Five ways of effective mLearning delivery

Mobile learning is often hailed as the ‘next generation of e-Learning’. With the increasing affordability and capability of mobile devices, mobile learning is slowly but surely making its presence felt in field of education – especially in corporate learning. This is not to say that mobile learning is set to dismantle existing learning platforms, but it can support and re-enforce learning by playing up its strengths. Mobile learning is spontaneous, learner-centric, informal, personalized and ubiquitous. With that in mind, we suggest some ways to deliver successful mobile learning.

1. Text-based

Though it is possible to share and store entire text documents on a mobile device, reading while on the move is always a challenge. Short nuggets of textual information work best for the mobile platform.

• Classroom notes can be shared post an instructor-led session to enhance and re-enforce the learning. These notes should ideally summarize topics to give a quick recap for the learners, to revise and refresh when they want.
• Checklists can also be prepared for topics, which will further increase retention and ease of learning. The checklists can highlight the crux of the learning through tabulated pointers. The learner-friendly tabulated design helps learners quickly gain insight, when and where they need it.
• Mini-lessons can be sent out as practice assignments so that learners can practise newly acquired skills outside of the class and hone them to perfection. This method is often used when using mobile learning to develop language skills. The instructor sends out word lists every day, using new words in multiple contexts. The learners are encouraged to infer their meanings and try to use the words in their conversations, which helps to build their vocabulary and the grasp on the language.

2. Podcasts

Audio is an element that works very well on the mobile platform. When reading is not a comfortable option, for instance while travelling, the learner can just listen to a podcast to learn on the move.

• Audio can be descriptive to help learners gain deeper insights into a course or topic.
• Short podcasts can also be developed that provide instantaneous knowledge at the time of need. For instance, a short podcast on the importance of pronunciation and some suitable examples can empower an executive minutes before an important presentation.
• In-house podcasts can be developed as tool for knowledge sharing between peers. Senior managers can also use quick audio recordings to boost the morale of the entire team.

3. Videos

Videos find an instant appeal among all learner groups. In mobile learning, videos are increasingly gaining popularity as a means of delivering just-in-time learning.

• Short learning videos can be developed that encapsulate concepts or topics through a mix of minimal text and basic graphics. These videos provide a quick and instantaneous learning opportunity for the learner, which helps them gain quick knowledge.
• ‘To-Do’ videos can also be developed and shared – illustrating processes through images, graphics or simple animations that give a quick recap to the learner. This might not be the best way to learn a new process, but it is a powerful support tool that helps the learner enhance his or her performance.
• Knowledge sharing videos can also be developed by the learners themselves and shared among the learner group.

4. Infographics

When reading space is constricted and the opportunity to read is scarce, infographics can be utilized to convey information. Infographics have great utility in mobile learning as they are easily created and easily disseminated.

• Infographics use graphics and minimal text to create visual representations of concepts, which works very well for the mobile platform.
• The graphics can be made to suit changing screen sizes in order to deliver the same learner experience across multiple mobile devices.
• Most infographics are image files that are compatible with all learner devices and take up very little hard-disk space. They can thus be saved or stored in the device and utilized as and when the need arises.

5. Mobile Games

Mobile-based games provide the opportunity to learn in an interactive and engaging manner. The new-age learner is used-to playing games on mobile devices and does not perceive it as a conscious ‘act of learning.’

• A variety of mobile-based games can be developed – to hone skill, assess awareness or increase knowledge.
• Social games are very popular. These games pit learners against their peers and bring in the flavor of healthy competition.
• Simpler game-play and shorter game duration make mobile games popular – especially among adult learners.

With the advancement of technology and superior device capabilities, the scope of mobile learning is ever increasing. The ways listed above are only some of many that can be employed to effectively reach out to your learners through the mobile platform. To learn more about the latest in mobile learning and how to harness this learning to suit your needs, write to in**@gc**********.net

For more information, you may also refer to the following links:

• http://airccse.org/journal/ijdps/papers/0112ijdps26.pdf
• http://www.slideshare.net/AnnaMlearn/mobile-learning-in-language-classroom
• http://elearningindustry.com/mobile-games-for-adult-learning-what-is-the-appeal