Geschreven door Jan-Hendrik Vervelde | January 11, 2016
No, mobile learning does not exclusively concern mobile phones. Neither is it a downsized version of e-learning. So, what is it, then? And what possibilities for soft skills does it have to offer? On the basis of a recent scientific publication we debunked the myths and explore the advantages.
Scientific misunderstandings
Tom H. Brown and Lydia S. Mbati debunked several myths that arose in earlier publications in their research on mobile learning in April this year. For example, the myth that mobile learning concerns mobile phones exclusively: a tablet is often much more practical. Also, it doesn’t have to be based on existing pedagogic methodology. Multimedia, interactivity and surroundings offer new and unique possibilities. Furthermore, a user doesn’t have to be, literally, on the move, but a principle of ‘any place, anytime’ is required: wherever you are, it is possible to be learning. Moreover, learning like this is not a light version of e-learning, it is an independent method that offers unique possibilities.
Unique possibilities of mobile learning
While Brown and Mbati continue their myth busting diligently, we will discuss the unique possibilities that mobile learning has to offer. This is the biggest strength of mobile learning. Not only knowledge can be transferred and obtained through mobile devices, soft skills like communication or leadership are incredibly suitable for this as well.
This can be seen in the list of pedagogical possibilities that were featured by researchers:
- Using SMS and WhatsApp for administrative support and motivating messages
- Location sensitive information and augmented reality
- Learning at work, on the move or in spare time
- Personal learning environment and internal social (feedback) communities
- Generating and implementing content yourself
Training soft skills more effectively
The interactivity and freedom that mobile learning has to offer features very prominently here. Mobile learning can be used well for improving skills, as well as knowledge transfer. Because after all, where better to practice customer service than in the store itself? Therefore, we are constantly improving mobile training at TrainTool, in a pedagogically responsible way. Better soft skills result in smoother communication, better service and many other things.
Are you curious as to how this can be implemented in your organisation? We gladly discuss this with you!