Doc's Blog

Riding the Crest of Change – in the way we communicate, learn, and work in an internetworked world

1. Doc 04.08.08.08 / 11pm

   As a followup, I would like to to share my initial concern: why the following goals could (or could not) be attained for the latest generation of Web-browsing mobile devices.

   1. creating Web-based learning activities once and supporting all users (desktop and mobile)

   2. making the user experience transparent and consistent, i.e., no intrinsic difference in the user experience for desktop and mobile device users.

   At this point in time, I should note that I have attained the second goal on several Web-based LMS and CMS course sites (and blogs like this one), but not on all of the ones where I teach online.

   Although the first goal serves efficiency, at this point I am more concerned with the second goal, no matter how it is achieved by site developers.

   Whatever authentication, tracking, or other functions that are required to access and use Web-based LMS/CMS course sites should be transparent when mobile devices access them, i.e. the site software should recognize and adjust to the mobile device and not vice versa – and the mobile user experience should be the same as when using the desktop.

   I realize that there are likely some or occasional compromises needed to achieve this goal, such as mirror sites or login procedures, device-specific applets, etc. to provide compatibility, but I think this should be achieved through the site and not left up to the mobile user to determine what is needed and how to make this accommodation.

   And yes, I believe there is justification for certain custom applications that exclusively address the capabilities of smartphones and other mobile devices and the expectations and needs of their users. For example, in emergencies and other time-sensitive situations, it is not appropriate for mobile users to try to size and navigate regular Web sites to achieve just-in-time information exchange.

   So my question at this point is how reasonable are my expectations for mobile device users of Web-based, server-driven LMS/CMS courses (that are largely asynchronous and not time-sensitive in terms of user response)?

   And how reasonable are my expectations for site providers to support the two goals stated above?

   What is your experience as a mobile device user with these types of Web-based learning applications?
2. Tina 21.08.08.08 / 9am

   All,

   As a student of UMUC for the last six years and an advent user of mobile devices I feel that being able to access my online content through my mobile device is as important to me as the information itself. I believe that your expectations for mobile accessibility are not far-fetched at all, in fact I believe that with the accessibility (and cost) of technology today it is quite feasible. Education is big business and the need for education will be around as long as people continue to evolve that is why it is important for Educational institutions to invest in enhancements such as these. I believe that we are a technology loving and an “on the move” society, thus requiring accessibility away from home and from other devices besides desktops to be an intricate part of the collegiate educational platform. This is the only way in which universities can stay competitive and will soon be the criteria (at least for online students) in which students decide what universities to attend.

   Tina
3. Doc 21.08.08.08 / 10am

   Hi Tina,

   Thanks for sharing your perspective on the use of mobile devices as an online learner, and especially how its support in online courses can be a factor in choosing schools.
4. Saz 01.09.08.08 / 7pm

   Mobile technology is not just a fad. It is the wave of the future. Here is an interesting story: I spoke with an 18 year old who is currently in college as a freshman. He shared his concerns about paying for school, obtaining books, learning about scholarships, and eating more than oodles and noodles. I was thinking OH WOW WHAT A TYPICAL issue for undergrads who are transitioning into adulthood. I was pressed to teach him about obtaining money and going to school. I almost pitied him.

   Guess what I found out? Before he allotted his teenaged- minimum -waged salary to his education, he allotted it to his necessity. Do you know what he believed his necessity was BUYING THE NEW IPHONE!

   *I laugh looking back at this story.*

   In technology corporations that I am involved with, the use of mobile devices is a must. Although I know that mobile technology will improve over time, the issues that I am encountering are:

   1. Not all websites are fit for mobile devices ie. unpleasant navigational menus.
   2. IT Security breaches for secure government data.
   3. And impatience in downloads. Even now, fast downloads are considered slow as our generation continues to want faster faster faster.
   4. 508 compliance
5. Doc 01.09.08.08 / 8pm

   Hi Saz,

   That’s a great case for reminding us that there are mobile users out there waiting for Web sites to catch up to them and their needs.

   Btw, among two current approaches to accommodating mobile device users, a popular alternative is to create an alternative site that is optimized to support mobile devices.

   You typically note these sites either when you are given the option to use them or automatically directed to the .mobi site. Although I prefer the former approach, it’s still nice to have an optimized .mobi site if/when it’s done properly.

