Smartphones are the most widely used technology-driven devices today. Our daily schedule and most of the work would be impossible to complete and manage without the help of these gadgets. So, why not give them another purpose and make the learning process easy and accessible for all?
mLearning is an improved way of teaching by using a mobile that can be used for offering various learning courses and diverse training for everyone.
It might include a different type of challenge than learning over the computer, but it can keep the students interested and focused.
However, when first starting, mistakes can occur during course creation. One of the greatest difficulties is keeping the material interesting enough.
Although mLearning provides valuable lessons, sometimes it can take the wrong direction.
So, take a look at the common misconceptions presented below to prevent any issues and ensure efficient education.
1. eLearning is Better than mLearning
mLearning can provide the same high-quality learning experience that eLearning offers. In fact, some courses can be delivered only via smartphones.
For example, compliance training and product training updates can be effectively studied on smartphones.
Still, one must determine the learning goals and apply different strategies for improving mobile tutoring.
2. eLearning and mLearning are the Same
Many commit the mistake of adapting the content of eLearning to the mobile platform. The individual context is different, as well as the instructional design.
The strategy of learning is best suited for busy people who don’t have the time to sit by their monitors for hours.
Therefore, a mobile training interaction should be kept short and crisp.
3. The Different Device Sizes Don’t Matter
Smartphones come in various sizes, so if the design follows a specific type of mobile platform, some issues can appear.
The application strategy should include all screen sizes and be responsive for portable phone devices.
Optimization is crucial for quality learning; otherwise, the learner’s interest will reduce.
4. The Content is Not Suitable for the Audience
Before starting with the design, one must determine their target audience. Take the time to research their interests, education, experience, and their expectations from the course.
Without exploring the learner’s interests and goals, the course will fail to bring substance and value.
The common mistake is that mLearning doesn’t have enough substance for quality learning. This is not true, as the lessons and concepts can be substantial, even if slightly reduced.
5. Text Overload
Keep the learning material relevant and easy to understand. A lot of information and pages filled with just text are not a good way to present information.
According to the Cognitive Load Theory, pupils will not absorb the information if it overloads their mental capacity. So break up the concept and insert bullets and paragraphs for a concise and enjoyable learning process.
The learners can read a valuable content summary “on the go” and practice their knowledge at any time.
6. Poor Visual Aids
The lessons should be accompanied by relevant and helpful imagery.
Weak and low-quality images don’t make a learning process comprehensible. On the contrary, they confuse and distract the learners.
High-quality visual aids must be appropriate and have to agree with the topic at hand.
7. Not Publishing the HTML5
If you choose to implement HTML5, the training can become more interactive and attractive for users of smartphone devices. This markup language gives the edge in both form and functionality.
HTML5 is open, web-based, and can run on any web browser. It allows companies or developers to follow and control their mobile application usage and functionality.
HTML5 features include:
- Mobile Accessibility
- Video/Audio Support
- Browser Support
- Game Development
- Smart Storage
- Improved Interaction
- Easier Code
- Doctype
8. A Lack of Navigation and Security
When it comes to learning, no matter the effort invested in creating suitable content, it all becomes worthless without proper navigation.
The built-in features should guide beginners. However, the design can’t outshine their functionality.
Also, apart from easy access and directions, security has to be guaranteed as well. Individual passwords can keep the learners on the right path and track their progress.
9. Not Tracking the Growth
Using the analytics in a mobile app can show the progress and efficiency of courses.
It can track popular and not-so-beneficial lessons. Include this to ensure more productive learning and a great overall program.
For example, allow the trainer to interact through text or a pause to allow people to comprehend the lessons better.
As the subject must be constructed for different types of learners, anyone should be able to learn at their own pace.
The engaging content will attract more trainees and give a superior experience to existing ones.
10. A Lack of eLearning Leadership and Management
Along with perfectly designed content and the chosen learning style, the learning program must be properly maintained.
It should be regularly updated with content, pictures, text, audio, video, or animation.
Nevertheless, the selected maintenance team members will work better if they have someone who is the final authority voice and leads the project will make the learning process more productive.
Conclusion
mLearning is a modern concept that helps to impart education in a more effective manner. It is a popular and highly successful tool available to people around the globe.
Avoid overlooking the essentials mentioned above and using unverifiable statistics for the learning content.
Although mLearning is a powerful tool for acquiring knowledge, never use unconfirmed resources, even if they support the learning material.
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