Mobile learning is redefining education – “learning made mobile” is accessible to most (with approx. 77% of families having at least one smartphone) and the mobile learning market is estimated to reach $70 billion by 2020.
This is supported by the fact that mobile technology is the fastest spreading technology in human history – it is quickly becoming the easiest way to reach the world’s population.
Mobile technology not only helps educators reach around the globe, it helps them better engage with students both in and out of the physical classroom. Mobile learning is cost effective, enables the tracking of student performance (using for example a LMS, apps etc.) and provides an increasing amount of resources (along with quality) – consider for example the sheer amount of podcasts and videos that now provide supplemental educational materials.
Videos and podcasts epitomize mobile, on-demand learning –by definition they are “mobile ready”. Today, more than ever before, creating video or podcast learning content is easier, quicker, and more cost effective thanks to the ready availability of good software and apps. Videos and podcasts can be used for on-demand performance support, an on-the-job knowledge check, or simply as an additional resource. The benefits of adding “mobile” to learning are multifold: portability, anytime/anyplace connectivity, flexible and timely access to elearning resources, immediacy of communication, empowerment and engagement of learners, active learning experiences.We have examined video learning before on this blog, and today’s infographic (courtesy of Buzzsprout) takes us through “the podcast advantage” and why tech savvy educators are turning to podcasts:
