Mobile Learning

One of the aspects of mobile learning that I am familiar with as an ID is designing elearning projects that are responsive in nature. Previously, most online learning programs were devoid of this feature. However, nowadays an increasing number of eLearning software such as Adobe Captivate and StoryLine 360 offer the ability to design eLearning projects as "responsive" projects. This basically means that the developed course can be viewed across various platforms--desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones. the screen and various interactive elements automatically adjust the interface to suit across a variety of learning platforms. This, indeed , gives the learner the flexibility to learn on the go on a device of their choice.

Mobile learning already is taking place all the time. It could be someone taking an online meditation course, learning a new language on the bus or finding the answer to a question being debated. Mobile learning takes place in more than just a "Formal Education Environment" it takes place in small doses throughout many people commutes, r&r time and social settings. I find mobile learning extremely helpful in many of my music classes especially when students do self-directed projects like learning new songs or researching new techniques. With the increasing cost of keeping technology up to date, mobile learning is a great way to get over the lack of $$$ hurdle and embark in the new direction you wish to move with your teaching.

Mobile learning has the capacity to support deeper learning approaches, which are defined as “mastery of content that engages students in critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and self-directed learning” (William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, 2014). As mentioned in the 2017 Horizons Report for K-12 Education, mobile devices, coupled with improved speed and access to the internet, has allowed learning to be possible anywhere, anytime. Brain games and language apps (e.g., Duolingo) are examples of microlearning that happens in the in between moments of the everyday. Educators can utilize the ubiquity of mobile devices in the classroom by educating students on how to use the technology they already hold in their hands to their benefit. By incorporating powerful mobile apps that offer self-paced learning opportunities in different subject areas to those that incorporate the budding field of AR and MR into the classroom, we can empower everyday educators to embrace technology without having to break the bank on purchasing new hardware for every student. In tandem with other emerging technologies, such as immersive experiences (AR, VR and MR), learning analytics, 5G, microlearning, machine learning, and more, mobile learning will continue to grow and change our educational systems.

Mobile learning is an important element of education. Mobile devices are more affordable than traditional computers, laptops, or the costs associated with attending a school in person. This makes education accessible to those who could otherwise not afford to access it. Not only that but if done correctly it has the ability to deliver content in an engaging and powerful medium. It has makes ideas like microlearning possible. I believe that the combination of mobile and micro learning will make a powerful combination when it comes to how content is delivered and then accessed by students.

Mobile learning is much more than ‘anytime, anywhere’ access to digital multimedia information, courseware and instant messaging services. Increasingly cheaper, more powerful smartphones and faster wireless networks are becoming more available in traditionally marginalized and underserved regions of the world. This will drive entrepreneurs in those regions to develop educational and learning-related apps and services that reflect the priorities, perspectives and understandings of their own cultural contexts. These will be much more successful than the North American- and European-centric offerings that have thus far been the only or most dominant available options. At the same time, I’m hopeful that academics in those Western countries will start to develop new pedagogies founded specifically on the unique affordances of mobile computing cultures.

Mobile learning has become a very important tool in education. Everyone who has access to a phone has access to an education. They can complete course work, read texts, and engage with other students and colleagues with the use of a mobile device. As an educator I believe that students need to be taught how to use a mobile device to be successful with their learning. We cannot expect students to use mobile devices inside the classroom without the distractions of the outside world. I think that utilizing what they have already is important to helping them be ready for the outside world. Using mobile devices in a classroom setting would require teachers to set expectations. I think mobile learning would benefit many students around the world of having the ability to be included in a classroom in the palm of their hands no matter where they are.