The rise of micro-learning

Thanks to modern technology, micro-learning through YouTube and other social media videos is now widespread. Micro-learning is something that deals with short-term learning activities that help gain micro-perspectives on specific topics through short passages, texts, images, audios and videos. Visualisation of any idea can be more understandable than reading. Videos in that regard are even better than images because the amalgamation of scenes and background music makes them more attractive to the learners. These are fascinating enough to hook learners to a topic which can instigate them to search more about the topics to know more. Learners get the freedom to enjoy casual learning whenever they choose to. CGP Grey, ContraPoints And Crash Course for example are YouTube channels through which learners can explore topics ranging from politics to sexuality to history. There are many other channels on Facebook and other social media platforms through which learners can discover their own niche.

Though this culture of learning is more effective, swift and affordable, it’s not the most holistic solution for learning as one can get only the most rudimentary knowledge from this process. Moreover, it is not necessarily the best fit for complex concepts. Micro-learning platforms should be a starting point for more extensive research.

Masafi Haider, an Economics student, studying at the University of Dhaka, who regularly watches videos to learn, said, “A video or a series of videos works like a primary bridge to the way of learning something new. We may search for other sources to know more, but these videos give us a headstart on it.” Shafa Tasneem, another student from the same university said, “After seeing videos, I feel more or less satisfied. It’s enough for my basic knowledge.” However, many people complain that no one can gain a substantial depth of knowledge regarding something like politics, history or art through videos or micro-learning avenues because it focuses on specific learning outcomes. Video contents make topics or subjects attractive, but don’t broaden the knowledge or provide qualitative and advanced information. To have deep thoughts and original opinions, people need to rely on well-written articles and research papers, which are quite time-consuming and labour-intensive. At the end of the day, micro-learning culture does a good job at bolstering interest by providing access to prospective learners through exposing them to the basics of a wide array of topics.