Ubiquitous Computing and Multimedia Applications

Abstract

The potential of ICT in institutional education is being realized in the implementation of distance and blended learning. The Internet, Smartphone, iPad, Apps, App stores and WiFi networking are providing ubiquitous computing, as e- and m-learning rapidly develop. Meanwhile, Earth suffers from worsening environmental pollution, climate change, and its sixth mass extinction. As environmental consciousness develops, educational institutions seek to adopt responsible environmental practices. One means is to encourage blended learning environments, within which online distance components are then implemented. Integrated scheduling allows students to participate in distance online learning for a significant portion of their study time, and effect environmental savings associated with reduced commuting costs and usage of institutional facilities, while providing increased capacity to service students. Learning Management Systems will likely merge with educational MUVEs, with Open Learning Networks incorporating Personal Learning Environments to provide effective autonomous learning environments that support traditional, blended, and distance learning. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.