From the latest generation of smartphones to the iPad's
reimagining of the tablet computer market, it is a very exciting
time for mobile computing technology. This excitement has been
reflected in learning and development circles with numerous
learning tools and applications (Apps) developed for mobile
learning (m-learning) becoming the talk of the town.
But what are the practical implications of this constantly
changing landscape for the learner and where does m-learning fit
into healthcare and Pharma?
M-learning as part of an integrated learning
programme
In general terms, m-learning is best deployed as part of an
integrated learning programme, whereby structured learning is
supplemented with informal learning components such as webcasts,
podcasts, interactive case studies and various Apps/tools that help
the user in their working environment (all of which may be
developed as m-learning). As with other forms of informal learning,
the key to effective m-learning is content or information that is
current, and a format that meets the specific needs of the
user/target audience.
Differentiating m-learning from e-learning
Because of inherent differences in the technologies used,
content developed for m-learning should not be considered the same
as e-learning. For example, learning sections in m-learning might
be significantly shorter than in e-learning - as mobile learners
are likely to be on the move and may have to squeeze in their
learning sessions between other activities in their busy lives.
Additionally, m-learning content should be kept simple - screen
size restrictions mean that the number of options, interactions and
general complexity of each screen should be kept to a minimum to
ensure usability. Small screens are in no way suited to handle the
detailed onscreen activity potentially associated with e-learning.
Multimedia may be accommodated and used quite effectively, however.
Portable electronic devices handle video and audio extremely well -
and such formats represent solid tools for informal learning.
Differentiating m-learning on the iPad from m-learning
on smartphones
An additional consideration for m-learning is the delivery
method through which it will be used. Whilst smartphones are slowly
improving as each generation is developed with increasing
processing power, the iPad can be considered to be a real 'game
changer' among tablet computers. The impact of the iPad is
demonstrated by its dominance of the tablet
computer market (Q2, 2011) - whereas the iPhone still lags
behind its competitors (Nokia, Samsung and LG) in the smartphone
market. In terms of learning, the size of the screen means that
e-learning-style content may be appropriate for use on the iPad,
and the tactile navigation system creates an opportunity for
content to be explored with a more hands-on approach
(literally!)
Novel formats for m-learning
One important consideration is that the staple of many
e-learning programmes (Adobe Flash) is not currently compatible
with Apple products. There are, however, alternatives to Flash in
the offing… HTML5 (a version of the World Wide Web language
HyperText Markup Language that is currently under development), for
example, is anticipated to be an important format for learning on
Apple products. For that reason, new Apps such as the
highly-anticipated e-learning authoring tool Articulate Storyline
(currently undergoing beta testing) will be able to produce
learning content as an output using this language. Learning content
management systems (LCMSs) are also available, which enable a
single piece of content to be accessed on a range of static and
mobile devices, by converting it to XML and outputting it in the
appropriate format for the device it is being accessed on.
M-learning and healthcare
Subject to the availability of technology, there is significant
scope for the use of m-learning in Healthcare and Pharma, with
opportunities for busy healthcare practitioners and pharmaceutical
professionals to benefit from mobile resources, Apps and electronic
tools to facilitate daily activities and aid professional
development in every day of their busy lives. For example, doctors
may be able to use smartphones to access specific multimedia
resources for diagnostic information as they do their rounds of the
wards. In the pharmaceutical industry, some companies are already
kitting out sales representatives with iPads, which can be used as
resource of product information or for the purposes of training and
development.
There is significant potential for m-learning tools and Apps
to bring instructional methodology to the individual wherever they
are, so they can learn whenever they want to… But with so many
factors to consider within a constantly changing landscape, is
there really justification for the excitement amidst all the claims
and hype? We certainly think so…
