Mobile learning or mLearning refers to the use of mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops to enhance the learning experience of the learner. Rather than being restricted to a traditional classroom setting, learners can use their mobile devices to access learning content and complete learning activities on the go. mLearning has been around for several years now and has gained immense popularity among learners of all ages.
What is mobile learning?
Definition of mobile learning
Mobile learning is a type of learning that allows learners to use mobile technology to gain access to relevant learning content anytime and anywhere. In simpler terms, it means learning through mobile devices such as tablets, smartphones, and laptops. The content delivered via mobile devices may include text, audio, and video, along with interactive features such as quizzes.
One of the biggest benefits of mLearning is that people can learn from anywhere and at any time.
Examples of mobile learning
Mobile learning comes in different forms. For instance, learners can use mobile learning apps to learn a new language, solve math problems, or test their knowledge of a particular subject. Additionally, mobile devices can be used to access online courses, participate in social learning, and utilize interactive multimedia resources. Mobile learning programs are tailored to meet different learning styles and preferences.
Benefits of mobile learning
There are numerous benefits of mobile learning. One of the most significant advantages is that learners can access learning content anytime and anywhere, making learning easy and convenient. Mobile learning also eliminates the need for a classroom setting, allowing learners to complete their learning activities offline. Additionally, mobile learning helps learners to utilize their time better, especially during their daily commutes or travel, giving them an opportunity to learn while still on-the-go. Alternative activities or instructions can be provided for students who don’t have or don’t want to use their smartphones.
How is mobile learning used?
Using mobile devices for learning
Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets can be utilized to access learning content on the go. With this approach, learners can use their personal mobile devices to gain access to relevant learning content without being restricted to a physical classroom setting. In doing so, they can learn at their own pace, and the learning content can be tailored to their individual learning styles.
According to a large number of students, mobile devices have made studying and communication with instructors and peers more convenient. The authors of the study suggest that both students and instructors require technical, logistical, and pedagogical assistance to effectively incorporate mobile devices and apps into both formal and informal learning settings.
Educational apps always come in handy. When people don’t have direct access to education, for example, schools are closed or people can’t travel to a physical educational institution, they are here to save the day. But there is certainly more to them.
Learning through mobile apps
Mobile learning apps provide an effective way for learners to gain access to bite-sized learning content that can be consumed in short, easily-digestible chunks. Learning apps can be designed to deliver continuous learning notifications to learners, reminding them of assigned learning material and keeping them engaged in the learning process. The apps can also be designed to offer relevant content that is responsive to the learner’s performance. Many mobile-learning activities do not require a smartphone but only basic phone features like text messages and/or a camera.
Mobile learning vs. eLearning: what’s the difference?
Mobile learning and eLearning differ in that eLearning involves using electronic devices such as laptops and desktops to access online course content in a traditional classroom or remote learning setting. On the other hand, mobile learning is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of the learner who uses mobile devices to access learning content anytime and anywhere, and consume shorter, bite-sized learning content.
What are the benefits of mobile learning?
Personalized learning experiences
Mobile learning has been designed to offer personalized learning experiences to learners. The learning content is accessible on-demand, allowing the learner to access material that is most relevant to them. Additionally, mobile learning platforms can customize the course content to the exact needs and preferences of the learner, providing them with the most effective learning experience.
Bite-sized learning content
Mobile learning content is designed to be easily digestible. The content is delivered in bite-sized chunks that can be consumed in small, manageable increments. This approach provides learners with an opportunity to learn a little at a time and helps to reduce cognitive overload.
Mobile learning provides employees with the flexibility to access training content at all times, promoting increased engagement and convenience while on-the-go.
Learning on the go
One of the most significant benefits of mobile learning is that it allows learners to learn on the go. With mobile devices, learners can access learning content whether they are travelling, waiting for a meeting, or in-between jobs. This approach eliminates the need for learners to be tied to a physical classroom setting, therefore, providing them with greater flexibility and freedom to learn at their own pace.
Mobile learning, also known as mLearning, is a broad concept that involves internet or network-based education using personal mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and digital notebooks.
How can mobile learning improve learning outcomes?
Increasing knowledge retention
Mobile learning provides an opportunity for learners to interact with learning content using multimedia and interactive features such as quizzes. This approach increases the learners’ engagement and helps them to achieve better knowledge retention. Additionally, mobile learning courses can be designed to include regular assessments to help learners track their progress and retention of course material.
mlearning makes it easy for learners to connect with other students, including via social media, your membership platform or through in-app features. Get excited about mlearning! With its social media integration, membership platform connectivity, and in-app features, learners can easily connect with each other and expand their knowledge network. This means you can stay engaged with your fellow students and share your progress seamlessly, all while achieving your learning goals. Don’t miss out on the chance to make new connections and make the most out of your mlearning experience!
Facilitating self-paced learning
Mobile learning allows learners to learn at their own pace. As such, learners can take their time with the learning material, which can result in better learning outcomes. This approach accommodates different learning styles and preferences, providing learners with an opportunity to learn in a way that suits them best, and that resonates with their unique learning rhythms.
Improving completion rates
Mobile learning offers learners with greater flexibility and access to course content, enhancing their levels of engagement and motivation. This approach leads to increased completion rates as learners can access learning material on their own terms, anytime and anywhere. Regular notifications can help learners stay on track and complete the assigned learning activities on time.
What are some examples of mobile learning programs?
Duolingo
Duolingo is a mobile learning app that provides users with an opportunity to learn a new language at their own pace. The app delivers learning content in bite-sized chunks, allowing learners to learn a little at a time. Duolingo incorporates interactive features such as quizzes and gamification, which makes the learning experience more engaging and fun.
Quizlet
If you’re seeking an enjoyable and effective means of enhancing your skills and knowledge across various subjects, then Quizlet is the ideal app to explore. It offers an extensive selection of categories, ranging from arts and humanities, languages, math, science, and social sciences to hobbies such as cooking, trivia, traveling, and video games. With Quizlet, you can effortlessly learn through online flashcards, diagrams, practice tests, and study guides that are all readily available online. Try it out and enjoy an exceptional learning experience!
Flashcard apps for language learning
Flashcard apps are designed to teach learners new vocabulary in a fun and interactive way. Users can create their flashcards or use pre-made flashcards to learn a new language. Flashcard apps are suitable for learners of all levels and can be customized to meet individual learning styles.
With this application, learning becomes an enjoyable experience as it offers captivating exercises and concise lessons that are easy to comprehend. As you use the app, you can collect virtual coins, advance through different levels, and improve your score while discovering new phrases and vocabulary. It’s an amazing tool to enhance your learning experience.
Using mobile devices for online courses
Mobile devices can be used to access online courses offered by various institutions. This approach provides learners with an opportunity to learn anytime and anywhere and to complete courses at their own pace. Mobile devices allow learners to access course content in small, easily digestible chunks, which makes the learning experience more manageable and less overwhelming.
Conclusion
Mobile learning has revolutionized the way we learn by providing learners with unprecedented access to learning content anytime and anywhere. The benefits of mobile learning are numerous, including greater flexibility, convenience, and personalized learning experiences. With mobile learning, anyone can learn on their own terms and at their own pace, making the learning experience enjoyable and fulfilling. By designing your mobile learning course, you can take advantage of the benefits of mobile learning to meet the diverse needs of learners and support continuous learning in your organization.
