Microlearning via Smartphones in VET for Professional Drivers:

The focus of this chapter is on the potential of a microlearning approach for professional drivers in the international transport sector. Microlearning refers to technology-based learning that uses microcontent - short learning units including videos, text and pictures - on mostly portable devices such as smartphones and tablets. As part of the LaSiDig (Ladungssicherung im intermodalen grenzuberschreitenden Transport von Gutern: cargo securing for intermodal international transport of goods) project, the authors develop microcontent and explore its use via smartphones for professional drivers. The chapter discusses the definition of microlearning and microcontent and the pro and cons of microlearning, describes the LaSiDig project, and analyses appropriate design principles for self-paced learning with multimedia microcontent and considerations for microlearning based on the Decision Oriented Instructional Design (DO ID) model. It concludes that while microcontent serves several needs of microlearning in a vocational context, one of its strongest advantages might be its high flexibility concerning individual requirements and time constraints.