As mobile learning continues to receive attention and gain momentum as an effective tool for learning, as do the myths surrounding mobile learning. Unfortunately, many people do not have an accurate understanding of what mobile learning is, exactly, and how businesses and educational institutions alike can benefit from it. Because the mobile learning domain is unchartered territory for a lot of people, this confusion is to be expected. However, the myths surrounding mobile learning may be holding it back from being adopted and used as widely as it could be.
Today, it is our intention to uncover some of the most common myths surrounding mobile learning. In doing so, we hope to shed some new light on this concept and give people a better idea about what to expect when considering implementing mobile learning as a tool for their business or organization.
Myth #1. Mobile Devices are Distracting
To be honest, it would be nearly impossible to remove all distractions surrounding a learning experience without putting someone in an empty room with just a tablet. Even then, one could always open a new window or answer a text message. However, how is that any different from classroom training, or online training on a laptop?
With mobile learning, someone could be lounging at home on their couch, tablet in hand, reviewing product specifications via a mini game, preparing for a sales presentation the next day. By allowing learners to participate in training and review on their own time, in their own environment, distractions will naturally be less of an issue.
Myth #2. Mobile Content Isn’t as Secure as Online Learning Content
Sure, people are far more likely to misplace or have their smartphone stolen than say, as desktop computer. However, this doesn’t mean they are less secure than these more stationary devices. Through advances in technology and the rise in popularity of mobile learning, we are seeing a growing number of devices that are considered highly secure and easy to manage. Content can easily be encrypted on any device as well as the browser in order to ensure a secure, safe connection. Not to mention, how often are you sending personal information, other than maybe your email, to your LMS with a mobile device?
Myth #3. Mobile Learning is Not as Effective as Other Forms of Learning
Mobile learning isn’t always the most ideal delivery medium for information and training, but it has proved to be more effective than originally thought. The ability to learn ‘on-the-go’ with the assistance of smartphones, tablets, and other devices is becoming an increasingly popular method of training, as it enables users to learn at their own pace and on their own schedule. One of the most positive things that has come out of this movement towards mobile learning is that it gives users the ability to access and revisit content whenever they need. This is huge - as it means that learning is no longer restricted to a classroom or training session, but can be done on the couch, on the subway, or while waiting in a coffee shop. Just-in-time training and performance support are easily attainable with the use of mobile learning.
Myth #4. Small Screen Size is Not Suitable for Learning
Depending on the content and your intention, the screen size should not be an issue when mobile learning programs. This form of learning is great when you need to deliver just-in-time information or would like to give people the means to access the training material as they desire. You will find that what matters most is actually the ease with which users can access information, as well as how it presented and how usable it is for accomplishing the intended goal. Furthermore, newer phones and tablets have larger screens, which is yet another reason why the ‘small screen’ myth is being debunked as we speak. Also, through responsive design, content easily fits on screen and still provides the desired user experience.
There are many different ways you can get results from a mobile learning program, but the first step is to understand the misconceptions surrounding this form of training. As we will continue to see advances in technology, this notion of mobile learning will become more and more common. It is important to keep in mind, in order to be successful with a mobile training program, you must take the time to sit down and go over your goals and objectives. By starting with this step first, you will have a clearer picture of whether or not this route is right for you. At that point, it is recommended that you contact our Designing Digitally, Inc. team. We will walk you through the entire process and answer any questions or concerns you may have about mobile learning. We hope that you now have a better idea of what mobile learning is all about, and what some of the most common mistruths about this ever-popular form of learning are.