Thinking Differently About Mobile Learning
By Cheryl Johnson

Too often when we think of mobile learning we think in familiar terms: modules, quizzes, tests, assessments. If we are to truly begin using the power mobile learning offers, we need to embrace old concepts presented in new modes. Sure, it is currently easier to create modules, quizzes, tests, assessments, and the like for small handheld devices.  But people learn in many other—informal—methods.

Most agree that learning does not always to take place in a formal setting. For example, consider the concept of EPSS when using a computer as an informal way to get the information we need now and apply its use immediately. Mobile learning enables us to expand on that concept and learn in an informal way, even when we away from a computer. 

The diagram below outlines where mobile and traditional learning differ in their approaches, as well as where they intersect—where they are the same.

As we look at some of the similarities, it is easy to see that we learn in both capacities. Workers gather, acquire, and reference information in both cases. Quite often that information is online. However, that is where the similarities stop. There are far more differences, and those differences are stark. 

When considering a topic for mobile learning, it is important to determine if it is beneficial or necessary for the learner to have immediate access to the information or whether it is better for them to learn the information in one environment and then transfer it to another.  A strong case can be made for either situation. As instructional designers, it is our job to determine which method will best suit the needs of the project. 

Listed below are some mediums that are easily accessed in a mobile environment:

As you can see, Web 2.0 technology lends itself well to mobile learning. Too often we think of learning as a formal experience in which an expert presents information for learners to digest and decipher. However, “learning” does not always come from experts, although experts can still play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of content being distributed. You will notice that I used the word “distributed” rather than “presented”.  Because information travels quickly over the web and other social learning mediums, experts still need to monitor these mediums to ensure what is valid.

To be sure, peer learning provides everyone an opportunity to pipe in and join the community of knowledge that exists, based on their experiences. As well, peers can challenge that information based on their own personal knowledge and experience. There are occasions that a person, deemed to be an expert, should have the final (temporary) say on what is accurate.  To help keep information current, the final say should be considered temporary to accommodate the ever changing pipeline of information. 

Mobile learning is not about strictly about distributing modules on portable devices. Mobile learning is a mindset that encourages people to learn on the go and in a more informal setting. It changes the face of knowledge presentation to knowledge distribution. It enables access at the moment of need and does not require the learner to put the information in to long term memory channels. 

As information changes rapidly, so should our medium for learning and acquiring knowledge. When used properly and promoted in a way that is easy for students to access, mobile learning will simply become another means of knowledge transfer.