Today, over 78% of individuals worldwide own a smartphone, and the typical person checks their phone 221 times daily. Since consumers today depend on their smartphones for more tasks, mobile learning or mLearning is more critical than ever. 

Executives in learning and development (L&D) teams should consider whether their organization's current training plan is prepared for a mobile-first era and how to best utilize this technology that learners carry around everywhere. Effectively using mLearning strategies for providing training can help organizations improve learner experience and gain a better return on training investment. 

This article will review some key m Learning strategies that can help you achieve remarkable results in employee training. So let's get started by understanding mLearning in detail. 

What Is Mobile Learning/mLearning?

"mLearning," or "Mobile Learning," refers to learning conducted or delivered through a portable mobile device with an active internet connection. Although mLearning is typically associated with smartphones, it can also be made available on tablets and laptops. 

According to a Skillsoft survey, mLearning can boost learner engagement in a learning program by 72%. Another study found that mobile learners finished their courses almost two times as quickly as non-mobile learners. As a result, they were more effective in their everyday work activities. It is exciting news for businesses that want to maintain remote or hybrid working practices. 

Mobile learning has the potential to offer the following content formats and more.

• Online training sessions
• Educational videos
• Lecture recordings and podcasts
• Blog articles
• Role-play/gamified training programs

Let's now look at some key mLearning strategies organizations can use to achieve their training goals.

1. Microlearning

According to a study conducted by Microsoft, the typical user's attention span has decreased to just 8 seconds. Microlearning has come up as a solution to this problem.

Microlearning is intended to facilitate quicker and better information retention. This strategy divides lengthy course content into manageable chunks of information, typically lasting between two and ten minutes (if it's a video). If the course is text-based, there might only be 200-300 words of text before a brief quiz. This tends to make the course simple to understand for a learner.

Microlearning makes up for an excellent mLearning strategy. It enables mobile learners to complete courses whenever appropriate, for instance, during break times, weekends, or the drive to work in the mornings.

2. Real-Life Scenario-Based Learning 

Individuals learn through simulations of real-life circumstances when they engage in scenario-based learning. This eLearning strategy functions best when it is vital to assess learners' understanding of the subject matter and, much more importantly, their ability to put their knowledge to use in practical settings.

Scenario-based learning offers the following primary advantages:

• It is appropriate for both formal and informal learning.
• It enables learners to look into other aspects of the topic.
• It encourages users to fix their errors by providing critical feedback.

3. Gamification

Mobile learners learn most effectively when they are having fun and achieving aspirational objectives- especially when learning is perceived as joyful. Given how engaging and addictive video game features are for individuals of all ages, it makes perfect sense to see learners get hooked when game-based components are included in their online training course materials.

Gamification steps in to help make training more engaging and game-like. Gamifying training courses can help learners retain new information, boost engagement, and promote competitiveness. It may involve adding a point-based rewards program, leaderboards, score charts, scheduling, and even real prizes.

This approach to learning works best for: 

• Increasing learner enjoyment and engagement during training lessons.
• Fostering soft skills development, including teamwork, social awareness, and social problem-solving.
• Encouraging learners to find their own personal desire for learning.

4. Using Audio And Video In Training

Mobile learning uses both images and audio in order to hold learners' attention and improve information retention. Due to this, the majority of courses are video-based. This approach to learning works best for:

• Keeping learners attentive: Because video involves both the auditory and visual senses, it increases long-term memory.
• Onboarding new hires: Videos are excellent for introducing new employees to your company's mission, vision, values, and culture.
• Workplace education: Videos are a fantastic tool to train new employees about typical office scenarios and what to do in a crisis.

Another excellent method for learners to take training is through audio-based learning, which allows them to continue learning while on the move or engaged in other activities (like cleaning the dishes!).

5. Personalized Learning

Personalization's primary components are game-based interactive learning and instant feedback.

Microlearning and gamification, as mentioned above, are used to create gamified interactive learning. Learners who participate in interactive learning receive quick bits of knowledge seasoned with game-based exercises.

Regular feedback directs learners to areas where they should focus their attention more. Instant and relevant feedback is typically achieved through grading, personalized suggestions, and advice. However, ensure that well-designed feedback motivates users to keep learning even if they experience inevitable setbacks and failures.

Regarding the product design process, it is entirely up to the UX copy to develop motivating and encouraging feedback statements that encourage learners to keep learning.

6. Text-Based Learning

Even though videos are fantastic, they might not always be the best way to learn. Sometimes it can be difficult for your learners to watch videos. Therefore, text-based learning may be highly effective in such circumstances. 

Learning from PDFs or eBooks can be just as effective as watching videos, if not more so. Additionally, learners can mark crucial paragraphs, sections, and illustrations for revision if their smartphones or electronic devices have a highlight option.

Conclusion

As you have seen above, organizations can adopt various strategies for mobile learning. Each of these strategies helps people acquire skills as quickly and readily as possible - without forgetting what they have learned. Since there are so many different mLearning strategies, businesses can select the one that best serves their LMS while considering particular company goals.