Sharples, M., Taylor, J. and Vavoula, G. (2005) Towards a Theory of Mobile Learning [online], http://onlinesapiens.wordpress.com/category/blogging-in-education/
There are claims that m-learning is special because it
- assumes learners are on the move
- we learn across space, take ideas with us from one location to another. Always thinking
- We move from topic to topic rather than a single curriculum
- We move in and out of connection
I don’t believe that mlearning is any different to distance learning by paper, yes, it’s different to f2f teaching but not paper. Mlearning is not about leanring but about access to learning. Learning materials online via mobile phone rather than carrying around paper.
The author states that mlearning should be analysed so we can better understand where and whenpeope learn so we can provide for these opportunities for learning when people have spare time and don’t want to carry around paper.
Increased PT and Online study, a decreased amount of time to commit to study so we need to help students find time, lifelong learning trends all have an impact on mlearning.
“There may be opportunities to design new technology that supports learning during the growing amouints of time spend travelling” but research showed only 1% of people currently study during travel time.
US National Research COuncil in 1999 – effective learning is
- learniung centred
- knowledcge centred
- Assessment centred
- communitiy centred
This is a social constructivist apparoch to learning where learning is an acive process building knowledge and skills through practice in a supportive environment.
MLearning allows learning to continue anytime anwywhere, when internet is accessibly. BUt this depends on the preparedness of individuals to change the technology they use for certain activities (See Activity 8 for stuff on acceptance).
“essentially mobile connected technology enables people to communicate regardless of their location”
The article argues not to see m-learning as another type of interaction but another technology (such as print, computer) that can change the way we T and L and take advantage of the communication is enables.
Activity based learning and OL learning v. f2f changes control of learning to the learner, they work at their own pace and follow their own curriculum. Technology enables ol learning which shifts control /communication.
