2.4 PEDAGOGICAL PRINCIPLES IN M-LEARNING
In trying to understand how mobile technology can be appropriated for teaching and learning at a distance, we should start by looking at how different is mobile learning from other technologies that are used in teaching and learning (Laurillard, 2007). The strength of using mobile technologies is that they offer learning that is intimate, spontaneous, pervasive and versatile. Mobile learning “provides an enhanced cognitive environment in which distance learners can interact with their instructors, their course materials, their physical and the virtual environment†(Koole, 2009, p.38).
The difference between mobile learning and other technologies is that it has the ability to support situated learning (Kukulsa-Hulme & Traxler, 2005). Mobile learning provides students with opportunities to engage in authentic activities. In this context, students are able to explore, share and interact with each other as they try to learn together in their real life learning environments. The nature of mobile learning is that it tends to ascribe to the student-centered approach. This pedagogical approach assumes that students come into the learning environment with their own perceptual framework and therefore they need to be encouraged to construct their own meaning by talking and listening to each other, writing and reading as well as reflecting on content.
When students are in control of their learning, they are able to link up with other students in collaborative learning networks. Through peer collaboration, according to Laurillard (2007) students are more likely to be motivated to share their work with each other as well as to augment their conceptual understanding with others. In the distance education context, social interaction relates to the socio-emotional aspect of group forming and group dynamics (Kreijens, et al., 2003). UNISA students were able to set-up study-groups through MXit – a cell phone social network system, to help each other through difficult areas of their courses (Makoe, 2010). Mobile learning was able to facilitate this process through building communities of learners who are committed to working together to achieve a goal. “Collaborative learning leads to deeper level learning, critical thinking, shared understanding and long term retention of the learned material†(Kreijins et al., 2003, p.336) as well as developing communication and social skills. The question is how do we harness mobile technological features to support learning? Studying through printed media will and still remain one of the main medium of instruction in most developing countries such as Nigeria.
The pre-produced self-contained study material are developed with an explicit understanding that they facilitate access to learning especially to those people who live in marginalized, remote communities. However, several studies have reported that cell phones can be used in conjunction with printed material to support interactive pacing; just-in time instruction; network databases; interactive prompting; self-check assessment; facilitating summative and formative assessment; problem solving and collaborative learning. The challenge is how distance education providers integrate these activities to enhance the learning experience for distance education students.
2.5 CURRENT TRENDS IN M-LEARNING SYSTEMS
There is no guarantee for what the future holds. However, by taking a closer look at current technology trends we can get a glimpse at what is to come in the mobile learning Industry. Gamification, automation, and responsiveness are just some of the hot topics that we will be talking about the course of next year and beyond.
Brieflyhighlighted below are some of the current trends in M-Learning
1. Gamification in learning has become increasingly popular in recent years. However, all signs point to the fact that it will become an integral part of online training in 2016. Organization are starting to see the value of developing a successful Gamification strategy, especially if reluctant or unmotivated corporate learners are involved. Serious games often involves badges, points or leader boards that boosts engagement and drive learners to do their best. They can also involve various levels that learners must complete, with each level focusing on a key lesson or topic. Even if you do not have prior game design experience, yo still have the opportunity to develop winning serious games, thanks to advanced authoring tools that include m-learning templates, themes and asset libraries.
2. Automated Course Authoring. Automation is a relatively new concept in the world of m-learning. Though many m-learning authoring tools have offered m-learning templates, themes and other online assets for some time, this year it’s being taken to a new level. What does this mean for m-learning professionals? A drastic reduction in m-learning course cost and development time. A variety of tools are now integrating codes that automate the process. For example, you can now create m-learning assessment and games with minimal effort or automatically detect learners preferences in order to customize every aspect of their m-learning experience.
3. Wearable Tech Training. Google Glass, Oculus Rift and the Apple Watch are just three of the wearable gadgets taking the world by storm. Wearable tech devices give learners the opportunity to interact with the subject matter in a more dynamic way. They also make m-learning more accessible and engaging for your audience, even those who do not usually have the time to receive formal training. In the near future, learners may have the chance to walk in virtual training environments and immerse themselves in meaningful m-learning games. Augmented reality has the power to drastically change the m-learning industry and completely transform the nature of online training. There are even 3D simulation tools that can make the m-learning design process easier and more cost efficient. With the advancement in modern technology, it appears that Virtual Reality (VR) training may be just around the corner.
4. Big Data. Big data is a big deal,especially in the realm of m-learning. It gives developers the ability to improve the m-learning courses, custom tailor every m-learning activity and gain valuable insights into learning behaviors and preference, by using analytics tools, which are built into a variety of Learning Management Systems, you have the power to fine tune your m-learning strategy and ensure that every aspect of your m-learning course is in line with your goals and objectives. There are plenty of other feedback tools that can utilize, such as surveys, focus groups and numbers that delve into every element of your m-learning experience. Before choosing your next learning Management System, make certain that it offers the reporting features you need and focuses on key areas of your m- learning course design and audience research.
5. Responsive Learning Management Systems. Responsive design courses are accessible on all platforms and devices. In essence, the Learning Management System or authoring tool automatically adjusts the m-learning course elements from text blocks to images, based on screen size and resolution. This ensures that every member of your audience gets the same m-learning experience and benefits from your m-learning course. When you are looking for the ideal responsive Learning Management System option for one that has a built-in previewer and customization tool. These features allows you to get a glimpse of your m-learning course on different mobile devices screens, then manually adjusts certain elements to improve the aesthetics and m-learning course navigation.
6. Cloud Based Systems. Everything is better on the cloud, which is probably why so many Learning Management System and authoring tools are now switching to cloud- based platforms. Cloud based corporate training has been steadily growing in popularity. This is primarily due to the fact that many organizations are beginning to see that the pros outweighs the cons. Data security has been a major issue in the past. However, advanced encryption measures are improving the safety of sensitive data on the cloud. Companies who take a cloud based approach have the opportunity to reduce online training costs and make it more accessible for employees. They can also scale their online training initiatives with ease and update the contents in a matter of minutes to include new product specs and features.
