Mobile Learning: A 4th Reading List

Here are 10 of the more recent articles and blog posts that I have read concerning mobile learning. Links to the other 3 lists can be found at the bottom of this blog post.
1) 5 Steps to Harnessing the Power of Cell Phones in Education Today: This blog post provides 5 ways that teachers can begin using cell phones in their classrooms to help their students learn.
2) 7 Things You Should Know About Mobile Apps for Learning: An article by Educase discussing the value of mobile apps in teaching and learning.
3) Kids More Likely to Own a Cell Phone Than a Book, Study Finds: A ReadWriteWeb article discussing a study on today’s ownership trends.
4) Full Interview: Marie Bjerede on cell phones in the classroom: A podcast episode from CBC’s “Spark”

Read the rest at: http://themobilelearner.wordpress.com/2010/06/27/mobile-learning-a-4th-reading-list/

Ignatia Webs: What to take into account when chosing a mobile device for learning?

Ignatia Webs gives us an interesting article on choosing a mobile device for learning. I generally take a different approach, starting first with what your users already have and molding the strategy around that. This article, however, is good if you are looking at starting from scratch on a mLearning project where you will be in charge of providing the devices.



Read it at:
Ignatia Webs: What to take into account when chosing a mobile device for learning?

A few notes of contention or commentary-

* BlackBerry devices do not require the Enterprise Server software for mLearning (or even email).

* When considering a device that has Wifi, look for one that creates a mobile hotspot. You won't regret it.

* I appreciate this article mentioning screen reflection. This is something people often don't think of but regret not checking when they are shopping for a phone. For example, my current device, the Motorola DROID works great in bright light situations where one would have trouble seeing the screen on an iPhone. Considering the context of your mLearners is just as important as the content. If your learners can't read what is on the phone, what good is pushing out a text mLearning strategy?

* Later generations of a device don't always guarantee a better experience. Doubt this, just read the Apple support forums and the nightmare that many are having with the iPhone 4.