31 Mobile Learning

Ms. Sunita Jain

epgp books

 

Unit Structure

 

30.1  Introduction

 

30.2  Meaning of Mobile Learning

 

30.3  Difference between E- Learning and Mobile Learning

 

30.4  Applications of Mobile Learning

 

30.5  Essentials for Mobile Learning

 

30.6  Advantages of Mobile Learning

 

30.7  Challenges of Mobile Learning

 

30.8  Let us sum up

 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

 

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to understand:

 

1)  To understand the meaning of Mobile Learning

 

2)  To comprehend the difference between E- Learning and Mobile Learning

 

3)  To understand the Applications of Mobile Learning

 

4)  To find out the Essentials for Mobile Learning

 

5)  To be aware of Advantages of Mobile Learning

 

6)  To understand the Challenges of Mobile Learning

 

 

30.1 INTRODUCTION

 

With the recent developments in science and technology the standard of quality education has also raised multiple times. There is a demand to increase access to educational opportunities and resources, provide direct instruction in formal, non-formal and informal educational settings, enhance teachers’ competency and professional development, and enrich educational quality for all students. To cater to all these needs e learning has widespread its wings. Its multifaceted role in all sectors in the society has made it omnipresent. The current generation has taken one more leap by harnessing mobile devices for mobile learning. There is an extension of e-learning into wireless/handheld (W/H) computing devices with the help of a mobile learning (m-learning) framework. Rather than acquiring another technology to receive learning materials, the world want to access learning materials on their existing mobile devices, through the use of mobile technology. Wireless data communications in form of Short Message Service (SMS) and Wireless Access Protocols (WAP) browsers have gained global popularity.

 

MEANING OF MOBILE LEARNING

 

Mobile learning or m-learning is the design and delivery of eLearning course through mobile devices, such as tablet computers, MP3 players and Smartphone. Thus we can say m-learning is the ability to obtain or provide educational content on personal pocket devices such as PDAs, Smartphone and mobile phones. Educational content refers to digital learning assets which includes any form of content or media made available on a personal device.

 

M-learning offers unique and modern ways to support learning process. It presents distinctive attributes compared to conventional e-learning: personal, interactive, contextual, portable, collaborative and situated, it emphasizes “just-in-time-learning” as instruction can be delivered anywhere and at any time through it. Moreover, it boosts formal, non-formal and informal learning and thus holds good potential to transform the delivery of education and training.

 

 

30.2 DIFFERENCE BETWEEN E- LEARNING AND MOBILE LEARNING

 

E-learning can be real-time or self-paced, also known as “synchronous” or “asynchronous” learning. Additionally, e-learning is considered to be “tethered” (connected to something). In contrast, mobile learning is often self- paced, un- tethered and informal in its presentation.

 

E- learning Mobile learning
lecture in classroom or internet labs learning anytime, anywhere
e-mail-to-e-mail immediate messaging
private location no geographic boundaries
travel time to reach to internet site no portable time with wireless internet connectivity

 

Further Mobile learning differs from e-Learning in the following ways:

  • More personal
  • Immediate response, Spontaneous
  • More connected
  • Fast learning
  • More fun
  • More interactive
  • Networked

 

30.3 APPLICATIONS OF MOBILE LEARNING

 

Miniature but portable e-learning – Mobile, wireless, and handheld technologies are flexible and good replacement for desktop technologies. Their unique miniature feature makes it very convenient for the user to travel with it at any time and any place. They are used as Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

 

Just-in-time training –Mobile learning has transcended time and space. Learning has become quick and immediate. There is no time lag and that is why it is possible in training with updated latest knowledge and expertise.

 

Informal, personalized, situated mobile learning – Technologies are further enhanced with additional functionality, for example location awareness through GPS (the Global Positioning System uses satellites to help users to navigate with accuracy) or video-capture, and arranged to deliver educational experiences that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. This makes it more informal, personalized and enhances situated learning.

 

Cater to rural and remote areas – The technologies are used to overcome environmental and infrastructural challenges to delivering and supporting education where conventional e-learning technologies would fail.

