m-Learning is one of the latest developments in e-Learning, which takes advantage of mobile devices for learning
on accessible portable platforms; ideal for people on the go or for taking your training away when you can’t
access a regular computer. The term has more recently been adopted for the use of e-learning on mobile device
platforms, meaning smart phones and tablets like the iPad or Samsung Galaxy.
e-Learning on an iPhone?
Smart phones now make up a significant proportion of mobile phones in the UK and worldwide. As businesses start
to grow outside of the office, it makes sense that training should be available to people who are on the go.
We can develop mobile learning in any number of formats, whether it be a short video that can be watched on
the move, or an interactive app that utilises all of the usual functions of great e-learning such as quizzes
and assessments.
Who can use mobile Learning?
Like all learning and training styles, different people learn in different ways, but it’s fair to say that
with over 1 billion apps downloaded from the Apple store alone, mobile phones are becoming a part of everyday
life. In particular, younger generations are growing up using mobile devices to access the Internet and complete
tasks as part of their school and college work. In particular, apprenticeships can be part delivered using
e-learning instead of having the student visit college; using a mobile device to deliver this training means
they can learn anywhere they have their phone available, so they’re not restricted to an office computer if
resources are tight.
…and who does use it?
Mobile learning has already been adopted by a number of organisations across the world, developing short videos
and documents to help with employees who are out on the road. You may have even used it yourself by using a website
like Wikipedia on your phone to brush up your knowledge while waiting for a bus.
Is this the future of e-Learning?
Technology is always moving forward and there is no doubt that m-Learning will become a major contributing
factor to education and training, but like all great developments, it’s how it can work together with existing
technologies that makes m-learning such an important tool. Specifically the growing use of smart phones and apps
alongside a cloud based Learning Management System (like our own E>nable).
Some of the advanced functions of mobile devices will soon become commonplace in work based training, such as
- GPS for location based training
- Camera functionality for documenting and uploading work into e-portfolios
- Augmented reality (AR) for overlaying teaching tools on real world items
Can I create my own training materials?
If you can film a presentation, you can watch it back on your mobile. If you want to make more complex training, there
are several tools available to buy, or you can work with a dedicated specialist team, like we have at Virtual College.
If you’re interested in finding out more about mobile apps, on-the-go training or converting your existing materials
into bite size refresher modules, contact us today on 01943 605976, or email info@virtual-college.co.uk