Using Mobile Devices to Support Online Collaborative Learning

Abstract

The paper discusses the effect of mobile learning on students, especially the tablets and  smartphones. Theses gadgets have become a research interest of education to encourage and  facilitate learning. Mobile devices assist in build closer connection between students and  teachers. There are several options of mobile devices such as Ipod, personal digital assistant,  smart phone, laptop or tablet PC, MP3 Players, pen drive and so on. Mobile learning  involves the use of mobile technology either alone or combination with other information  and communication technology (ICT). The benefits of mobile learning expand the reach and  quality of education, facilitate personalized learning, power anytime, anywhere learning,  provide immediate feedback and assessment, ensure productive use of time spent in classrooms,  build new community of students, support selected learning, enhance seamless learning,  bridge formal and informal learning, improve communication and administration, maximize  cost efficiency and update policies related to mobile learning. It is concluded that the benefits  overshadow the challenges. Using mobile devices allow students to extend learning beyond the  classroom walls. Students are highly engaged and are able to demonstrate unique and creative  way to respond to the use of technology that offers some distinctive affordance to users.