MLearning is a medium and a method of learning that has gained a stellar reputation amongst inquisitive minds. Quick, convenient and mobile, the demand for MLearning is huge. A craving for learning is stirring, considering the amount of information available today, as well as the amount of things we need to know about this rapidly changing world we live in. With new inventions and evolving technologies the world becomes better, yet simultaneously, more and more complex. We need to stay ahead, or at best, keep up. Mobile Learning offers learning techniques to accommodate an on-the-go and knowledge-hungry target population.

Used as a tool for mobilised eLearning, Social Learning, Augmented Learning and just-in-time training, a world of learning possibilities exist through the range of wireless hand-held devices available today.

MLearning, ELearning & the Traditional Ways

In my previous article, eLearning and the world of MOOCs were discussed in comparison to traditional pedagogies. MLearning is based on the same principles as ELearning with a few perks and variants. I have established the reasons why eLearning is a positive shift away from the methods of traditional learning. The same goes for MLearning:

In summary, the benefits of learning digitally:

• Material is there to revisit at any time.
• Videos to be watched over and over until concepts are properly grasped.
• Missed class does not result in students falling behind and being unable to catch up.
• Class time or “face to face” time with teachers become more useful and valuable.
• Responsibility and discipline is encouraged – no more spoon feeding.
• Quick quizzes shows you your strong points and weak points and hence – where to focus more of your time and energy.
• Quick generated reports provide proper detailed feedback
• Student social platforms inspire greater student to student or scholar to scholar interaction.

Mobile Learning in a Word

Instead of supplying multiple pages of textual study material, mobile learning will rather employ brief and concise information. These will work in collaboration with visually stimulating learning materials.  These include:

• Videos
• Info graphics
• Podcasts
• Audio lectures
• Educational games
• Quizzes
• Discussion group forums

Learners are generally huge fans of studying from visually rich content. As discussed in a previous article, visually interesting content promotes learning.

An animated image with combined audio grabs and holds attention... The combination of visually interesting material and well written audio scripts incorporating jingles and music will affect the level of concentration and discipline that students hold.

- Think with Vision: Communicate visually with Online Video, by Carla van Straten

Mobile loves visually rich content, and the reason is simple – on small screen sizes, images, videos and graphical content, are easier to consume than rows and rows of text.

Social media platforms for discussion groups allow for interaction between learners. MLearning is hereby supporting Social Learning initiatives through providing tools for sharing information, engaging in conversation and getting feedback, effortlessly. 

How It’s Used

MLearning has developed into becoming an informal method of convenient learning for people with on-the-go lifestyles – for those who want or need access to portable learning material wherever and whenever they choose. MLearning is often effectively used as an additional aid to learning when used in collaboration with eLearning programs and MOOCs. It could even be employed to work in support of traditional learning.

Augmented or Just-In-Time Learning

MLearning works specifically well as a tool for Augmented or just-in-time Learning. Augmented Learning refers to a learning method where information is made a available on demand. You are able to study a subject, review guidelines or follow instructions as you need it. This is in contrast to deferred learning where material is memorised for use at a later stage. The learning process adapts completely to one’s current context.

Mobile Learning for a Mobile Work Force

MLearning is a great medium for Augmented Learning and training in the corporate sector. Workers could review materials as they need it to conduct their work, immediately applying their knowledge practically. It is a convenient tool for expanding one’s understanding of a certain concept, subject or term as it is about to be dealt with in a business environment. MLearning could also save work situations where challenges arise. Problem solving information and guidelines are the typical kind of readily available learning material supported by MLearning.

This type of just-in-time learning is crucial in the world of today where complexity is born with every new product on the shelf. We need to understand new concepts as they are born, we need to know the logistics of how things work, what is happening in foreign countries, and we need to be knowledgeable of developments that could improve our own life quality.

MLearning For All!

A variety of handheld Mobile devices are available todayand they are more affordable than computers and laptops. They are also becoming more affordable as new cost-effective technologies are developed, and therefore, new opportunities for learning and training are reaching more people than ever before arise. This will help bridge the global digital divide while decreasing the massive number of disadvantaged uneducated persons all over the world. MLearning caters for the educational demands of the current age, serving up a world of knowledge on a shiny silver platter.

Sound Idea Digital specialises in Learning Management Systems and eLearning developments | soundidealearningmanagement.co.za

Carla van Straten is a Writer for Sound Idea Digital | Carla@soundidea.co.za