A New Approach for a New Era
Aurora Public Schools (APS) has always been committed to innovation and equity in education. But like many districts across the nation, APS faced challenges when it came to traditional professional development (PD). Long workshops, rigid schedules, and a one-size-fits-all approach often failed to meet teachers where they were—both physically and professionally.
That’s when APS decided to reimagine professional development using a microlearning model. In partnership with Learnie, a mobile-first community microlearning platform, APS launched a modern, scalable solution aimed at empowering educators through bite-sized, collaborative, and self-paced learning.
Learn more here!What is Microlearning and Why Does It Matter?
Microlearning is a learning strategy that delivers content in small, focused segments—often just a few minutes long. It is designed to match how the brain naturally processes and retains information. According to cognitive load theory, learning is most effective when information is presented in manageable chunks. Microlearning aligns with this by providing content that is:
- Short and focused
- Immediately applicable
- Delivered on demand
- Often multimedia-rich and interactive
The Embracing Microlearning paper underscores the value of this format, highlighting that microlearning increases retention rates by up to 80% compared to traditional methods. The paper also notes that microlearning boosts learner engagement due to its flexibility, personalization, and efficiency, especially when combined with mobile technology.
For teachers balancing full classrooms, evolving standards, and their own professional growth, this format is more than convenient—it’s transformative.
“Less is more.” – Robert Browning
Phase 1: Building the Foundation – Tech Tools and Teacher Confidence
What They Did
APS began its microlearning initiative by focusing on everyday classroom technology. Led by Dusty Burton and the district’s EdTech team, the first wave of content helped teachers learn essential digital tools like learning management systems, video platforms, and device integration techniques.
Learnie enabled the creation of short, interactive micro-lessons (called “Learnies”) that teachers could complete on their own time—from home, between classes, or even on the go.
Why It Mattered
This approach matched the realities of a teacher’s workday. With Learnie, professional development wasn’t a scheduled event—it was a resource available anytime, anywhere. The PDF notes that this kind of “just-in-time” learning supports stronger outcomes by making knowledge accessible at the point of need, rather than front-loading it in disconnected seminars.
What Happened
Engagement soared. Teachers not only completed the tech-based Learnies but also began applying their new skills in real time. This laid the groundwork for deeper, more meaningful application and created a sense of ownership in the learning process.
Phase 2: Cultivating Community Expertise – Teachers Teaching Teachers
What They’re Doing Now
After the success of the foundational content, APS opened up the platform to educators themselves. Now, experienced teachers are creating their own Learnies to share classroom-tested strategies, pedagogical approaches, and student engagement tips.
This bottom-up model turns teachers into creators, not just consumers of professional development. According to the Embracing Microlearning paper, empowering learners to collaborate and co-create content is one of the most effective ways to deepen learning and sustain motivation.
Why It Works
APS is tapping into an incredible internal resource: its own educators. The district is building a living library of knowledge that is directly relevant to its community. Newer teachers benefit from mentorship-style content, while veteran educators gain recognition and leadership opportunities.
This also supports social learning theory, which emphasizes the importance of learning through observation, imitation, and interaction. When teachers share their own methods and stories, the content feels authentic, practical, and grounded in reality.
How APS staff responded
The APS staff overwhelmingly stated that they preferred asynchronous learning in smaller chunks. Further, Instead of front loading all of the professional development at the beginning of the year, they preferred to have access to the important pieces any time they needed it.
Real Results Through February 11, 2025
The numbers tell a powerful story of growth and engagement:
- 770 Unique Users
+22% from Dec–Jan | +153% since Sept 4 - 2607 Learnies Completed
+19% from Dec–Jan | +121% since Sept 4 - 197 Learnies Created
+26% from Dec–Jan | +114% since Sept 4 - 21,328 Minutes of Learning Logged
+19% from Dec–Jan | +163% since Sept 4
This rapid adoption reflects not just interest, but sustained use—a key indicator of success in any PD initiative.
Why APS Chose Learnie
APS selected Learnie because it combines ease of content creation, accessibility, and collaboration tools that make it ideal for a district-wide rollout. Teachers and instructional leaders alike benefit from:
- Mobile-first access – learning anywhere, anytime
- Video-based content – visually rich and engaging
- Creator tools – anyone can contribute, empowering community learning
- Interactive features – including polls, quizzes, comments, and badges
- Private branded spaces – ensuring district content stays secure and structured
The Embracing Microlearning report emphasizes that tools like Learnie provide a perfect blend of self-paced learning and peer-to-peer engagement, both of which are essential for long-term success in education.
What’s Next?
APS plans to scale this initiative across departments and continue using learning analytics to refine content and delivery. Feedback loops will help identify which Learnies are most effective and where support is still needed.
This journey isn’t just about delivering PD—it’s about shifting culture. APS is proving that with the right tools and approach, professional development can be:
- Teacher-driven
- Flexible
- Sustainable
- Rooted in community wisdom
Ultimately, this transformation benefits not just the educators—but the students they serve.
Want to see Learnie in action? Schedule a demo here!