Hi Everyone,
Throughout the week, various activities allowed the opportunity for you to analyze multiple components and dimensions of microlearning. In activity 1, you tested various video clips to determine which would fit the constructed definition of ‘microlearning.’ Activity 2 created the opportunity to participate in a lesson focusing on the benefits and drawbacks for learners when a microlearning strategy is implemented. Through this, you were introduced to Duolingo and the strategies found throughout this platform to assist with language learning. Activity 3 allowed you to explore microlearning ventures and to critically assess the future of these emerging ventures. Please find below the results from each of the activities.
Activity 1: Video Rating and Reviews
The following list provides insights into the average score of each video as rated by the participants.
Using Achievements in Game Design – 4.6 / 5
Nerdy Nummies – 3.6 / 5
Beat Matching How-To – 2/5
Front Flip Tutorial – 1.9/5
Duolingo – 1.5/5
Activity 2: Learners’ Benefits in Microlearning
The majority of the feedback regarding Duolingo as an effective tool for language learning is positive, speaking highly of various strategies that are implemented to assist in the learning process. The use of gamification is a concept that arose in the critique, focusing on the idea of instant feedback and a rewards system, ultimately leads to increased motivation among learners. The adaptive quizzes were viewed as a positive contribution to the platform as a means of tailored assessment for the learner, as well as ensuring mastery of content encouraging the learner to work on weaker areas. Chunking information and repetition were also praised as being effective strategies to help keep the learning environment stress free, and to build on the learning activities.
Activity 3: Entrepreneur Venture Opportunities
While many participants in activity 3 did find favour with microlearning platforms, the platforms explored and critiqued were seen to have a variety of positive aspects as well as major areas for concern. The microlearning platforms that are projected to have the most success are Highbrow, and Daily Bits Of. These platforms both received positive feedback as being easy to navigate, as well as being praised for the large variety of course content that is available to the learner. The focused and condensed nature of content has been suggested as a means of encouraging focused learning in small intervals. However, major concerns for these platforms include bias in content creation, and a lack of quality control in course content and creation. Some concern has also been expressed regarding assessment techniques and strategies, and a lack of feedback to the learner. There is the generalized notion that these microlearning platforms have the potential to be great platforms for learning but with continued improvements to the current landscape.
We hope that you enjoyed the opportunity to analyze microlearning, and the various microlearning ventures that are arising and being utilized in the learning process.
– Josh, Laila, Sarah