Talent.com
Podcast 94 : Can Microlearning Drive Professional Development- Job at Talentedlea

Podcast 94 : Can Microlearning Drive Professional Development- Job at Talentedlea

MediabistroBloomsburg, Columbia County, United States
job_description.job_card.30_days_ago
serp_jobs.job_preview.job_type
  • serp_jobs.job_card.temporary
job_description.job_card.job_description

EPISODE 94 : Microlearning in Professional Development

Dusty Burton, Ed Tech Coordinator, Aurora Public Schools

After decades of debate about its pros and cons, microlearning is now widely accepted as a viable instructional method. Increasingly, I see it applied across all sorts of extended enterprise use cases — channel partner and customer education , commercial and association certification training , and beyond.

Today, I’m turning to the academic world for ideas and insights the rest of us can use. That’s why I’ve invited Dusty Burton to share his story. Dusty is Ed Tech Coordinator at Colorado’s Aurora Public Schools , where teachers and staff are rapidly embracing microlearning for onboarding and ongoing professional development.

With 22 years of teaching and administrative experience, Dusty understands how beneficial the right kind of just-in-time learning can be. So, no matter what your objectives are, I know you’ll find helpful information as we dig deeper on this episode of the Talented Learning Show …

MICROLEARNING IN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT — KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Too often, employee onboarding is an overwhelming experience. Microlearning journeys avoid this by helping new hires focus on essential aspects of their jobs, while providing on-demand access to less critical details, resources and support.
  • With microlearning-based professional development, it’s easy to offer motivational “carrots” that get people involved and help them build a habit of continuous learning. For teachers and other professionals, certification and recertification credits are particularly attractive incentives.
  • If you review each microlearning module to ensure it meets your standards, expanding your content catalog becomes complex and time-consuming. But scaling your professional development program is much easier if you qualify each content creator, instead.

MICROLEARNING IN PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT – Q&A HIGHLIGHTS

Welcome, Dusty. To start, could you share some background information about your school district?

Sure. Aurora Public Schools is a very unique but heavily diverse public school system. In fact, it’s one of the most diverse, with over 100 different languages spoken by families throughout the district.

Last year, our community in Aurora, Colorado faced a fairly significant immigration influx, which was a bit of a challenge for our team. But we figured out ways to work through it and keep pushing forward.

Find out how other companies are achieving more with learning systems that create business value. Get inspiration from dozens of success stories in our free LMS Case Study Directory …

When you became Ed Tech Coordinator in 2019, what issues did the district face?

Communication was a big challenge. Also, we needed to help people with onboarding , so they understand what to do in their jobs and other work-related information.

The communication problems aren’t yet fully solved, but we have found ways to get just-in-time learning to our staff.

We chose microlearning as a method for creating and delivering onboarding. Now, we’re seeing fairly heavy use of our platform, Learnie . And we’re excited because we’re prepared to grow exponentially.

Excellent. Are you focused on onboarding because there is a lot of turnover?

Great question. When we conduct surveys, one of the most common pieces of feedback we receive focuses on how to retain talent.

Many districts face the same problem with retaining talented teachers and staff members. For us, part of the problem is that we never had a real onboarding system.

Typically, districts tell new teachers, “Hey, at the beginning of August, come in for a day.” We open up a fire hose, point it at them and expect them to drink-in all the information they’ll need for an entire year. Then, we turn off the firehose.

That’s why we’re trying to flip the script with a microlearning platform. Instead of bombarding people all at once with a fire hose, we give people a way to tap into learning anytime.

Now, we offer onboarding materials that empower people to be effective in their jobs from Day One. They can also become more effective on a continuous basis because they have access to training and reinforcement whenever they need it.

It’s more like our experience as kids drinking from a garden hose, where we take a sip at our own pace and in our own time. So, whenever you need a bit of knowledge, you can take a 5-second burst to get what you need.

To be sure we’re on the same page, how does your organization define microlearning?

We define it as a burst of learning that’s 30 seconds to 7 minutes in length.

But here’s some historical context. When this began, our CAO asked, “Can we build an app where we can find the information we need, when we need it, how we need it? We want to be able to access it from the couch, on a phone, or on the go, so it’s easy and convenient for people to use.”

Of course, being in ed tech, that’s exactly what I had been wanting for years. I call it Micro PD . In fact, when I was discussing this with our interim CAO, I said, “Micro PDs are short PDs.”

And he asked, “Shouldn’t all PDs be short PDs?”

He’s not wrong. We need to get away from 3-hour-long trainings. Teachers need professional development with more meaning and impact.

So, the idea of a micro PD is twofold :

1) It is short : 30 seconds to 7 minutes.

2) But the way our platform works, each PD is a chunk of only 30 seconds or less. This gives people a brain break.

In contrast, if you watch a 5-minute YouTube video on a topic you pick, you’d watch it continuously and be done with it. But here, there is a break every 30 seconds or less. This lets your brain consider engagement elements . That might be a link, or a pause, or a poll, or a question. But the point is to continue engaging the learner.

