Abstract
A microlecture is a short recorded audio or video presentation on a single, tightly defined topic. Microlectures are typically produced by an instructor, who might begin by drafting a rough script that includes an introduction, a list of key points to cover, and a conclusion. Public microlecture sites such as Khan Academy and TED-Ed have made the format a familiar staple of informal learning. These short lectures encourage a self-directed model of learning, allowing students to select lessons to watch and to move through them at their own pace. Microlectures are easy to integrate into the curriculum because they can be used in a variety of ways and are short enough to fit almost anywhere, and they offer an appealing option for mobile learning.
The 7 Things You Should Know About... series from the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative (ELI) provides concise information on emerging learning technologies. Each brief focuses on a single technology and describes what it is, where it is going, and why it matters to teaching and learning. Use these briefs for a no-jargon, quick overview of a topic and share them with time-pressed colleagues.
In addition to the 7 Things briefs, you may find other ELI resources useful in addressing teaching, learning, and technology issues at your institution. To learn more, please visit the ELI Resources page.