The mobile learning method is becoming a widely used method of learning by people all over the world. It's an excellent method for instructors to reach new audiences and meet students where they spend their time, using mobile devices.

The average Canadian checks their phone 144 times each day, while the average American checks their phone an insane 344 times per day.

As people continue to integrate technology into their daily routines and lives, it's no wonder that people are turning to smartphones tablet computers, laptops, and phones to study. Mobile learning gives students flexibility unlike anything they've ever experienced before when they are exploring new abilities as well as hobbies, trades and careers.

Let's take a look at mobile learning's pros and cons and consider how m-learning will aid your students.

Skip ahead:

•         What exactly is mobile learning (M-learning)?
•         What are some mobile learning advantages?
•         What is some advantages of Mobile education?
•         Find the right balance on mobile-based learning

What exactly is Mobile Learning (M-learning)?

What are the most positives of learning on mobile devices?

There are plenty of advantages of mobile learning. However, we've identified six. The benefits include flexibility, accessibility and motivation, as well as current content engaging, affordability, and accessibility. Let's look at each one in more detail here:

    Accessibility    

One of the main benefits of mobile learning is accessibility. The courses that are online can be accessed and students are able to access their courses from anywhere in the world. This makes mobile learning extremely versatile and can help creators connect with a larger market.

    Flexibility    

Like accessibility, but with a differently, mobile learning provides students the flexibility that traditional or in-person training courses don't. Students are able to complete their class at the time that works best for them regardless of whether they prefer to work at 12 noon or at 12 midnight.

In addition, if the program allows, students can study at their own pace. It gives them additional flexibility as they could complete the course in as little as a couple of hours, or as long as a couple of months.

    Motivation    

Both eLearning and mobile learning utilize technology-savvy teaching methods and evaluation. Techniques such as interactive quizzes and tests can gamify the course and encourage students to progress and engage in the subject as well as remember key points.

An engaged and motivated student is more likely to remember what they've learned and leave content.

    The Current Content    

Since mobile learning courses are online, they have the unique benefit of revision. Authors aren't able to alter physical textbooks, online classes, or even webinars, after they've been created. Online courses can.

Course creators online are able to benefit from this feature and update their courses regularly when needed. This can help keep classes relevant and useful for learners.

    Engagement    

Duolingo has become the world's most frequently used app for learning different languages, thanks to its engaging methods like microlearning. It gives students bite-sized lessons which can be completed every day.

    Affordability    

Most mobile learning courses do not require instructor-in-person instruction or synchronous learning as they are designed to train one particular technique or attain a single outcome. The size of a mobile course can be much less expensive as opposed to courses that need more staff and maintenance, as well as scheduling and research.

What are some disadvantages in mobile-based learning?

As with anything it is true that there are drawbacks to mobile learning to consider as well. Learning via mobile can leave students exposed to distractions, do not provide social interaction, rely on tech too much, lack the ability to personalize, and even exclude students with no access to quality technologies. We'll explore the reasons down below:

    Distractions    

One of the advantages of using mobile technology in the field of education is that it requires learners to be able to access their material via the use of a smartphone. However, this also means students are much more likely to get distracted.

Students may be receiving text messages, emails, and social media notifications in their class. These distractions can cause the students' engagement to decrease and their completion rate to fall.

    Lack of social interaction    

The use of M-learning is a way to encourage students to make meaningful connections on the internet, but it doesn't provide to have meaningful interaction in person.

Although some students might prefer a more private and self-paced setting, others may depend on social relationships to motivate them. This may be more evident when students are enrolled in courses that require an ongoing commitment.

    Reliance on technology    

Like eLearning, M-learning relies on the technology. The creators need to be aware of compatibility with operating systems as well as optimization for mobile devices or else risk making unwieldy or difficult to use courses.

Reliance on technology may also be a barrier to learning skills that are based upon practical knowledge. For example, artists and mechanics may struggle with mastering real-world skills with no personal feedback or in-person training.

    Poor personalization    

The most personalized feedback is usually provided by a 1-on-1 mentor, in-class teacher, or co-leader. In spite of engaging assessments such as interactive quizzes and tests however, students may not receive personal feedback when they're in online learning classes, making difficult to master and improve their skills.

    Poor technology    

Although many students have access to modern technologies and reliable internet connections, there are some who don't. Some students may be learning on older technology or with unreliable electricity and internet access.

It can be a great way to gain the opportunity to learn for some, however it could restrict access to learners who don't have the right equipment for online education. You'll have to consider the target market and make sure you design a course that is accessible to them.

Find the perfect balance on mobile-based learning

What is an advantage for some could be detrimental to others. In particular, the extreme range of self-paced courses may be unmotivating to some audience members. In the end, it's the responsibility of you to discover the right balance for the target audience and then design accordingly.

Regardless, creators can outweigh limitations of mobile learning, and design the most accessible, top-quality educational and accessible courses more than they ever have previously. With the right content, mobile technology allows you to reach across the globe, engage students, and even build a community.

If you're considering creating an online course, take a test for free! You'll get the course creation along with the selling, marketing, and creation tools you need to turn your course into an online learning business.