Characteristics of Mobile Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Mobile technology has been a growing trend for higher education and personalized learning (Peng et al. 2009; Alley 2009; Ainge 1995). Regarded as a vital learning tool for a new generation of students and teachers, it has attracted considerable attention in recent years (Alhassan 2016; Doug et al. 2009). Some researchers have argued mobile teaching and learning should be distinguished from online learning because of its own characteristics and functions (Alley 2009; Peng et al. 2009; Fraga 2012; Hennig 2016). A mobile device has different hardware features, software, and connection limitations to traditional computers (Zhang 2012). The characteristics of mobile devices and learning through mobile device are discussed in this chapter. The usage of mobile devices and the time requirements are different compared with learning on fixed computers (Yuh-Shyan et al. 2004; Doug et al. 2009). The advantages and limitation of mobile learning is also discussed in this chapter. The cost of the mobile network and connection quality also limited the learning activities on mobile devices (Zhang 2012). Online survey results from university students in different countries provided some intriguing findings about the future of mobile learning program design. Education program designers, schools, industry developers, and government should work together to provide a stable and safe mobile learning environment for students and individuals. But avoiding the potential risks when adopting mobile technology must be taken seriously.