This is a guest post by Matthew Douglas
It’s a fast-paced world, a world where time is of the essence and attention spans are shortening, and thus traditional methods of learning are being challenged by more efficient and effective alternatives. In the AEC industry, this is no different! If you take a second to read any job applications in your field, you can almost guarantee that you see “the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment” as a qualification. To meet this constant need, there has been a rise in one particular method that has gained popularity in recent years: MICRO-LEARNING.
Micro-learning involves the practice of breaking down complex topics into bite-sized, easily digestible chunks of information. This approach facilitates better understanding and retention of knowledge for learners. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok showcase the effectiveness of this method through their short-form content. Step into the world of micro-learning and discover how it can transform your learning experience with these five impactful benefits:
Flexibility and Convenience:
Benefit number one is that micro-learning offers the flexibility to learn at your own pace and convenience. With short, targeted lessons, you can squeeze in a quick learning session during a break at work, while commuting, or even before going to bed. This flexibility allows you to make the most of your time and learn whenever and wherever it is most convenient for you. I like to include micro-learning as a daily habit, during times that I am taking a break or even during a workout.
Improved Retention:
By delivering information in small doses, micro-learning enhances your retention rate. Research has shown that learners are more likely to remember and apply knowledge when it is presented in short, easily digestible formats. This is because our brains are better equipped to process and retain information in smaller chunks, leading to better long-term retention of key concepts.
Quick tip: Pair micro-learning with spaced repetition and you will become a learning machine!
Personalized Learning Experience:
Micro-learning enables a personalized learning experience tailored to individual preferences and needs. You can choose the topics you want to focus on, revisit specific lessons as needed, and skip over content you are already familiar with. This personalized approach ensures that you will stay engaged and motivated throughout your learning journey!
Continuous Skill Development:
With micro-learning, you can engage in continuous skill development by regularly consuming bite-sized learning modules. This approach allows you to build on your knowledge incrementally, mastering new skills one step at a time. By consistently engaging with micro-learning content, you can stay up to date with the latest trends and developments in your field, enhancing your expertise and marketability.
Enhanced Engagement and Motivation:
Micro-learning’s interactive and engaging format captivates and keeps you motivated to learn. By incorporating multimedia elements, quizzes, and gamified elements, micro-learning makes the learning process enjoyable. This increased engagement not only boosts motivation, but also helps you stay focused and committed to your learning goals.
In conclusion, micro-learning offers a range of benefits that can significantly enhance your learning journey. From flexibility and convenience to improved retention and personalized learning experiences, micro-learning is a powerful tool that can help you achieve your learning goals efficiently and effectively. Even more, through EMI’s Learning and Development Lab, you will be able to read about the top learning and development methods in the industry, which could be used in combination to make you a learning machine! So why not give micro-learning a try today?
About the Author:
Matthew currently serves as a content creator and host of The Engineering Project Management Podcast. As a civil engineer by trade, Matthew has developed a passion for construction and stormwater management by way of maintenance and rehabilitation services. Matthew has also had experience working under private consulting firms, and public agencies and has even held a role of an educator, as such, he loves to lead, build, mentor, and help those in need.
Most recently, during his time working for the public sector, he has taken the role of Public Works Operations Manager. There he led quite a few public infrastructure rehabilitation projects and implemented new asset management technologies at a very young age. It is here that the passion for “fixing what’s broken” has developed.
We would love to hear any questions you might have or stories you might share about the ways you use micro-learning to improve your learning efforts.
Please leave your comments, feedback or questions in the section below.
To your success,
Anthony Fasano, PE, LEED AP
Engineering Management Institute
Author of Engineer Your Own Success
