Microlearning Shots: Spaced Learning Path Breakdown

Hey there, fellow microlearning enthusiasts!

What makes the magic of spaced learning happen? The secret isn’t just spreading content over time — it’s about crafting connections that make complex ideas click. In this episode of Microlearning ☕️ Shots, I’ll break down how I built a learning path. You’ll see exactly how I structure content progression, where I place knowledge checks, and how I maintain engagement throughout the learning journey.

The Learning Path

Course 1: Mastering the spacing effect with strategic repetition

Course 2: Mastering spaced learning intervals for complex skills

Course 3: Mastering effective recall strategies in spaced learning

⏳ Design time: 2,5 hours
(a large part of this time went into creating custom visuals)

1. Plan your spaced learning path

In a spaced learning campaign, a solid plan means the difference between a random pile of facts and a coherent skill-building journey. It's about connecting the dots before your learners even see the picture.

What's your end game? A team that can troubleshoot like pros? Managers who can motivate in their sleep? Your plan is the GPS that'll get you there.

• Define clear objectives for each module
• Break complex topics into smaller, connected pieces
• Plan a mix of "tell" and "do" elements
  

Example: In our sample path, we've got three courses. Each builds on the last, creating a cohesive learning journey.

2. Structure your micro modules

A well-structured microlearning module guides your learners from curiosity to comprehension, keeping them engaged every step of the way. It's the difference between a forgettable info-snack and a memorable learning feast.

Think of each module as a mini-story, creating a learning rhythm that resonates with how our brains actually process and retain information.

• Start with an eye-catching title card
• Hook 'em with a key insight or intriguing fact
• Alternate between info delivery and interactive elements
• Use role-play scenarios to show real-world applications
• End with a recap or teaser for what's next to reinforce key points and maintain interest across modules

‍Example: In the "Mastering the spacing effect" module, we start with a title card, then dive into a key insight about how spaced repetitions can dramatically reduce training time. We follow this with a mix of information cards and interactive elements, including a role-play scenario with a skeptical manager.

3. Sprinkle in spaced learning and interleaving

Imagine your 7taps modules as a garden. Spaced learning is like giving your plants just the right amount of water regularly, rather than flooding them all at once. Interleaving is like planting complementary species together, fostering a rich ecosystem of knowledge.

This approach encourages learners to see connections between ideas, apply their knowledge in diverse situations, and maintain a lasting grasp of the material.

• Revisit key concepts across modules
• Mix related skills within sessions to improve discrimination between concepts and enhance flexible thinking.
• Gradually increase time between reinforcement sessions

💡 Bjork and Bjork's (2011) desirable difficulties framework suggests that interleaving, while making learning feel more difficult, leads to better long-term outcomes.

Example: In our path, we introduce the interleaving technique in action when presenting stakeholder communication tips.

4. Design for confidence building

When we spread out learning over time, it's easy for learners to feel a bit wobbly — like they're not making progress as quickly as they would in a traditional cram session. That's where smart confidence-building comes in.

By weaving confidence boosters throughout your 7taps modules, you're not just making learners feel good (though that's a nice bonus). You're actually turbocharging the effectiveness of your spaced learning approach. How? Well, confident learners are more likely to stick with the program, engage deeply with the material, and apply what they've learned in real-world situations.

Start easy and gradually ramp up difficulty — this approach builds learners' confidence and maintains their motivation, aligning with Bandura's (1977) self-efficacy theory, which emphasizes that early successes boost confidence and persistence.

• Give immediate feedback on quizzes and exercises to correct misconceptions on the spot and reinforce correct knowledge.
• Use encouraging language, even for wrong answers, to maintain their motivation and foster a growth mindset.

Example: In our sample path, we generously share feedback and possible solutions, ensuring a clear understanding of the theoretical concepts.

5. Create a cohesive experience

Creating cohesion isn't just about looking polished. It's about building a narrative that sticks. It's about crafting connections that make complex ideas click. Have you ever binge-watched a great TV series? That "just one more episode" feeling? Each module should leave your learners hungry for the next, all while reinforcing what came before.

• Craft a consistent visual identity across modules

Our sample path uses a consistent color scheme and minimalist illustrations throughout, creating a unified visual experience.

• Develop a narrative thread

Each course should build on the previous one, creating an 'aha!' moment when it all comes together. Use callbacks to previous modules and foreshadowing of what's to come. Notice how our path starts with the basics of the spacing effect, then builds to complex skills, and finally ties it all together with recall strategies? That's narrative cohesion in action.

• Create a consistent voice

Whether you're going for "wise mentor" or "encouraging friend," keep your tone consistent. Our sample path maintains a friendly, conversational tone throughout, using phrases like "Picture this:" and "Ready to hear their perspective?" to engage learners consistently.

• Use recurring elements

It could be a mascot character, a particular type of challenge, or a reflection prompt. These familiar touchpoints create a sense of continuity. In each module of our sample path, you'll meet a manager and an 'advisor' engaged in a dialogue. This recurring scenario not only creates consistency but also provides a relatable context for applying new concepts.

• Link concepts across modules

The third module on recall strategies directly references the spacing effect introduced in the first module, tying the entire path together.

So, armed with these insights and inspired by my sample path, it's time to unleash your creativity in 7taps. And remember, every great spaced learning path starts with a single step — or in our case, a single tap!