Microlearning Techniques for New User Mastery

Making It Stick: Proven Microlearning
Techniques for New User Mastery | Maxlearn
The success of any training initiative, particularly for new hires, is measured by one
crucial outcome: knowledge retention. Traditional onboarding often overwhelms new
users, leading to the infamous "forgetting curve." Microlearning is the most effective
modern antidote, but for the information to truly "stick," organizations must employ
scientifically proven techniques powered by strategic technology.
For industries like Health care, Finance, and Mining, where new user errors carry
high costs, these techniques are non-negotiable for achieving rapid, reliable
competence.

1. Spaced Repetition: The Science of Retention
The most critical technique for making knowledge stick is spaced repetition. Instead
of cramming, the system delivers short, focused refreshers (Microlearning Courses)
at expanding intervals (e.g., 1 day, 3 days, 7 days after the initial training).
The Technology: This is managed by the AI-Powered Learning Platform, which acts
as the intelligent scheduler within the Microlearning LMS. It tracks the exact
moment a new user is likely to forget a concept and intervenes with a quick reminder
quiz or flashcard.
Industry Example: A new Banking teller who just learned a complex cash handling
procedure is automatically sent a 90-second retrieval quiz via the Microlearning
Application three days later. This deliberate, automated practice moves knowledge
from short-term to long-term memory.
2. Retrieval Practice: The Active Engagement Loop
Passive viewing of content yields minimal retention. Knowledge sticks when the user
is forced to actively recall it. This is known as retrieval practice.
The Technique: All Microlearning Tools and Microlearning Software should
prioritize interactive elements over passive video. After a new hire in Retail watches
a video on store security procedures, the system should immediately present a short,
scenario-based quiz asking the user to apply the knowledge.
Content Creation: The Microlearning Authoring Tools used by L&D must be designed
to easily build these interactive quizzes. The efficiency of the AI-powered Authoring
Tool helps L&D teams rapidly transform compliance documents (e.g., in Insurance)
into engaging retrieval exercises, ensuring the training is both fast to produce and
highly sticky.
3. Contextual Reinforcement: Learning in the Flow of Work
New users are often overwhelmed by their new environment. For knowledge to stick,
it must be instantly relevant. Microlearning platforms excel at delivering contextual
reinforcement.
The Platform: A robust Microlearning Platform ensures that job-critical information is
available via the Microlearning Application at the point of action. For a new hire in
Oil and Gas, a quick troubleshooting guide is instantly accessible on their tablet
while performing equipment checks. This immediate application reinforces the
training and reduces the chance of costly errors.

Industry Example: A new technician in Pharma accessing a complex piece of
laboratory equipment can pull up a 2-minute "how-to" video on the device, ensuring
the training sticks because they are using the knowledge immediately to complete a
real task.
4. Gamification and Social Learning
Engagement boosts retention. For new users, gamification—using points, badges,
and leaderboards—provides a sense of achievement and encourages competition,
making the learning process sticky and fun. Furthermore, social features on the
Microlearning Platform allow new users to ask quick questions of experienced
colleagues, building confidence and accelerating cultural integration.
By strategically combining the science of spaced repetition and retrieval practice with
intelligent technology—especially the adaptive scheduling of the AI-Powered
Learning Platform—organizations can ensure that new user training is not a
temporary event, but a foundation for lasting, error-free competence across all
sectors.