Keyword: «modular instruction»

Microlearning is a modern trend that is rapidly gaining popularity not only in the field of corporate training, but also in the educational system. However, the lack of a systematic discussion and different approaches to defining this concept make it difficult to develop effective methodological solutions. The purpose of this article is to determine and shape the key principles of the implementation of microlearning for teaching foreign languages under the framework of the competency-based approach as the one guiding educational organizations. To solve this problem, theoretical and empirical research methods are used: analysis of relevant publications and world trends in the context of the digital transformation of education; comparative analysis of the basic elements of the concepts under consideration to determine their compatibility. Reviewing publications, the article compares both the developed concept of the competency-based approach that dominates modern education and the concept of microlearning, which has recently increased the pace of its development. As a result of the study, a matrix of compliance of the basic characteristics of microlearning with the principles of the competency-based approach was compiled and the principles of microlearning were formulated: the principle of self-sufficiency of micromodules; the principle of focusing; the principle of subjective time; the principle of interactivity; the principle of digitalization and mobility. A significant degree of compliance of the microlearning concept with the competency-based approach allows us to draw a conclusion about the applicability of microlearning in educational organizations at different levels (in particular for learning foreign languages). However, there are also contradictions that arise at the stage of practical implementation of the microlearning concept elements into the learning process at a university. To the greatest extent they refer to the principles of self-sufficiency of micromodules, subjectivity of time, and interactivity, which is due to the factors enveloping the process of learning in educational organizations. Prospects for further research are the search for methodological solutions and didactic resources that correspond to the previously mentioned principles, and their implementation in teaching practice.