 

Gamification –Learning when delivered through fun becomes all the more interesting. Through mobile learning game-like tools and mechanics can be used to make learning more engaging. It has the potential of delivering significant experiences to students. Students are then rewarded and given appropriate re-enforcement for their hard work and effort. In incorporating Gamification it increases the potential of better retention.

 

Flash surveys—Mobile learning helps in flash surveys. It has a strong monitoring and evaluation system that provides timely feedback on project progress and impact. It is quick in its service in taking speedy feedback.

 

 

30.4 ESSENTIALS FOR MOBILE LEARNING

 

To check the authenticity and reliability Mobile Learning has to be evaluated rigorously. Following factors have to be kept in mind before and during the process of mobile learning;

  1. Mobile learning must be trustworthy and transferable
  2. Consistent with the teaching and learning philosophy
  3. Ethical in terms of standards from legal to normative
  4. Appropriate to the specific learning technologies and the ethos of the learning
  5. Efficient, in terms of cost, effort and time
  6. Authentic Content should be presented before the learners
  7. Aligned to the chosen medium and technology of learning

 

30.6 ADVANTAGES OF MOBILE LEARNING

 

Encourage ‘anywhere, anytime’ learning

 

A major advantage of using wireless mobile technology is to reach people who live in remote locations where there is little or no access to schools, teachers, laboratories and libraries. Mobile technology can be used to send instruction and information to these remote regions without having people to leave their geographic areas. This will help communities in such places since students and workers will not have to leave their families and jobs to go to a different location to learn or to access information.

 

Just-in-time learning

 

Just-in-time learning boosts high level learning since learner’s access and applies the information right away rather than learns the information and then applies the information at a later time. Educators are empowered since they can use the mobile technology to communicate with learners immediately. It allows for more rapid and dynamic update of course content.

 

Reach differently able children

 

Students with learning difficulties and differently able students benefit greatly from mobile learning. It gives them opportunities to feel more like their peers, and foster a sense of normalcy which thereby promotes integrated learning. In the social context it helps to mainstream all categories of children.

 

Improve twenty-first century social interactions

 

Mobile technologies have the power to promote and foster collaboration and communication, which are essential for twenty-first century success. The instructional focus is shifted to new pedagogical strategies that emphasize the learner rather than the teacher. This shift in pedagogy is an important step in maximizing the potential benefits of mobile learning.

 

Fit with learning environments

 

Mobile devices can help overcome many of the challenges related with larger technologies, as they fit more naturally within various learning environments. For instance, one can use the dictionary and thesaurus on Dictionary.com, or plan equations with Quick Graph, explore the world with Google Earth make your own stories with Story Kit, and explore the latest space missions with the NASA app. These, and many others, are free downloads that are ideal for educators to use with their students in school.

 

Reach economically backward children

 

Because of their relatively low cost and user-friendliness in low-income communities, handheld devices can help advance digital equity, reaching and inspiring populations ‘at the edges’ – children from economically disadvantaged communities and those from developing countries. It is affordable and user friendly.

 

Caters to individual difference

 

Each child has a unique learning style. Instruction should be catering and adaptable to individual and diverse learners. Mobile learning has significant opportunities for genuinely supporting differentiated and individualized learning through mobile devices. It enhances learning and dramatically improves retention.

 

Some Interesting Fact: Mobile Training can reduce classroom training costs by up to 80%

 

 

30.7CHALLENGES OF MOBILE LEARNING

 

Though Mobile learning usage is increasing in leaps and bounds to cater to all sections of the society still there are few challenges which need to be overcome.

 

Negative aspects of mobile learning

 

When mobile devices are integrated into children’s learning; cognitive and physical challenges must be addressed. It has the potential for distraction, physical health issues and unethical behavior.

 

Differentiated access and technology

 

There is wide range among mobile technologies. This brings a challenge for teachers and learners who wish to keep pace with the changing technology.

