Microlearning vs. Gamification: Choosing the Right Approach for Your Training

Alright, let’s get real about employee training…

We’re diving into the smackdown between microlearning and gamification. Here at 1Huddle, we’ve got the ringside seats, and we’re not afraid to call it as we see it. So, let’s break down why microlearning might be dropping the ball and how gamification could be the heavyweight champ of learning methodologies.

Microlearning: Not Exactly Hitting the Mark

Microlearning? Sounds neat with its snackable content, but let’s talk about why it might not be the golden ticket.

1. Just Scratching the Surface: Microlearning is like grabbing a quick coffee – it’s fast, but it won’t keep you going all day. It’s great for a quick fix but doesn’t cut it for the heavy stuff. We’re talking surface-level learning that barely scratches the itch for deeper knowledge.
2. Knowledge in Pieces: Imagine trying to solve a puzzle, but you only get a few pieces at a time. That’s microlearning. It’s a jigsaw with missing parts, leaving learners with a patchy understanding of the bigger picture.
3. Yawn-Worthy: Let’s face it, microlearning can be a snooze-fest. No bells and whistles – just straight-up facts that might not stick. If your learners are nodding off, you’re losing the game.
4. Lone Wolf Style: Teamwork makes the dream work, but microlearning is like training in a silo. Where’s the camaraderie, the group high-fives? Solo learning’s fine, but we’re missing out on the magic of group dynamics.

Gamification: The Real MVP

Now, let’s switch gears to gamification – the cool kid on the block.

1. Hooked on Learning: Gamification turns learning into an adventure. It’s the difference between reading a textbook and playing a video game. Which would you pick? Exactly.
2. Real-World Ready: Gamification isn’t just fun and games. It’s like a flight simulator for skills – you’re in the pilot’s seat, getting ready for the real deal.
3. Team Players Unite: Unlike the lonely road of microlearning, gamification’s all about bringing people together. Think leaderboards, team challenges – it’s the social club of learning.

Making the Call

So, how do you choose your champion? Here’s the playbook:

1. What’s Your Endgame?: If you’re aiming for deep dives and real-world application, gamification is your go-to. Microlearning’s fine for a quick touch-up, but for the heavy lifting? Not so much.
2. Keep ‘Em Hooked: Want your team to actually enjoy learning? Gamification’s got the secret sauce – engagement with a capital E.
3. Complexity is Key: Got some tough nuts to crack in terms of content? Gamification’s the power tool you need, leaving microlearning in the dust.

Microlearning might be quick and easy, but it’s like snacking when you need a full meal. Gamification, on the other hand, is the full-course dinner – satisfying, engaging, and way more fun.

At 1Huddle, we’re all about making learning an experience, not a chore. So, let’s get your team pumped with games and take your training from meh to magnificent!

About 1Huddle

1Huddle is a coaching and development platform that uses quick-burst mobile games to more quickly and effectively educate, elevate, and energize your workforce — from frontline to full-time.

With a mobile-first approach to preparing the modern worker, a mobile library of 3,000+ quick-burst employee skill games, an on-demand game marketplace that covers 16 unique workforce skill areas, and the option for personalized content, 1Huddle is changing the way organizations think about their training – from a one-time boring onboarding experience to a continuous motivational tool. 

Key clients include Loews Hotels, Novartis, Madison Square Garden, PIMCO, TAO Group, and the United States Air Force. To learn more about 1Huddle and its platform, please visit 1huddle.co.