Mobile Learning

Why the need for mobile learning?

Even in a developing country such as Namibia, many children can be found occupied on smartphones, tablets, mp3 players, etc. As network coverage reaches the furthest corners of the country, more people have access to cellphone coverage and the internet.
According to UNESCO, Sub-Sahara is 70 years behind SDG education goals. Looking at the situation in Namibia the difficulties that some of the rural schools encounter is the availability of textbooks. Could mobile learning support Sub-Sahara countries to catch up to the rest of the world?

Middle class to affluent families in Namibia are able to afford at least two devices that students can use to do research, complete assignments, connect on social media and complete a variety of tasks using technology. I see it in my own 4-year old son who is comfortable using his IPad, while his mom is a "digital immigrant". When I was young the only device we had was a desktop that still used floppy disks and no internet.

"Digital natives" understand how technology can be used to their benefit. Technology allows them to stay connected to the world through social media and other networks. They also know how to create videos, presentations and share or download content on social media.
Mobile learning can also address the learning styles of special needs students. There are so many apps that can be used to facilitate their learning and it only depends on the creativity of the educator.

 Before any teacher start teaching using different mobile learning tools, they need to understand the purpose of using it to facilitate learning. Teachers should be able to answer to mostly conservative parents why the use of mobile devices can improve students learning.

Guiding Principles

Choose which devices and software would be suitable for you current environment
Teachers might want to start with their own smartphone. If they decide to buy an IPad they can start exploring many ways to enhance learning for their students. Most of these devices require an internet connection to use its full capability.

Recognize the benefits and limitations of each one
An IPad will not replace a computer anytime soon, but it has so many uses that makes learning truly mobile.

Be creative and open-minded about the different ways mobile learning can be used in class
Explore different apps and discover how they can be used the enhance learning. Don't be limited to content-only apps as parents might ask what is wrong with a normal textbook! A personal learning network can be very helpful for teachers that are new to mobile learning as there are thousands of experienced teachers willing to share their experiences, failures and successes with mobile learning.

Provide students the opportunity to show you what they know and learn from them
Most students that have access to different mobile devices have already explored current trends on the internet, whether it is posting to Snapchat, using different filters, downloading music or videos. Our students will always be a step ahead of us when it comes to using technology, especially if you are a digital immigrant. 

Teach students about responsible digital citizenship
Students need to understand that the internet exposes them to dangerous elements or people that might be looking for opportunities to take advantage of them. Tell them about the dangerous of social media, who you allow in your friends circle, what you post online and that any negative posts will never truly disappear from the internet, even if deleted.

Mobile Applications in Physical Education
As a Physical Education teacher, I am always looking for ways to incorporate technology in my teaching. Some of the apps that are suitable includes:

Hudl technique (slow motion software) 
Students are now able to record their movements, review and comment on their performances. They can also do peer assessments by reviewing the performances of other students.

Google Classroom for sharing assignments
I don't find time to hand out assignments in class as students expect to move the minute they step inside the sports hall. I usually post a worksheet on Google Classroom for students to complete at home and submit their completed work online.


References:
 Daccord, Tom. “5 Critical Mistakes Schools Make With iPads (And How To Correct Them).” N.p., 27 Sept. 2012.Retrieved February 14, 2017 from http://www.edudemic.com/5-critical-mistakes-schools-ipads-and-correct-them/

Prensky, M. (2005, December 2).Shaping Tech for the Classroom.Retrieved February 14, 2017, from https://www.edutopia.org/adopt-and-adapt-shaping-tech-for-classroom