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Mobile Learning

Mobile learning (sometimes called mLearning) focuses on the use of wireless Internet access in the classroom and other learning spaces so students can learn anytime, anywhere. As stated in the Executive Summary of the OSU Wireless Project, "[wireless] technology, while attractive to students and parents, is not an end in itself -- it must be used only when pedagogically appropriate." The purpose of this site is to provide information to help instructors integrate effective mobile learning activities into their teaching.

Integrating Mobile Learning

Here are some basic ways to use classroom wireless to apply mobile learning exercises in existing courses:

• Post digital lesson plans online in which students can type their own notes during class.³

• Post classroom handouts online so students can easily access them in or out of class.

• Assign learning exercises³ that involve in-class Internet-based research and group presentations².

• Request real-time online feedback to assess student understanding.

See "In Practice" for more ideas for integrating mobile learning activities into teaching...

Why Mobile Learning?

Mobile learning, enabled by wireless access in learning spaces, offers new opportunities for engaging learners.

In one study, researchers found that integrating wireless laptops into general psychology courses had a positive impact on students' motivation and test scores as well as on material covered and notes taken during class lectures.³

Researchers also found that wireless in learning environments improved communication and collaboration in the classroom and increased student engagement in learning activities in classroom and non-classroom settings.⁶

Additionally, wireless access in learning spaces

• Integrates technology into teaching without taking up valuable classroom space or requiring students to move from the classroom to the computer lab.^4,8

• Allows learners to easily take classroom activities, presentations, and notes with them after class.³

• Fosters group work by students and communication between students¹ and instructors⁶.

• Facilitates use of the Internet and digital materials in lessons⁵, which encourages in-class research and promotes computer literacy³.

• Encourages learners to personalize their learning experience⁴ -- access to personal resources makes classroom learning less threatening¹ and more flexible for learners^8,9.

Go to the list of cited and related articles...