E-learning, blended learning, and microlearning – you are surely familiar with these methods. But do you also know what macrolearning means? In today's article, we would like to introduce you to this learning method compared directly to microlearning – with helpful tips and examples.

In recent years, it has become evident that short, concise content is increasingly relevant for learning. Our attention spans are decreasing, and the majority feel they do not have time for learning phases and further education. It’s no wonder that microlearning has become so popular. After all, it involves very short learning content that can easily be integrated into everyday life.

Reminder: This is Microlearning

Microlearning describes learning in small chunks. The method aims to simplify the learning process by breaking the content into small learning units. This increases the motivation of the participants – and consequently, the learning success! Unlike traditional e-learning, microlearning focuses directly on the learners and their capabilities. Accordingly, there are many areas of application, which are usually geared toward companies and their employees. Everything you need to know about microlearning is summarized in our free e-book:

Download the free microlearning guide

But is microlearning suitable for every learning content? Not necessarily! And that’s exactly why I want to introduce you to macrolearning as a kind of counterpart today.

Defining Macrolearning

Macrolearning is significantly more complex compared to microlearning. It is more of a type of learning system that is designed to be accessible to a large number of learners. Therefore, it is particularly suited for large companies with a multitude of learning employees.

This also means that the content must cover a wide range of different knowledge levels. In macrolearning, learners are not quite as free and flexible as in microlearning; after all, they are confronted with a series of content and instructions that become increasingly complex.

Accordingly, there are different roles in macrolearning: An instructor leads the course and conveys content. Additionally, a coach is often available for specific problems. Furthermore, a mentor helps with implementing what has been learned in professional life, supporting learners in their careers. This learning system cannot be easily adapted to individual needs and extends over a longer period.

Differences Between Microlearning and Macrolearning at a Glance

| MICROLEARNING | MACROLEARNING || ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- || I need help right now | I want to learn something new || <10 minutes | several hours or days || Based on a concept or skill, in as short units as possible | Based on long-term online courses, MOOCs, other educational programs || Videos, texts, articles, quizzes | Includes practical examples and exercises || Independent learning in an online course | Guided learning with a trainer or coach || Learning content is sorted by relevance and personal learning goals | Learning content is planned and timed by a trainer or coach || Are the learning contents helpful, precise, and relevant to the learning goal? | Are the learning contents mandatory and educational for the learning goal? |

Clearly, the two learning methods cannot always be distinctly separated. Therefore, I would like to explain the relationship between micro and macrolearning with two examples. It becomes clear to what extent microlearning is also part of macrolearning and vice versa:

Microlearning vs. Macrolearning Explained by Example

| Level | Learning Elements | Performance Elements | Example 1: Learn a language | Example 2: Solve a typical problem at home || ------------ | --------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------- || Micro Macro | Learning content, trainer input | Competencies | Learn individual vocabulary | Using tools, basic physics knowledge || Learning topics | Individual tasks | Practice whole sentences, understand grammar | Basics, how the sewage system works | || Online courses | Results from one’s own work | Practice fictional situations, conduct conversations | Repairing: changing faucets, cleaning pipes | |

This example comes from eLearning Industry and is inspired by Theo Hug.

Microlearning and macrolearning do not exclude each other! The two learning methods can be combined and, in a sense, merge into one another. In summary, it can be noted that microlearning is much more focused on the learners, while macrolearning describes a broader learning experience. Therefore, it is clear that both methods overlap.

Do you want to learn more about microlearning? Then download our free microlearning guide and feel free to send us a message with any further questions.

Free Guide

The Ultimate Microlearning Guide for Online Courses

Do you want to create your own microlearnings? Then get our free guide now and create your first course in microlearning style.

Download the free microlearning guide

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