What does it mean? #
Mobile Learning is a training approach focused on the use of mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to deliver training content and facilitate learning. In the context of VET, Mobile Learning offers a flexible and accessible tool for the transfer of knowledge and skills.
Mobile Learning is often used to deliver training content structured in thematically focused and short-term teaching units. This approach favours: the personalization of learning pathways; rapid updating of skills; the creation of blended learning paths; the involvement of learners.
Why recommended #
Pros #
– Access from mobile devices
– Thematic focus
– Involvement (through the use of multimedia elements)
– Evaluations and feedback relating to short training units, even in real time
– Ease of customizing content, based on training needs and individual progress
Cons #
– Need to adapt layouts to the small size of the screen (usability and visibility of content)
– Difficulties connecting mobile devices to the network can hinder the use of content
– Need for training design specifically designed for Mobile Learning
Application to the VET Area #
Training
Work-based training
Tutoring and accompaniment
Support for business creation
Level #
Explorer
How to use this methodology #
Mobile Learning allows you to access training anytime, anywhere, using mobile devices. The brevity of the teaching units, typical of Mobile Learning, responds to the need to more easily personalize training courses, while at the same time favouring thematic focus. Mobile Learning, using platforms equipped with interactive elements such as quizzes and simulations, is characterized as an approach oriented towards the rapid acquisition of knowledge and skills. Learning is monitored and evaluated quickly, even in real time.
Work-based training is one of the preferred areas for using Mobile Learning. The short duration of the contents and the possibilities for customization combine well with the need to instruct learners on the implementation of specific tasks and activities: tutorials, compilation of checklists, demonstrations on practical activities, are just as many examples of possible uses of Mobile Learning. Interactive assessments and tests can be completed by learners using mobile devices, allowing tutors to verify learning and provide personalized feedback.
Tutoring and support for work inclusion and job placement is another area in which mobile learning platforms can be extremely useful. In fact, Mobile Learning activates remote interaction without the need for tutors and students to be physically present in the same place or connected via computer. Coaching sessions can be created using the video conferencing, virtual meeting and webinar features.
Mobile learning can consist of the use of specific mobile apps focused on the processes of supporting self-entrepreneurship and business creation. These apps can incorporate interactive elements such as gamified assessments and evaluation questionnaires to improve engagement, facilitate peer feedback, and creative and collaborative processes across mobile channels.
Training #
– Enables access to training anytime, anywhere, through mobile devices
– It allows the customization of learning pathways and thematic focus
– It allows the acquisition/update of skills quickly and flexibly
– It allows feedbacks and evaluations on learning in real time, through applications on mobile devices
Work-based training #
– Enables training aimed at instructing learners on the implementation of specific tasks and activities: tutorials, compilation of checklists, demonstrations of practical activities
– It allows the feedbacks and evaluations on learning in real time, through applications on mobile devices
– It enables peer-to-peer collaboration through the use of mobile channels
Tutoring and support for job placement #
– Enables remote interaction and collaboration, via video conferences, webinars and coaching sessions via mobile device applications
– Allows you to activate discussion groups via chat and instant messaging that can be used from a mobile device
Support for self-entrepreneurship and business creation #
– Enables applications dedicated to self-entrepreneurship and business creation programs, usable via mobile devices
– It allows brainstorming and the activation of discussion groups via chat and instant messaging usable from a mobile device
– It allows interaction and collaboration in creative and evaluation processes, through the use of applications from mobile devices
Practical Resources #
What is Mobile Learning?
2:10 min
eLearning vs. Mobile Learning
2:06 min
What is m-Learning | Benefits of m-Learning | Challenges & Advantages of Mobile Learning
5:11 min
Further reading and suggestions #
– What is Mobile Learning: Definition, Benefits & Top Tips
– Mobile learning methodology for European trainers and improving VET
– Support professional education and training through mobile learning environments
– Mobile learning experiences in professional and technical training
– Mobile learning: welcome to new learning initiatives in classrooms
