Today, moving away from the traditional classroom, more and more people are making use of technology for learning purposes. People are recognizing the benefits of mobile learning, hence, the approach becoming more of standard rather than an exception. Mobile learning (M-learning) refers to learning with the help of mobile devices, laptops or other similar portable technologies. It involves going through content and social interactions including multiple contexts. A popular technology that facilitates this form of learning is ezTalks. ezTalks is an online-based video conferencing platform that allows you to connect with others anywhere in the world, around the clock. The amazing software platform is integrated with content sharing, audio conferencing, remote control, screen sharing, video conferencing (HD) and much more Its dynamic use can be employed in many fields such as finance, community, training, government, education and many more. Part 1: Benefits of Mobile Learning • Accessibility: M-learning supports both active and voluntary learning. It provides an environment that allows access to peers, content, portfolio artifacts, experts and much more. This level of constant accessibility can be from a laptop, tablet or smartphone or just in person. • Increased cloud-based collaboration: With the cloud platform been the key to mobility, its accessibility provides availability of learning materials including all data resources, thus, opening doors to inaccessible forms of collaboration and revision. • Performance Metrics of Knowledge: This form of learning provides diversified measures of performance and comprehension when it comes to application of knowledge. • Asynchronous Learning Experience: M-learning allows you to have a personalized learning experience. When it comes to understand things, people are different. Here, the time provided is enough or adaptable to anyone. • Integration of various Learning Styles: Mobile learning addresses the entire concept of integrated learning (personal communication, digital interaction and physical movement) such as listening to a podcast, use of videos to learn and also research. • Transparency: This is the byproduct of mobility, collaboration and connectivity. Through social media platforms such as Facebook, twitter and Linkedln, Mobile learning gets a fast audience both in regional and global communities. This is all possible because performance, reflection, evaluation, thinking and planning are both digital and mobile.
• Diverse Thinking: Mobility in M-learning comes along with diversity. With constantly changing learning environments, the way of thinking has evolved as a result of new challenges, ideas and opportunities. Collaborating audiences think diversely and are also diverse. • Learning support: The support provided to learners is continuous. It facilitates individualized tutoring, advice and access to resources for learners and teachers. The learning experience is very rewarding. • Course creation and content delivery options: The learners see mobile learning application as a tool for referencing. Course accessibility through devices allows learners to get hold of authentic and useful information. Part 2: Limitations of Mobile Learning • Cost: A mobile device with limited functionality capabilities may not be suitable for mlearning. Hence, a student has no option but to get one with the required level of functionality so as to access the online courses. This mobile device may be relatively expensive. • Size inconvenience: The mobile device normally has a small screen size where the student is forced to strain their eyes as they access the online resources. The information provided may also be incomplete due to the limited size of the device. • Limited storage: Memory storage that is available in mobile devices may not be enough to store numerous offline content and other downloaded resources. • Unexpected distractions: These distractions may be in the form of a simple SMS, notification or call as someone accesses online content. • Short battery life: Most devices discharge quickly especially when there are a number of active apps within the device. This could be a major problem for learning across lengthy periods of time. • Limited connectivity: Limited bandwidth may make it difficult to access online content. • Technological problems: Mobile learning can be challenging if there's no device standardization. Teachers may face the problem of keeping all their students on the same level since smartphones and tablets have access to different operating systems and hardware. The students may not be able to engage in online discussions or even access the coursework.
Today, we rely more on technology when it comes to solving common everyday life problems. Mobile learning has proven to be a powerful tool for personal use, education and business as well. https://www.eztalks.com/elearning/all-the-benefits-and-limitations-of-mobile-learning.html