What are the benefits of Mobile Learning?

By: J. Seif

In order to understand the benefits of Mobile Learning, one must first understand the theoretical framework that conceptually guides it.  According to Sharples et al. (2007), the Theory of Mobile Learning is essential if we are to understand the role of mobility and communication in our learning environments.  In addition, Shuler (2009) suggests that the most important feature of Mobile Learning is that the learner is mobile, not the technology.  This concept is often misunderstood or inaccurately represented.

As an adult learner, the ability to learn on the go and not be restricted to a specific place to participate in post-graduate studies is a priority.  In addition, other benefits include,

• a variety of mobile apps that support learning,
• Mobile Learning is supported on multiple devices such as laptops, smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices and,
• Mobile Learning presents information in formats that are accessible in a variety of multimedia formats such as videos, PDFs, audio recordings and photos.

It would be negligent of me not to mention some of the challenges that Mobile Learning presents within a 21^st century learning environment. Designing learning materials for mobile devices and dealing with connectivity issues are two (2) of the most documented concerns that educators and students experience alike.

References

Sharples, M., Taylor, J., & Vavoula, G. (2007). A theory of learning for the mobile age. In R. Andrews, & C. Haythornthwaite (Eds.), The Sage handbook of e-learning research (pp. 221-247). London: Sage. doi:10.4135/9781848607859.n10

Shuler, C. (2009). Pockets of potential: Using mobile technologies to promote children’s learning. New York: The Joan Ganz Cooney Center at Sesame Workshop.