When it comes to learning, choosing the right methods is crucial to better understand the topic and make it easier to remember. In a perfect world, that would be the ideal situation, but because there are a lot of other factors that affect our learning, focusing has become a struggle. Lately, microlearning courses have become more popular, but others claim that traditional learning covers all bases. In today’s article, we’ll be discussing the difference between the two and which is the better learning method.
All about traditional learning: a timeless and classic approach.
Traditional learning is all about studying in a controlled environment wherein learners are required to attend classes and are supervised by instructors. All the things they learn are derived mostly from books, lectures, and experiences. Although this has been the avenue of learning since centuries ago, we cannot deny that there are some limitations to this method since it can be time-consuming and less engaging for today’s learners.
Characteristic traits of traditional learning.
It’s led by an instructor. As mentioned earlier, traditional learning methods usually have an instructor to guide the learners and deliver content through lectures and discussions.
It has a fixed schedule. Another notable characteristic of this method is that the learners are required to attend classes at a set time and place. This eliminates flexibility, requiring you to commit to it if you want to learn.
There’s a curriculum to be followed. The learning process of this method is very linear and makes no room for adjustments because it follows a certain curriculum; the speed of each class is dependent on how fast or slow your instructor is.
It’s more passive learning. Lastly, traditional learning methods are limited to the instructor speaking and the occasional recitation, leaving little to no room for other engagements and discussions.
A modern take: microlearning and how it has adapted to the digital age.
Opposite of traditional methods, we have microlearning courses, which are every bit contrary to the former. It’s a short module full of bite-sized information that is easy to understand and straightforwardly discusses the topic. One course usually takes at least 5 and a maximum of 20 minutes to finish, which makes it easy to squeeze in between schedules. Because of this, the learning time is cut down since it only focuses on the discussion of the specified topic but also keeps the learners engaged through various simulations. So if you’ve got your hands full juggling between your business and learning a new course but couldn’t commit to a classroom setup, this could be the solution to your problem.
Here are other notable characteristics of micro-learning courses:
It’s self-paced learning. Because the courses are pretty concise, you can take them anywhere and anytime, whenever it’s convenient for you.
It has interactive content. Unlike the traditional method, their modules ask questions and do surveys, paired with interactive elements that boost engagement.
It’s mobile-friendly. Finally, micro-learning courses can be easily accessed on your mobile devices, making them one of the best and most flexible ways of learning.
