2.2 OVERVIEW OF M-LEARNING SYSTEM
The concept of M-learning systems is similar to the term “Web based learningâ€, found in Kay & Knaak (2005, 2008) and Kay & Petrarca (2009). The term is defined as interactive mobile based tools that supports learning by enhancing, amplifying and guiding the cognitive processes of learners. Moreover, M-learning includes the main features of the term “Web based learning application†that is defined by Liu & LaMont (2005) as instructional content or activity delivered through the web that teaches a focused concept, meets specific learning objectives, provides a learner centered context and is an individual and reusable piece. Accordingly, the concept of M-learning can be defined as a learning object or Web-based learning tool with four major features:
i. It uses Mobile technologies and it is delivered through Mobile devices
ii. It teaches content that meets specific learning objectives aligned with the curriculum
iii. It is designed on the basics of a learning strategy and pedagogical procedure
iv. It contains reusable elements.
From a technological point of view, M-learning uses web technologies and internet services as the delivery mode, that is to say HTML,E-mails and file transfer etc. In addition to scripting languages, such as PHP, M-learning incorporate multimedia elements, such as images, text, graphics and those developed with multimedia authoring software.
From a pedagogical point of view, M-learning are embedded within a learning strategy linked to the cognitive, constructivist or collaborative learning paradigm or a combination of them (Martinidale, Cates & Qian, 2005). Hence, M-learning systems are associated with pedagogical values that potentially affect teaching processes in school education.
From the content point of view, M-learning systems are computer based implementations of a specific subject that is normally aligned with a given curriculum in school education. M-learning systems can be created to support different topics of a given subject, as well as learning material in a number of subject areas at all levels in school education.
There are many components that goes into making great m-learning. Ultimately the measure of greatness of an m-learning program or any learning program, should be a direct reflection of the level of improvement in educational outcomes as a result of the program.
As we all know every student has different needs, progresses at a different speed and has different support networks they rely on. Therefore a key factor to look for in a m-learning system, if you want to get real results, is whatever it can be personalized to each student and their learning needs. This is commonly achieved by built-in algorithms within the software.
A good m-learning program will give every student the optimal curriculum regardless of his or her actual age. Presenting the student with just the right question at precisely the right moment is the hallmark of a great m-learning program. It should pre-test the student and then continue to reassess after each level. This provides a unique pathway for each student, which fully accounts for individual strengths and weaknesses. Ideally a blend of new content; not yet mastered content; and revision content should be used in the programme.
However, m-learning programs work best when there is full involvement and support from lecturers, advisors and students. We all know there are certain moments when a student is most receptive to feedback, praise and support. Finding a system that will intervene at precisely those moments is key. Immediate feedback and support from parents and teachers aids self-learning, the most powerful form of learning there is.
2.2.1 Evaluation Criteria for M-learning Systems
To evaluate a mobile application, there are five traditional evaluation criteria – Authority, Accuracy, Objectivity, Currency and Coverage. The authors define these terms as:
1) Authority: Authority is the extent to which material is the creation of a person or organization that is recognized by having definitive knowledge of a given subject area.
2) Accuracy: Accuracy is the extent to which information is reliable and free from errors.
3) Objectivity: Objectivity is the extent to which material expresses facts or information without distortion by personal feelings or other biases.
4) Currency: Currency is the extent to which material can be identified as up-to-date.
5) Coverage: Coverage is the range of topics included in a work and the depth to which those topics are addressed. Intended audience is the group of people for whom the material was created.