   Here’s two sites to provide information about supporting mobi standards.

   dev.mobi – a mobile development online community:

   http://dev.mobi/

   ready.mobi – testing tool for mobile-readiness with industry best practices & standards:

   http://mr.dev.mobi/launch.jsp?locale=en_EN
6. mike rank 06.09.08.08 / 1pm

   with cell phones and other blackberry’s being internet speeds getting close to broadband speeds it will\shouldn’t be much longer until we start to see more services for mobile learning to be available. mobile learning can be of great help because it can combine the experience on the job aspect with that of the classroom and academic environment.
7. Doc 06.09.08.08 / 6pm

   Hi MIke, Good point – with 3G there is greater ability to view streaming video and audio and to download larger files, so this should help place these devices on a level playing field with their desktop kin.
8. Doc 11.09.08.08 / 1am

   As a followup to my initial post, I am especially interested in how you view mobile learning and other mobile device uses as a form of “disruptive technology” which has the potential to cause challenges (if not threat of elimination) of older technologies that support online learning.

   What are the implications of a change in design from larger to smaller and more mobile devices that can be used to support learning at work, at school, and elsewhere?

   And in the informal use of these devices, are there social and organizational implications?

   Consider the challenges (and opportunities) posed by the use of these devices in onsite (classroom) learning environments. Their use during lectures and testing has already posed a challenge that resulted in policies to limit or prevent their use, but what about the opportunities for learners, teachers/trainers, and administration/management in onsite or online learning environments?

   For these devices and the existing online systems that are used to support learning, what user needs and design considerations should we consider at this early point in the adoption of this innovation?
9. Jenette 11.09.08.08 / 9pm

   I believe that with the up-and-coming “learning by blackberry” focus, there will be many issues that could effect it’s main goal. Yes, this type of learning seems quite convenient but there are are many factors that could cause it’s demise. Certain social setting could pose a problem. Cell phone usage is considered to be in “bad taste” in most situations and people could be bothered by this. Certain workplace usage could even cost jobs for some. The learning environment could also be comprimised. i am not saying that this should not happen but these factors are important to review before implementing. Not every modern convenience is helpful. People tend to cut corners a little too much these days and sometimes it is important for someone to look up and enjoy the scenery for a change.
10. Doc 11.09.08.08 / 10pm

    Hi Jenette, You make an important point I had not considered. People as users and others in the social surroundings of a mobile device user may resist the anytime-anywhere nature of this innovation in the same way that many workers with pagers and cell phones already feel too tethered to their workplace.
11. Ava 12.09.08.08 / 4pm

    Doc,

    I do not have great technological savvy, so I ask what might be considered a stupid question, but here goes: Is the use of a wireless laptop considered to be mobile learning?

    I use a wireless laptop to access my online classes. And I believe that any method of learning and of achieving educational goals is worthwhile. This method does require discipline and I’m sure there are some people for whom this may not be the best way.

    I’ve taken all my math requirements in person because I need the one-on-one attention of the classroom in order to understand complicated calculations. But using my wireless computer has allowed me to participate in family activities, and other responsibilities, while setting aside time to complete my assignments. So with the use of propers controls, such as no electronic devices allowed during testing, I’m all for mobile learning.
12. Doc 13.09.08.08 / 9am

    Hi Ava, Good question. My sense is that whatever device you use to access online learning while mobile would qualify, such as when traveling or out during your business or personal day. To the extent that your wireless laptop is being used that way, it is mobile learning. Otherwise, it is simply connected wireless.
13. Felix 27.09.08.08 / 12am

    I think we should distinguish between studying and learning.

    With studying, I don’t mean just working my way through some preconceived SCORM package, but retrieving sources, trying to solve a math problem, writing an informed essay. For that, a mobile device isn’t enough; I also need a big screen, a comfortable keyboard, a large table, paper and pens.

    Now that universities around the world are getting involved in e-learning, and initiatives like ADL and IMS are starting to standardize delivery of learning content online, I am wondering what will gain larger importance in higher education: self-paced computer-based training content (like SCORM), or digital course materials (like Common Cartridge)?
14. Matthew Johnson 27.09.08.08 / 7pm

    I think the world that we live in is constantly evolving and the newest technology and education wave is mobile learning devices. It is more than a flash in the pan, it is the future of education in this country. People now have a constant need to be connected, to each other and to information. Software will continue to be developed that is user friendly and convenient. Eventually mobile devices will be able to access the same sites and with the same efficiency as desktops.
15. Doc 29.09.08.08 / 9pm

    Thanks Felix and Matt for sharing your perspectives on mobile learning. While Felix’s distinctions are important to note in terms of the limitations of small devices for learning activities such as reading, the user needs and technology advancements noted by both of you will spur further developments in support of this type of online learning.
16. Alley Miller 27.05.09.09 / 12pm

    I have had great experiences with mobile learning and I have had really bad ones. I think that alot of it depends on the instructor and how interactive the instructor is. Organization and quick response is vital.

    I noted earlier that I use my laptop for learning and not my blackberry as I prefer the speed, larger screen and ease of use.

    There are types of learning that I don’t think should be offered via web but in person only. Just my opinion but I think in some areas you just don’t get enough. I am sure that i won’t feel that way about this class.

    I have friends who are learning languages via mobile devices and I am going to give that a try.
    Alley

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