Directions for m-learning research to enhance active learning

Abstract

This paper aims to inform readers of suggested directions for researching how mobile technology can enhance active student learning. These directions are informed by an online survey of our students in early 2007 and a contemporary literature search. We present the findings of our search of global best-practice in m-learning, gaps in the current literature are identified and five directions are suggested for 2007 m-learning research and development. We start discussing how to investigate these suggested directions. Our five suggested action research directions are all significant issues in m-learning and all need to be better investigated. If we are interested in enhancing student learning, a priority is to design m- learning and teaching strategies that involve active experiential learning. These strategies need to effectively support our learners’ development of attitudes, understandings and skills in identified graduate attributes, curriculum objectives and stated learning outcomes.

The development of wide support for an online body of knowledge of m-learning and teaching principles, strategies and effective, practical case-studies across all disciplines – an m-portal – is needed and can support and inform emerging national and international approaches to using mobile technologies to enhance learning. Guided by our findings and suggested research suggestions the authors hope to discuss, extend and develop collaborative partnerships for future action research, development and sponsorship at our ascilite 2007 conference workshop.