mLearning: Using Cell Phones in a Language Class Effectively by-Pir Suhail Ahmed
1. By: Pir Suhail Ahmed
ELI, King Abdul Aziz
University, Saudi
Arabia
What ?
Why?
How?
M-LEARNING
12/23/2011 Using Mobile Phones in a Language Class
8:18 AM Effectively
2. What is M-Learning?
The use of mobile devices in learning is Mobile-learning.
According to different researchers:
" Mobile learning is any sort of learning that happens when the
learner is not at a fixed, predetermined location or learning that
happens when the learner takes advantage of the learning
opportunities offered by mobile technologies." (O'Maley 2003)
"M-learning is the acquisition of any knowledge and skill through
using mobile technology, anywhere, anytime, that results in an
alteration in behavior." (Geddes 2004)
" Mobile learning is any educational provision where the sole or
dominant technologies are hand-held or palmtop devices." ( John
Traxler 2005)
12/23/2011 8:18 AM
3. M-learning = learning on the move.
Increasing
ly
Students use mobile phones for : ubiquitous
playing games
Always
chatting with family and friends Personal Educators connecte
d
texting messages
downloading pictures , music and videos
Cheaper
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4. Mobile phone as a learning tool.
Under-utilized tool
Productivit
Functions
y
Real-time
Features collaboratio
n
Mobile Just-in-
Variety time
phones learning
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5. Mobile phones as a motivational tool
Anxiety interferes with second language acquisition. ( Krashen 1982)
Curiosity
New opportunities for engaging learners
Ultra-modern tool
Brings real world facilities into a limited classroom.
12/23/2011 8:18 AM
6. Mobile phone as a learning tool.
Mobile phone is not an standalone tool in the classroom. ( Prensky 2003, Sharples
2009)
Some of the pedagogical uses of mobile phones:
Recall Reinterpret
Record Relate
Pedagogy
Digital mobile learning approaches increasingly support the principles of social
interaction in learning, and ‘ ….a learner centered philosophy that allows for a
high degree of learner control and the individual construction of learning
pathways’ (Torrisi-Steele 2006:3) 12/23/2011 8:18 AM
7. How to use mobile phones as a learning tool?
It is never too late to learn.
Using a simple GSM mobile phone:
• Notes feature to collect everyday language.
1.
• Voice Memo Recorder feature to record
2. language.
• Text Messaging (SMS) feature to reinforce
3. learning vocabulary.
• Text messaging (SMS) feature for circular writing.
4.
• Calendar and Notes feature to set
5. goals, deadlines for assignments, and reminders
12/23/2011 8:18 AM
8. How to use mobile phones as a learning tool?
Change doesn’t happen over-night.
Using internet-enabled cell phones:
• Use mobile internet connection for online dictionary/ picture
6. dictionary. ( www.pdictionary.com )
• Use free programs to make flashcards.
7.
(www.flashmybrain.com)
• Use the mobile phone to check students’ comprehension and get
8. feedback. (www.polleverywhere.com)
•Use the mobile phone for “phlogging”.
9. (www.ipadio.com)
10. • Use the mobile phone for micro blogging on Twitter/ Facebook.
12/23/2011 8:18 AM
9. Conclusion
Momentum gathers for a reason and can be hard to slow.
I think it is important to be familiar with the new
resources that are available and to challenge
teaching-learning myths and prejudices.
Learning is maximized when a variety of
resources are used.
Mobile phone as a learning tool can contribute
to a more holistic approach to
learning, combined with visual , kinesthetic
and tactile learning style. 12/23/2011 8:18 AM
10. Feel free to write me your comments and
suggestions
ssarhandi@yahoo.com
12/23/2011 8:18 AM
Editor's Notes
What is M-learning? There doesn't appear to be a generally accepted definition among the educational community to describe the term Mobile learning. The difficulty in reaching a consensus is partially because of the rapid evolution of this as a field, and partially because mobile learning works best when it is a part of something else.* Anywhere, Anytime - students can collect and share live data immediately anywhere at anytime.This enables them to play an active role in the knowledge building process.
Why should we use mobile phones in a language class?Cell phones are practically tethered to the hands of most adolescent and adult students. Given their students’ cell phone numbers, teachers have access to their students outside the classroom setting. Used properly (and, perhaps, sparingly), increased access effectively gives instructors greater power to teach, persuade, cajole, encourage, motivate, and engage."Situated learning theory states that learning is more likely to take place when information is contextually relevant and can be put to immediate use." ( Lare and Wenger 1991)Mobile technologies can also provide a powerful connection between a variety of formal and informal learning contexts and can help to build a community of learners.Bridge between the classroom and the outside world.Allows learners to easily take classroom activities, presentations, and notes with them after classEncourages learners to personalize their learning experience.
Variety: different models of the cell phones according to the consumers’ use.Functions: mobile phones come with ever-increasing functions that most ss are adept at using.Productivity: supports and produces all four basic language skills.
New opportunities for engaging learners: different than traditional education, ss have mobile phone to use what they do outside the class.
Record: a learner may create or captured his/her own data.Recall: access (recall) resources.Reinterpret: use a digital device to process learning stimuli.Relate: communicate with peers, mentors, and teachers or in other learning relationships.
Flashcards: you or your ss can create vocabulary flashcards that can be retrieved, shared, and practiced anywhere.