Mi-Learn : an evaluation of an m-learning management system

Abstract

M-Learning is a novel concept concerned with delivering learning content over mobile devices, which today is being seen as a way to support for conventional and collaborative learning as well as for extending the scope of e-learning. This paper presents the work carried out on a research project named Mi-Learn, whose goal is that of gathering background knowledge within the field of m-learning, identification of related research problems, and creating an environment where solutions to these problems can be identified and evaluated. Pocket SCORM initiatives such as [ADL04] that are working towards a set of standards for m-learning have identified the restricted user interface and the requirement for offline learning sessions as the two major challenges in this area. The work presented in this paper forms part of the first phase of an m- learning research project and concentrates on the first of these challenges. By means of a pilot m-learning management system, an evaluation exercise was carried out in order to assess the impact of a restricted user interface on the learning experience. The evaluation carried out takes both the pedagogical and user interface aspects as the evaluation criteria. Evaluation results show that currently there seems to be a value for m-learning, but more as an extension for exiting e-learning programmes rather than a complete learning management system on its own. The results also helped in clarifying the research area and setting a direction for further research work.