 

Limiting physical attributes

 

Physical aspects of mobile technologies that may prevent an optimal learning experience include: limited text entry, small screen size, and limited battery life. Poorly designed mobile technologies badly affect usability and can sidetrack children from learning goals. There is a limitation with respect to the volume of content also that can be sent.

 

Mobile Devices not designed for education

 

At present, most mobile devices are designed for commerce and other industry related use rather than for use in education, teaching and training. Hence, it is need of the hour that educators and trainers work with developers of mobile devices to build an “ideal” mobile device for education. The device must adapt to the learners’ needs and requirements rather than getting the learner to adapt to the mobile device.

 

Deviation of Cultural norms and attitudes

 

Though many experts believe that mobile devices have significant possibility to enhance children’s learning, parents and teachers are not yet convinced. Most teachers see cell phones as distractions and feel that they have no place in school. The devices are used for more fun than learning. Nowadays children are very sensitive and have less resistance. It ends up in having overprotected friendship and deviation of cultural norms and attitudes.

 

No mobile theory of learning

 

Currently, no widely accepted learning theory for mobile technologies has been established, hampering the effective evaluation, pedagogy, and design of new applications for learning.

 

Technical challenges include:

  • Copyright issue from authoring group
  • Limited data transfer rate and processing power
  • Limited memory
  • Challenge to cope up with new technology
  • Screen size and key size
  • Connectivity and battery life

 

Though there are few challenges but importance of mobile learning cannot be overlooked. It has to be remembered that mobile phones are not the only means of delivering content but are used in combination with other delivery methods like books, reference materials, audio-visual aids and other learning materials. This integrated use of resources and technology helps contribute to more meaningful learning experiences among teachers and learners.

 

Future of Mobile devices:

 

In 2017, it is expected that tablets will outsell PCs and Laptops

 

 

30.8 LET US SUM UP

 

Mobile learning or m-learning is the design and delivery of eLearning course through mobile devices, such as handheld and tablet computers, MP3 players, Smartphone and mobile phones. m-learning offers modern ways to support learning process It presents unique attributes compared to conventional e-learning: personal, portable, collaborative, interactive, contextual and situated, it emphasizes “just-in-time-learning” as instruction can be delivered anywhere and at anytime through it.

 

Difference between E- Learning and Mobile Learning

 

Applications of Mobile Learning

  • Miniature but portable e-learning
  • Just-in-time training
  • Informal, personalized, situated mobile learning
  • Cater to rural and remote areas
  • Gamification
  • Flash surveys

Essentials of Mobile Learning

  • Trustworthy and transferable
  • Efficient, in terms of cost, effort and time
  • Ethical
  • Appropriate to the specific learning technologies and the ethos of the learning
  • Consistent with the teaching and learning philosophy and conceptions of teaching and learning of all the participants
  • Authentic Content
  • Aligned to the chosen medium and technology of learning

 

Advantages of Mobile Learning

 

  • Encourage ‘anywhere, anytime’ learning
  • Just-in-time learning
  • Reach differently able children
  • Improve twenty-first century social interactions
  • Fit with learning environments
  • Reach economically backward children
  • Caters to individual difference

 

Challenges of Mobile Learning

  • Negative aspects of mobile learning
  • Differentiated access and technology
  • Limiting physical attributes
  • Mobile Devices not designed for education
  • Deviation of Cultural norms and attitudes
  • No mobile theory of learning
you can view video on Current Trends in E Learning

REFERENCE

 

1. http://elearninginfographics.com/10-mind-blowing-mobile-learning-statistics-infographic/

2. http://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3754742

3. http://www.educause.edu/ero/article/exploring-students-mobile-learning-practices-higher-education

4. http://ceur-ws.org/Vol-955/papers/paper_37.pdf

5. http://www.educause.edu/ero/article/exploring-students-mobile-learning-practices-higher-education

6. https://www.alumniportal-deutschland.org/en/study-continuing-education/continuing-education/article/mobile-learning-1.html

7. http://www.learndash.com/9-surprising-mobile-learning-facts/