingual)
- Forensic Access – bite-size content for veterinary CPD
Read about bespoke microlearning development from First Media on their website.
- Aleido Learning UK (formerly Walkgrove)
Blended programmes and in-the-flow performance support in complex, technical contexts.
There is also a useful Aleido guide to effective microlearning available on their website.
- Day One Technologies (West Yorkshire)
Custom learning, simulations, and “learning-by-doing”. - Sponge Learning (Bristol & EU)
Behaviour-change campaigns and flow-of-work bite-sized learning. - Learning Pool (UK-wide)
Platform, content libraries, and analytics-driven learning content.
US eLearning Companies with Bite-Sized Learning Experience (and Case Studies)
- 7taps
An elearning platform focused on rapid content authoring via cards, branching scenarios, quizzes—tailored for bite-sized learning. - Learning Everest
Custom eLearning developer experienced in “learning in the flow of work,” including bite-sized training modules. - Inno-Versity
Learning provider skilled in microlearning transitions for high-impact sectors. - Grovo (New York, NY)
Specialist microlearning platform delivering short, video-based “learning snacks” with quizzes—all SaaS-delivered. - ADP (Learning Bytes platform)
HR solutions provider using microlearning (“Learning Bytes”) to reduce lengthy training to bite-sized lessons.
Quick implementation checklist
- Pick one high-impact workflow and map the top 5 “moments of need”.
- Write 5 micro-objectives (one per asset), each testable with a single question or action.
- Draft a 2-week cadence (6–8 assets) with spaced prompts/reminders.
- Pilot, measure completions + a real performance KPI, then iterate.
