Macro vs Micro E-Learning: How Are They Different?

by Tech Addict Writer, Blogger

The market has evolved at a rapid pace in the recent past, especially since the start of the pandemic. This has, then, put the focus on training employees to help them and the companies they work for adapt to changes quickly and remain competitive in the face of growing competition. However, it may be difficult to decide if one should opt for micro- or macro-learning. Here is a quick guide to help ease that decision for you.

Micro-learning is most simply defined as learning delivered in small, easily comprehensible chunks. On average, such learning stretches over 10 to 13 minutes for a single module or unit of learning. Experts across the globe refer to it as a highly employee-focused method; one that not only eases the process of bringing learning to employees but also renders it quite accessible, by the means of multiple media types and more.

1. Advantages:

● A key benefit of micro-learning is that it can be accessed on practically any device
● Such courses can be easily adapted for use across a variety of training structures
● Micro-learning is an agile strategy and is conducive to fulfilling the requirements of professional training needs
● This type of e-learning method is far more cost-effective as compared to other options available in the market

2. Disadvantages:

● Since micro-learning involves brief modules and online training, this type is generally not recommended for dealing with complex processes, skills, or tasks
● More often than not, microlearning courses involve topics and modules that cover topics individually. As a result, they are prone to being fragmented and disconnected, i.e. can lack a flow one generally expects from a learning course.

Now, time to discuss macro learning. First, a brief about what it encompasses. Contrary to micro-learning, micro-learning involves bigger, more intensive concepts. Where micro-learning specializes in the bite-sized, individualistic focus of study, macro learning encompasses more deep, extensive skill sets. Also, it extends over hours and days and not for minutes as in microlearning.

1. Advantages:
● In general, macro-learning involves a tad conventional learning set up and includes mentors, instructors, coaches, etc. to deliver the required training
● A macro-learning course means the required knowledge and information are provided to learners over some time and not all at once.
● This type of learning involves the use of assignments, quizzes, etc. to help instructors evaluate learners’ progress and for learners to demonstrate their understanding and performance

2. Disadvantages:
● One of the main issues with this type of learning is that it can be quite rigid in scheduling, etc.
● Macro-learning also doesn’t offer quick access to specific information
● It can also be inaccessible, in the sense that it can be accessed only in a classroom, LMS, etc.

It is also important to note that the preference for these two learning types is also based on the industries learners’ may be involved in, the role they hold, and their rank in the organization. For example, a study found that 99 percent of participants, employed in the manufacturing sector, believed they are more effective in their job after engaging in macro-learning. Suffice it to say that while planning to undertake digital e-learning platform development, it is critical to factor in the target audience, their unique requirements, etc. to build a platform that can successfully tend to their requirements.