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 want to introduce you to this learning method in direct comparison to microlearning – with helpful tips and examples.
In recent years, it has become evident that short, concise content is becoming increasingly relevant. Our attention spans are decreasing, and the majority feel there is no time for learning phases and further education. It’s no wonder that microlearning has become more popular. After all, it’s about providing short learning content that can easily be integrated into everyday life.
Just to remember: This is microlearning
Microlearning describes learning in small bites. The method aims to simplify the learning process by breaking the content down into small learning units. This increases the motivation of participants – and consequently the learning success! Unlike traditional e-learning, microlearning focuses directly on the learners and their abilities. Accordingly, there are many applications, which are usually oriented towards companies and their employees.
But is microlearning suitable for every learning content? Probably not! And that’s precisely why I want to introduce you to macrolearning today as a kind of counterpart.
This is how macrolearning is defined
Macrolearning is significantly more complex compared to microlearning. It is more of a learning system designed to be accessible to a large number of learners. Thus, it is particularly suitable 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 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. For specific problems, a coach is usually also available. Additionally, a mentor helps implement the learning in professional life, supporting learners in their careers. Therefore, this learning system cannot easily adapt to individual needs and extends over a longer period of time.
Differences between microlearning and macrolearning at a glance
MICROLEARNING | MACROLEARNING |
I need help now | I want to learn something new |
<10 minutes | several hours or days |
Based on a concept or a skill, in the shortest possible units | Based on long-term online courses, MOOCs, other educational programs |
Videos, texts, articles, quizzes | Includes practical examples and exercises |
Self-directed 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 time-structured by a trainer or coach |
Are the learning contents helpful, precise, and relevant to the learning goal? | Are the learning contents mandatory and instructive for the learning goal? |
The two learning methods cannot always be strictly separated. Therefore, I want to explain the relationship between microlearning and macrolearning using two examples. It becomes clear to what extent microlearning is also a part of macrolearning and vice versa:
Microlearning vs. macrolearning explained using examples
Level | Learning Elements | Performance Elements | Example 1: Learn a language | Example 2: Solve a typical household problem |
Micro Macro | Learning content, trainer input | Competencies | Learning individual vocabulary | Handling tools, basic physical knowledge |
Learning topics | Individual tasks | Practicing complete sentences, understanding grammar | Basics of how the sewage system works | |
Online courses | Results from one’s own work | Practicing a fictitious situation, conducting conversations | Repairing: Changing faucets, cleaning pipes |
This example is from eLearning Industry and is based on Theo Hug.
Microlearning and macrolearning do not exclude each other! The two learning methods can be combined and, in a way, merge into each other. In summary, it can be noted that microlearning focuses much more on the learners while macrolearning describes a more comprehensive learning experience. Thus, it is clear that both methods transition into each other.
