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Microlearning has shifted professional training and development and its acceptance depends on perceived user benefits. This study examines the influence of user-perceived benefits on librarians' acceptance of the microlearning approach in selected universities in Tanzania. Using a questionnaire informed by the variables of the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) model to collect data from a sample of 64 librarians, the results indicated that the perceived ease of use was found to play a more significant role in the acceptance of microlearning than perceived usefulness. However, the lack of in-person/physical interaction with peers during the training deterred the use of microlearning by the librarians. The positive influence of perceived usefulness and ease of use on the acceptance of microlearning strengthens the relevance of adopting microlearning as a didactic technology for librarians' training. The findings imply that proper implementation of microlearning as a training avenue is key due to the plenteous benefits it affords over the challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The constant change in technology, its impact on the electronic information environment and complex library users are forcing academic librarians to majorly change their skill set. Patrons no longer request for physical information but are accessing and retrieving information electronically. This study investigated the current training needs of librarians in Tanzanian academic libraries with the aim of developing microlearning intervention for training. Using a self-administered questionnaire, data were collected from 138 librarians in six Tanzanian academic libraries. Results identified the most important competencies and skills needed by the librarians and also identified barriers to librarians training. Identifying librarians' training needs will accelerate the training required for the librarians to gain current expertise based on need. Using microlearning for training will eliminate the barriers to librarians' training. Increasing training and learning efficiency is crucial if these academic libraries are to maintain relevance and continue to meet the needs of their users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Micro-learning is a modern learning approach hailed for improved course completion by learners and retention capability. Micro-learning relies on technologies of various types to offer improved learning experiences to learners anywhere and anytime. Micro-learning platforms of various types offer course managers and educators features for managing courses, collaborating with learners as well as monitoring their progress. Unfortunately, due to the novelty of micro-learning as an area of research, there is a scarcity of literature guiding institutions and decision-makers concerning technological choices for the right deployment. This paper proposes eleven platforms for micro-learning deployment in higher learning institutions (HEIs), particularly in Tanzania. The paper is influenced by the Design Science Research approach and the Critical Theory of Technologies. A stage-based methodology for software evaluation was used in the current study. Specifically, thirty-seven platforms from key industry trends were evaluated. The proposed eleven platforms are generically relevant for the Tanzanian context as they are affordable, customizable, and functionally able to offer quality micro-learning services. The paper adds knowledge to the micro-learning deployment domain as well as offers practical guidance to those intending to deploy micro-learning services. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]