Also, during those breaks, we build-in lots of knowledge checks. Those are super informative and helpful for us, so we can see where people stand in terms of their learning status and progress.

And what does the content look like? Is it slide-based, video-based, audio-based, all the above?

Yes, it could be any of those. People from every department contribute content to this system. The only thing we want to avoid is hour-long trainings. We have a different, more traditional program for that.

Instead, we want short, just-in-time training. The point is that we now have a one-stop where people have access anytime to learning in a relaxed format.

And here is the carrot : Learnie built a transcript for us, so we can give salary advancement credit to anybody who watches these videos. That’s why most people are really excited about this.

Nice. How does this salary advancement credit work?

Whenever you earn a specific number of credits, you get bumped up to a different salary level. I think it’s every 15 or 30 credits.

So, lots of people want to use this system to accumulate professional development credits that will bump up their salary. From that standpoint, it is super successful.

Nothing like a good carrot to motivate people. And that’s not your only carrot, right?

Absolutely. Every so often, to renew their certification with Colorado Department of Education, teachers need to prove they’re essentially lifelong learners. And because our professional learning platform accepts Learnie transcripts, it can apply those credits toward CDE renewal.

So, we give people the option to get recertified in the comfort of their home, on their phone, on the go — wherever they want to be.

See how other continuing education providers are succeeding. For ideas and inspiration, browse our collection of stories in our LMS Case Study Directory…

That’s exciting. I see a strong parallel between your system and other professional development providers. For instance, associations and commercial training companies could also benefit from this kind of microlearning strategy.

Yes.

But with so much diverse content from so many sources, how do you teach creators to stay within your microlearning standards?

I wrestled with that for a long time. My best advice is not to think about vetting content. Instead, focus on vetting the content creator.

We took that route because, with thousands of Micro PDs, it’s much easier to vet each contributor than every single piece of content. Nobody has time to review it all. So, we made a micro-credential for content creators with 10 hours of professional learning credit or CDE renewal time.

That’s where we teach creators how to be effective. It’s a step-by-step on how to design and build a Micro PD in the platform. It includes things like microlearning best practices, how to use images and how to make the learning experience engaging so users want to comment and interact as a community .

Good idea. Along the way, you’ve mentioned a couple of metrics. What are the most important ways you measure professional development success with this approach?…

Want more specifics about how the Learnie app works hand-in-hand with an LMS — or as a standalone solution — to propel community-oriented microlearning? Check the Learnie listing in our learning systems directory. Or watch my Hot Take Review on our YouTube channel…

Need a Platform for Professional Development? Let’s Talk

As an independent learning tech expert, I’m prepared to help you choose the best solution for your organization’s professional development needs. For a free 30-minute consult with me, John Leh , Lead Analyst at Talented Learning, schedule a call below…

John Leh is Founder, CEO and Lead Analyst at Talented Learning . He is a fiercely independent consultant, blogger, podcaster, speaker and educator who helps organizations select and implement learning technology strategies, primarily for extended enterprise applications. His advice is based upon 25+ years of learning industry experience, serving as a trusted LMS selection and sales adviser to hundreds of organizations with a total technology spend of $100+ million and growing. John is active on social media and is happy to connect with you on X / Twitter or on LinkedIn .

#J-18808-Ljbffr

serp_jobs.job_alerts.create_a_job

Podcast 94 Can Drive • Bloomsburg, Columbia County, United States

Job_description.internal_linking.related_jobs
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Special Instructor - Early Intervention

Special Instructor - Early Intervention

Pediatric Therapeutic Services, Inc.Pottsville, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Pediatric Therapeutic Services (PTS) is seeking a Special Instructor to provide early intervention services inSchuylkill County, PA . This is a per diem opportunity that can grow to as full of ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Family Medicine Residency Core Faculty

Family Medicine Residency Core Faculty

HealthEcareers - ClientWilkes-Barre, PA, USA
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time +1
Geisinger Primary Care South Wilkes-Barre is seeking an experienced board-certified Family Medicine, for a family medicine physician and Family Medicine Residency Core Faculty position, in Wilkes-B...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
PEDIATRIC ADOLESCENT MEDICINE / ACADEMIC - Savannah, GA

PEDIATRIC ADOLESCENT MEDICINE / ACADEMIC - Savannah, GA

Lexicon PlacementsElysburg, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Specialty : Academic Pediatric Adolescent MedicineJob Summary : Our Children's Hospital at University Medical Center is seeking applications for a full-time Adolescent Medicine Faculty.Faculty will le...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Director of Alumni Relations

Director of Alumni Relations

Misericordia UniversityDallas, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
The Director of Alumni Relations is responsible for developing and implementing strategies to engage and connect Misericordia University's alumni community with the university.This role will ov...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Adjuncts | Chemistry / Biochemistry Department

