December 5, 2024
•
Kate Udalova
7taps Microlearning platform offers a powerful way to create engaging, snackable learning experiences grounded in cognitive science. This guide will walk you through creating a spaced learning path, focusing on maximizing knowledge transfer and learner confidence, while grounding our recommendations in real, peer-reviewed research.
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.
Example: In our sample path, we've got three courses:
Each builds on the last, creating a cohesive learning journey.
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.
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.
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.
💡 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 sample path, we introduce the interleaving technique in action when presenting stakeholder communication tips.
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.
Example: In our sample path, we generously share feedback and possible solutions, ensuring a clear understanding of the theoretical concepts.
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? That's what we're aiming for with your 7taps path. Each module should leave your learners hungry for the next, all while reinforcing what came before.
Example: Our sample path uses a consistent color scheme and minimalist illustrations throughout, creating a unified visual experience.
Each should build on the last, creating an "aha!" moment when it all comes together. Use callbacks to previous modules and foreshadowing of what's to come.
Example: 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.
Whether you're going for "wise mentor" or "encouraging friend," keep your tone consistent.
Example: Our sample path maintains a friendly, conversational tone throughout, using phrases like "Picture this:" and "Ready to hear their perspective?" to engage learners consistently.
It could be a mascot character, a particular type of challenge, or a reflection prompt. These familiar touchpoints create a sense of continuity.
Example: 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.
Example: The third module on recall strategies directly references the spacing effect introduced in the first module, tying the entire path together.
Now, let's talk about how to write content that packs a punch in a small package:
Explore the following articles to enhance your learning journey.
Let's take one last look at the learning path we used as an example, which beautifully demonstrates our key principles in action:
This path takes learners on a journey from understanding the basic concept of the spacing effect, through applying it to complex skills, and finally mastering recall strategies. It's a perfect example of how to build a cohesive, engaging, and effective learning experience using the principles we've discussed.
So, armed with these insights and inspired by our sample path, it's time to unleash your creativity in 7taps. Whether you're tackling complex leadership skills, compliance training, or onboarding new team members, you now have the tool to create learning experiences that are not just informative, but transformative.
And remember, every great spaced learning path starts with a single step — or in our case, a single tap!