The Microlearning Industry

Microlearning at a glance

In an era where attention spans are shrinking and information overload is the norm, microlearning has emerged as a transformative approach to education and training. Defined as the delivery of content in small, focused bursts—typically lasting less than 20 minutes and centered on a single learning objective—microlearning aims to reduce learner fatigue while boosting engagement and retention.sciencesdirect.comThis method breaks down complex topics into bite-sized nuggets that can be consumed quickly, often via mobile devices, making it ideal for busy professionals and lifelong learners. Unlike traditional e-learning, which can involve lengthy courses, microlearning leverages multimedia formats like short videos, quizzes, infographics, and interactive modules to fit seamlessly into daily routines. The appeal of microlearning lies in its alignment with modern cognitive science. It draws on principles like the spacing effect, where information is better retained when revisited in short intervals, and addresses the challenges of knowledge retention in fast-paced environments.visualsp.com

As of 2025, microlearning dominates over 60% of e-learning content, reflecting a significant surge in platform usage driven by advancements in AI, mobile technology, and the need for agile workforce development, particularly in sectors with frontline workers who require just-in-time training without disrupting operations.elearningindustry.com

The History of Microlearning

The roots of microlearning trace back further than many realize, evolving from early educational theories to a digital powerhouse in the 21st century. The term microlearning was first coined in 1963 by economist Héctor Correa in his book The Economics of Human Resources, where he discussed learning in small, incremental steps as part of human capital development. the work by Correa laid the groundwork by emphasizing efficiency in education, though the concept drew from even earlier ideas, such as Hermann Ebbinghaus 1880s Forgetting Curve Theory, which highlighted how information decays over time unless reinforced in short bursts.educause.edu

The modern iteration of microlearning gained traction in the early 2000s, coinciding with the rise of Web 2.0 and mobile technologies. In 2003, the phrase learning-in-small-steps was introduced, and by 2004-2005, researchers like Theo Hug, Gerhard Gassler, and Christian Glahn began exploring integrated microlearning for applications like language acquisition and digital media environments. Hug, a professor of educational sciences at the University of Innsbruck, is often credited with popularizing the term in academic circles, advocating for micro-perspectives in learning processes.visualsp.com

The 2010s marked a boom, driven by smartphones and apps. Platforms began incorporating gamification and push notifications to deliver content in the flow of work. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated adoption, with a notable increase in microlearning usage as remote and hybrid work demanded flexible training solutions. By the mid-2020s, AI integration has further refined microlearning, enabling personalized content and adaptive learning paths. Today, it is not just a trend but a staple in corporate training, with extensive publications on the topic underscoring its academic and practical evolution.sciencedirect.com

Key Companies and Industry Leaders in Microlearning

The microlearning industry is driven by innovative companies and visionary leaders who have pioneered platforms that deliver bite-sized, engaging training solutions. Below, we highlight leading companies alongside their key founders, CEOs, and executives, drawing from market analyses and company profiles as of 2025. These individuals have been instrumental in advancing microlearning through AI integration, mobile-first designs, and scalable corporate applications, contributing to the projected growth to USD 6.2 billion by 2035.futuremarketinsights.com

Microlearning Across Industries

Microlearning has been adopted across various industries to address specific training needs, leveraging its bite-sized format for high engagement and retention. Below, we outline key industries, use cases, and examples of companies operating in those areas, based on real-world implementations as of 2025.

Conclusion

Microlearning has evolved from a niche concept to a cornerstone of modern education, particularly for frontline workers seeking efficient, impactful training. With pioneers like Correa and Hug paving the way, and companies like EduMe, 7taps, and Sana Labs leading innovation through key figures such as Jacob Waern, Kate Udalova, and Joel Hellermark, the industry is set for exponential growth. As AI and mobile tech advance, microlearning will likely become even more personalized and ubiquitous, empowering learners worldwide to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.