Adjuncts | Chemistry / Biochemistry Department

Misericordia UniversityDallas, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Department of Misericordia University is conducting a search for Adjunct Faculty to cover lectures and / or labs in Introductory Chemistry courses, as well as upper-level courses, especially Analytic...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
(USA) Coach / Ops Mgr Trainee

(USA) Coach / Ops Mgr Trainee

WalmartTamaqua, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time +1
XMLNAME USA Coach Ops Mgr Trainee.Leads and develops teams effectively by teaching, training, and actively listening to associates. Tour to teach, communicate, and collaborate with all levels of a...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
Daily Substitute Teachers, St. Jerome Regional School

Daily Substitute Teachers, St. Jerome Regional School

Diocese of AllentownTamaqua, PA, USA
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
serp_jobs.filters_job_card.quick_apply
Jerome Regional School, Tamaqua.Reports to the School Principal.A daily substitute teacher fills in for the classroom teacher (K-8th grade) in their temporary absence. This daily substitute teacher ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Graduate Assistant | Sports Information

Graduate Assistant | Sports Information

Misericordia UniversityDallas, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Misericordia University, a member of the NCAA Division III, located in Dallas, PA invites applications for Graduate Assistant Coaching positions in Sports Information. This position offers hands-on ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Adjunct

Adjunct

Misericordia UniversityDallas, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
The Graduate Nursing Department at Misericordia University.Graduate programs include preparation for Family Individual Across the LifeSpan Nurse Practitioners and Adult-Gerontology Nurse Practition...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
SHINE Lead Teachers

SHINE Lead Teachers

Wilkes UniversityWilkes-Barre, PA, USA
serp_jobs.job_card.part_time
serp_jobs.filters_job_card.quick_apply
Wilkes University invites applicants for part time positions in the SHINE afterschool program for 2024-2025 school year.Luzerne County SHINE is a nationally recognized program that provides hands-o...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Graduate Assistant

Graduate Assistant

Misericordia UniversityDallas, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
To provide assistance to the IT Networking Department in supporting students and system users by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS : (other duties may be assigned).Assist with Netw...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Corrections Barber Instructor - SCI Frackville

Corrections Barber Instructor - SCI Frackville

Commonwealth Of PennsylvaniaFrackville, PA, United States
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
The State Correctional Institution at Frackville, under the Department of Corrections, is on the lookout for an enthusiastic and innovative individual with exceptional leadership abilities to fill ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Corrections Electrical Trade Instructor - SCI Mahanoy

Corrections Electrical Trade Instructor - SCI Mahanoy

Commonwealth Of PennsylvaniaFrackville, PA, United States
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Share your expertise in the electrical trade while teaching a diverse population! The Department of Corrections is seeking a motivated and dependable Corrections Electrical Trade Instructor to educ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Teacher

Teacher

TradeJobsWorkforce18690 Dallas, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Position : TEACHERS Salary Range : AA Degree - $18.Depending on Qualifications & Experience BA Degree - $18.Depending on Qualifications & Experience Filing Deadline : Open until filled JOB DUTIES : ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Teacher - Earn Up to $37 / hr

Teacher - Earn Up to $37 / hr

TradeJobsWorkforce18690 Dallas, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Position : TEACHERS Salary Range : AA Degree - $18.Depending on Qualifications & Experience BA Degree - $18.Depending on Qualifications & Experience Filing Deadline : Open until filled JOB DUTIES : ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Educators

Educators

GILLINGHAM CHARTER SCHOOLPottsville, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Gillingham Charter School is a Title I public school located in Pottsville, PA, serving students from multiple districts in and beyond Schuylkill County. We offer Kindergarten through Twelfth Grade ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
English As A Second Language Instructor : Part-time

English As A Second Language Instructor : Part-time

Central Susquehanna Intermediate UnitSunbury, PA, United States
serp_jobs.job_card.part_time +1
English as a Second Language Instructor : .Northumberland and Union Counties (Milton, Lewisburg, Sunbury).Please note, this is a part time, short-term position with funding.June 30, 2026 with the pos...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_variable_days
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Substitute Teacher

Substitute Teacher

TradeJobsWorkForce18612 Dallas, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Substitute Teacher Job Duties : Contributes to student learning, growth, and advancement.Demonstrates...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
Family Medicine Residency Core Faculty

Family Medicine Residency Core Faculty

GeisingerWilkes-Barre, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time +1
Geisinger Primary Care South Wilkes-Barre is seeking an experienced board-certified Family Medicine, for a family medicine physician and Family Medicine Residency Core Faculty position, in Wilkes-B...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30
  • serp_jobs.job_card.promoted
ACT Team Program Assistant

ACT Team Program Assistant

Northeast Counseling ServicesNanticoke, PA, US
serp_jobs.job_card.full_time
Northeast Counseling Services is seeking a full-time Program Assistant for our Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team in Nanticoke, PA. The Program Assistant is responsible for all administrative ...serp_jobs.internal_linking.show_moreserp_jobs.last_updated.last_updated_30