Mobile learning (mLearning) involves the use of connected mobile devices as learning tools. "It enables, empowers, and engages learning in ways that transform the learning environment for students inside and outside of school" (West, 2013, para. 3). Mobile learning occurs with and without the instructions of educators as individuals access information, download applications, and communicate with others each day. This blog explores how smartphones and tables are used in mobile learning.
Reference
West, D. (2013). Mobile learning: Transforming education, engaging students, and improving outcomes. Brookings.edu. Retrieved from https://www.brookings.edu/research/mobile-learning-transforming-education-engaging-students-and-improving-outcomes/
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SMARTPHONES basically have the same capabilities as any computer and are used on a daily basis for a variety of tasks. Most learners, if not all of them, have access to a smartphone. This makes it a convenient educational instrument. "One of the most significant mLearning benefits is that lot of the learning takes place while commuting. And for this, smartphones are the easiest and the most prompt to access" (Kaintura, 2016, para. 1).
The capabilities of smartphones allow learners to download applications that promote academic learning. Prompt communication can take place as well. Furthermore, applications used on smartphones may be utilized by other devices, which provides options for learning. A benefit of this interchangeability is that learning can continue without disruption if issues occur with one's smartphone. As a future educator, I would incorporate smartphones as a way to provide educational applications for skills-building. I would also send out course material as email attachments for students to view. The URL below provides additional information on benefits of smartphones in mobile learning.
https://elearningindustry.com/mlearning-benefits-online-education
Reference
Kaintura, S. (2016). How mLearning benefits online education. eLearningIndustry. Retrieved from https://elearningindustry.com/mlearning-benefits-online-education
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TABLETS are just as efficient and effective as smartphones as they conveniently function in everyday life. This device is a natural fit in learning environments. It is more engaging than traditional educational methods as it offers touch screens and interactive applications and software. "Today’s learners prefer multimedia -videos, podcasts, audio- to keep them engaged in a learning environment" (Jenkins, 2016, para. 6). Tablets allow learners to quickly access information and to communicate with instructors and classmates with ease.
With its flexibility and many functions, tablets can bridge home, academics, and careers. As a future educator, I would take advantage of the communication capabilities and send links to learners to provide learning opportunities outside of the classroom. Additionally, I would encourage learning in a real-world context by asking learners to use their personal interests and experiences to create videos and collaborations. The URL below provides more information on benefits of mobile devices in the classroom.
https://elearningindustry.com/6-benefits-byod-classroom
Reference
Jenkins, J. (2016). 6 mobile learning benefits: the mobile learning revolution. eLearningIndustry. Retrieved from https://elearningindustry.com/6-mobile-learning-benefits-mobile-learning-revolution
