What is mobile learning?
Mobile learning involves the use of mobile technology, either alone or in combination with other information and communication technology, to enable learning anytime and anywhere. Learning can unfold in a variety of ways: people can use mobile devices to access educational resources, connect with others, or create content, both inside and outside classrooms. Mobile learning also encompasses efforts to support broad educational goals such as the effective administration of school systems and improved communication between schools and families.
Over the past ten years mobile learning has grown from a minor research interest to a set of significant projects in schools. The mobile learning community is still fragmented. Advancements in mobile learning will require a change from traditional classroom approach to a digital approach that will suit mobile learners.
Many schools and companies are finding ways to expand mobile learning such as:
- providing all students with tablet computers for use in the classroom or at home (this is being done regularly at K-12 schools throughout the country)
- creating apps specifically designed for mobile learning on smartphones or tablets
- using text messaging/SMS notifications as an adjunct or replacement to traditional course notifications
It remains to be seen how far this trend will progress, but one thing is certain; as a current or prospective student it can only help if you have a working knowledge of portable electronic devices.
