10 mobile learning best practices for effective training

If you’re in the process of establishing a corporate mobile learning program at your company, you’re on the right track. Mobile learning is not just a trend; it’s a game-changer in delivering learning materials that are accessible and practical for diverse, distributed teams.  

This article provides ten actionable mobile learning best practices to ensure your program meets workforce needs and delivers impactful results. 

Why go mobile? 

If you’ve ever faced the challenge of training employees spread out over multiple remote locations, you can probably already see the benefit of mobile learning. From traveling sales managers to field representatives, remote workers of all job descriptions benefit from having access to training content on their mobile devices. 

This expands your reach as an L&D professional, connecting you with your learners via mobile phones, regardless of their location. It also puts you more in touch with the next generation of learners, millennials and Gen Z, those who have never lived without mobile technologies. 

Our top mobile learning best practices

Best practice #1: choose the right mobile training tool 

Your mobile learning program is only as effective as the software you use to create and display it. Choose mobile training tools like Easygenerator, which optimizes content to fit smaller screen sizes, no matter the device. 

If you’re using an LMS or LXP to share your mobile training course, it too needs to allow learners access from their mobile devices, whether through an app or a mobile website. 

It’s also essential that your content runs on both iOS and Android, the most common mobile operating systems. 

Best practice #2: take advantage of interactivity 

Mobile learning is so effective because it lets you use all kinds of interactive features that wouldn’t work on a conventional computer. Since mobile devices have touchscreens, your learners will experience an immersive learning experience in which they engage with the content on their screens. 

Be sure your content authoring and publishing software supports interactive learning activities like quizzes, hotspots, and media types. This variety of interactions makes your content more engaging for your learners. 

Best practice #3: use microlearning for short modules 

Mobile learning is ideal for subjects broken into very short bits of information. This method of e-learning, known as “microlearning,” is a perfect match for modern learners. They generally don’t have the time or attention span to sit through a lengthy PowerPoint presentation or online course. 

Be sure to break content into little nuggets wherever you can, whether it’s a quick FAQ or a 30-second video tutorial. For actual training courses, keep them under the 10-minute mark. This helps your learners quickly access the information they need so they can easily do their jobs effectively while on the move. 

Best practice #4: security matters 

While mobile learning is a significant benefit to your company, you must also be conscious of security risks. A lost or stolen company iPhone could mean big trouble if it contains access to sensitive training information. 

That’s why it’s wise to stick with a cloud-based learning platform. These securely store learning content and require password authentication before users can access any information. 

Best practice #5: adopt a mobile mindset 

When designing your mobile learning courses, you’ll probably do so on a computer screen. However, it’s important to keep in mind how the content will look when your learners view it on their mobile devices. 

Take advantage of the fact that they can interact with the content using a touchscreen. Choose large buttons, swipeable and draggable items, bold colors, and large text and images. This will ensure that the content is easily readable and engaging for your learners. 

Best practice #6: empower peer-to-peer knowledge sharing 

Mobile learning can be enhanced by incorporating user-generated content. Encourage subject matter experts (SMEs) or employees to contribute their insights via short videos, FAQs, or step-by-step guides. For example, a seasoned sales rep could share tips for closing deals, or a technician could create a quick troubleshooting guide. 

This democratized approach not only enriches the content but also fosters collaboration and engagement within your organization. Employees are more likely to connect with and trust content created by their peers. 

Best practice #7: prioritize contextual relevance 

Your content should be tailored to the specific tasks or challenges learners face in their roles. Employees value training that helps them solve real-world problems. Use microlearning modules like “how-to” guides or process walkthroughs that relate directly to their day-to-day activities. 

For example, field technicians might benefit from quick troubleshooting videos, while sales reps could use concise product pitch tips. By ensuring your training is contextually relevant, you make it immediately applicable and valuable. 

Best practice #8: blend synchronous and asynchronous learning 

Combine live virtual sessions with on-demand mobile learning modules to provide real-time and comprehensive training experiences. This blended approach provides opportunities for interactive discussions and collaboration while allowing learners to revisit course materials at their convenience. 

For instance, a team might join a live webinar to discuss a new product and then access on-demand resources afterward to deepen their understanding. This flexibility accommodates different learning styles and schedules. 

Best practice #9: integrate performance support 

Think beyond standalone courses. Mobile learning is ideal for performance support tools that enhance learning environments, such as checklists, quick-reference guides, or FAQs. These resources help employees access knowledge at the moment of need, improving productivity and reducing the time spent searching for information. 

For example, a customer support agent might use a mobile FAQ to resolve a client issue quickly, or a manager could reference a checklist during a performance review. 

Best practice #10: leverage gamification 

Incorporate gamified elements to make learning fun and engaging. Features like badges, leaderboards, or progress trackers encourage learners to complete courses. Gamification also increases retention by providing immediate feedback and fostering a sense of accomplishment. 

For example, learners could earn points for completing modules or participate in friendly competitions to boost engagement. This approach turns training into an enjoyable and rewarding experience. 

The future is mobile 

Considering the overwhelming popularity of mobile technologies, it’s no surprise that the world’s leading organizations are embracing mobile learning. By adopting a mobile learning strategy, you prepare your L&D training programs for the future while giving your learners what they need to succeed. It’s a recipe for e-learning success. Read our ebook about mobile learning strategy. 

So, if you’re tired of trying to corral all your field reps into a training room at once, the answer is simple: go mobile! And with the best practices in mobile learning we discussed above, you and your learners will be glad you did. 

In closing 

Mobile learning has evolved from a convenient training option to an essential strategy for modern organizations. As smartphones become ubiquitous and mobile technologies advance, learning programs must adapt to stay relevant and impactful. A well-designed mobile learning strategy meets employees where they are—on the go, in the field, or working remotely—and ensures they have access to engaging and valuable training. 

By implementing the best practices outlined in this article, you can create a mobile learning experience that’s interactive, secure, and tailored to your learners’ needs. Whether it’s through gamification, peer-to-peer knowledge sharing, or integrating performance support tools, these strategies not only enhance engagement but also improve knowledge retention and application. 

Remember, the key to successful mobile learning lies in understanding your workforce and aligning your training goals with their everyday challenges and aspirations. Embracing mobile learning is more than keeping up with trends—it’s about creating a flexible, future-proof approach to learning and development. Equip your employees with the tools they need to excel, and your organization will thrive in an increasingly mobile-first world. 

Check out this comparison of the top-4 mobile learning authoring tools!