Big Learning Goals? Try Thinking Smaller. The Power of Microlearning.

You know how busy your learners can get.  On top of the day job there are emails, meetings, Teams notifications, project deadlines... and somewhere in between, they’re expected to complete training.

It’s no wonder traditional courses often get left till Friday afternoon (or forever).

That’s where Microlearning comes in. Ok, so it’s more of a technique rather than a model, but still. It’s an approach that’s tailor-made for the way we work and live today. It offers small, specific bursts of learning that are easy to access, quick to complete, and surprisingly powerful.

But for all the buzz, there’s still a lot of confusion about what microlearning really is and isn’t.

What Is Microlearning, Really?

Microlearning is about delivering content in bite-sized chunks that focus on a single learning objective.

That might be:

• A 90-second explainer video

• A quick quiz

• A checklist or flashcard

• A short interactive scenario

• A one-pager delivered via mobile

  
  

The term was first introduced by Hughes and Lancelot in the early 2000s, and has since been embraced by organisations looking for high-impact, low-disruption learning strategies.

But here’s the key: microlearning is about sharp focus rather than just short content.

Each piece should do one thing, and do it well.

Why Microlearning Matters Now More Than Ever

In a digital world, attention is precious. Microlearning meets people where they are, be it on mobile, in the flow of work, or between meetings. It helps them:

·        Learn at their own pace

·        Retain more through repetition and reinforcement

·        Apply knowledge immediately

·        Fit learning into their real lives, not around them

For organisations, that means:

• Faster onboarding

• Continuous upskilling

• Higher engagement

• Measurable outcomes without a huge time investment

  
  

Done well, microlearning becomes part of your culture, supporting performance, not just ticking a training box.

Microlearning Misconceptions: Let’s Clear Things Up

There’s a lot of buzz around microlearning, and a few myths too. Let’s bust them:

MYTH 1: “Microlearning is just chopping up a course into smaller bits.”Not quite. Microlearning isn’t about slicing a 60-minute course into six 10-minute videos. It’s about designing content with a singular goal from the outset.

MYTH 2: “It’s only for junior roles or simple topics.”Nope. We’ve used microlearning to support executive decision-making, technical upskilling, and leadership development. It’s all in the design.

MYTH 3: “Short equals shallow.”Absolutely not. When focused and well-executed, a 2-minute video can drive real behaviour change, albeit one that’s reinforced over time.

If you’re not using microlearning yet, you’re not behind. You’re just in the perfect place to start designing smarter.

How Popcorn Makes Microlearning Work

At Popcorn Learning Agency, microlearning is a mindset.

We design custom eLearning content that’s made to stick, from the first second to the final action. Here’s how we do it:

• Laser-focused learning objectives that deliver on business goals.

• Animated and filmed micro-videos built for mobile, LMS, or social platforms.

• Interactive microlearning modules that fit into any workday.

• Reinforcement strategies to boost retention over time.

• Learning impact evaluation to measure what matters.

  
  

We’ve delivered microlearning on everything from ESG compliance to customer service skills, leadership development to product knowledge. Each one is built to deliver results, not just runtime.

Final Thoughts: Think Small to Win Big

Microlearning is a response to the way people actually learn today. It’s agile, impactful, and learner-first by design.

And whether you’re just exploring it or ready to take your strategy to the next level, Popcorn’s here to help you make it happen - one bite-sized burst at a time.

Ready to launch microlearning that actually delivers? Let’s chat about how Popcorn’s award-winning content can support your people, wherever and whenever they learn. Or follow us on LinkedIn for more of Popcorn’s Next Top (Learning) Model.