Bite Size Learning

Micro bursts of learning have been around for a while now, what are they and why are they so effective? 

For nuggets bite size means 90 minutes which is the perfect amount of time to get across two or three key pieces of theory and ideas around practical application.  The brain concentrates for 45 minutes at a time so if you allow a break halfway through you will have two perfect segments of engagement.

Be very intentional around where you want your delegates to pay attention.  The peak will be around the first 20 to 30 minutes.  You get the delegates set up on an interactive exercise and the debrief of what happened is where the learning will occur., approximately 20 to 30 minutes in.

Repetition is vital and lots of visual reminders as to where you are at any point during the learning session.  In person this works really effectively with flip charts on the walls. If you are delivering online the use of a Miro Board or lots of images in your PowerPoint deck will work effectively.  Summarise all the time, what you have just covered and what you are moving onto. 

The difference between traditional learning and bite size is the momentum and the follow up.  if you attend a one day workshop you are overloaded with theory and the trainer leaves, possibly not to return for a long period of time.  With Bite size learning the trainer can be in the business on a monthly basis picking up from where the learning left off and answering any follow up questions.  The practical application can be discussed and this is where as a business you get a really good return on investment.  How has the learning made a difference to you and your team?

By using accelerated learning methodology appealing to all five senses the brain is working to its optimum.  You can set this up very easily by bringing lots of colour to the room, with visuals or props such as post its that are different colours.  To ensure there is lots of different auditory experience, have music playing, use videos, have lots of voices and interaction in the room.  The sense of smell can be done through scented markers a bit of fun and always a talking point.  Your venue may well help with the taste experience, however a few treats in a trainers toolkit is never a bad idea.  The kinaesthetic of how people feel in that room or online is all about how you show up!! Being warm and welcoming is key to an effective piece of learning and vital when you are on a bite size session.

Energy is important and is easier to sustain on a short learning burst as you are not with a group for a whole day.  The Trainer demonstrates energy and enthusiasm through the tenure of their voice not necessarily just through their physicality. 

Next time you think about booking some training give bite size learning a try, good time efficiency, greater retention of learning and overall better return on investment.