Mobile technologies
support learning experiences that are collaborative, accessible and integrated
with the world beyond the classroom (Euducause, 2013). Using portable computing
devices, for instance, laptops, ipads, tablets and smartphones with wireless
networks enables mobile learning allowing teaching and learning to extend to
spaces beyond the traditional classroom (Euducause, 2013). Within the
classroom, mobile learning gives instructors and learners increased flexibility
and new opportunities for interaction (Euducause, 2013). Two mobile learning
technologies that one believes can enhance adult learning are smartphones and
ipads.
Smartphones
(www.wikipedia.com)
‘A smartphone is a mobile phone built on
a mobile operating system, with more advanced computing capability connectivity
than a feature phone (Wikipedia, 2013).’ Like ipads, smartphones’ have Wi Fi
and broadband allows faster internet connectivity and downloads of educational
apps which appeals to different learners. Allowing the usage of smartphones in
the teaching learning experience will foster engagement and collaborative
exercises among learners who can work in groups and share information with each
other. Smartphones prevent instructors
and learners from being confined to a personal computer. Its lightweight allows
it to be flexible to carried anywhere, at anytime and its high speed internet
allows easy access in seconds which enhances communication between learners and
instructors. Moreover smartphones encourages professional development for
teachers who are willing to integrate mobile learning among their learners.
Instructors will now have to explore various apps and learn how to use them to
create significant learning experience for their learners.
iPads
(www.wikipedia.com)
The iPad is a line of tablet computers designed with user interface
which is built around the device's multi
– touch screen screen, including a virtual keyboard (Wikipedia, 2013). Like
smartphones the iPad has built-in Wi Fi and, on some models, cellular
connectivity (Wikipedia, 2013). The iPad can shoot video, take photo, play
music and perform online functions such as web-browsing and emailing (Wikipedia,
2013). Other apps can be downloaded for mobile learning on this device among
learners. Such device when integrated in the teaching learning experience, with
its ability to download several apps such as Lectora, Flashcards and Evernotes,
will enhance individuals’ study, organizational and communication skills.
REFERENCES
Educause (2013).
Learning Technologies. Retrieved from www.educause.edu
Wikipedia (2013). iPads. Retrieved from www.wikipedia.com
Wikipedia (2013). Smartphones. Retrieved from www.wikipedia.com
No comments:
Post a Comment