What is Micro learning?

From Wikipedia: Microlearning deals with relatively small learning units and short-term learning activities. Generally, the term 'microlearning' refers to micro-perspectives in the context of learning, education and training. More frequently, the term is used in the domain of E-learning and related fields in the sense of a new paradigmatic perspective on learning processes in mediated environments on micro levels.

It seems everyone is implementing and "designing" microlearning because all learning is micro in nature if you take the time to break it down to that level. Even a Doctorate - this still is acquiring of one piece of information at a time.

As for designing microlearning, some of the examples given in the Wiki article include simple communications like email and text messsaging. Obviously when one is trying to communicate an idea, they generally take enough time to compose the message in a way that will be easily understood. Does that count as microlearning design? I think not.

Where I see a major stumbling block in the microlearning concept is if indeed we are going to treat it as a true learning method, we're still going to need to measure, analyze, and record effectiveness. Do we really have the time to do a full analysis of every email, phone call, memo, text, or wall poster we put up? Of course not, but when we anaylse the objectives of the entire overall concept, then measure those against the skill, knowledge or attitude we are trying to impart, we will meet with best practice and we will actually achieve something.

The whole thing seems to me to be people trying once again to "invent" an existing natural process by giving it a label.

I'm going to call micro learning another "fad" label.