Mobile learning offers flexibility, cost effectiveness: Researchers

A section of researchers gathered in Salalah recently, discussed the impact of technology in education in the Sultanate under a topic titled ‘A study on impact of information and communication technology and student-centred learning in Oman Economy’.

“The teaching community won’t be there in future?” they asked in the wake of changing teaching trends and electronic devices replacing almost all the teaching-learning equipment. They drew inferences from changing learning environment and adoption of tools like massive open online course (MOOC), quick response code (QR Code), hybrid e-books and mobile apps.

They, however, came to the conclusion that the teaching community is going stay with major modifications in their role due to emerging technologies. .

The researchers Dr RD Balaji, R Malathi and Dr Biju Theruvil Sayed agreed to the fact that Oman is adapting to the changes. “The new form of E-learning is called the M-learning or Mobile Learning. Initially, the mobile learning was having lots of limitations (even till 2010). Due to the technological advancements, now it is becoming more feasible and comfortable for the users to use mobile devices as learning mediums.

“The cost and functionality of these devices are much better than their initial forms and the functionality has become almost same like the desktop computers due to the advancement in the ICT.

“M-learning has made the art of learning to be anywhereanytime. In the recent survey done by the ITA (Information Technology Authority), people below 35 years is spending three to five hours in using mobile phones for various activities. Another survey showed that most of the higher educational institutions in Oman are using M-learning in some format or the other,” said the researchers.

Commenting on the benefits of E & M learning the researchers said, “The E and M learning are the most dominating components of ICT. They are equipped with cost effectiveness, learning flexibility, effective knowledge and competence, easy communication and discussions, and tailored content. Lack of teachers and technicians is affecting the quality of teaching in many parts of the world. The M-learning technology can bridge the gap of that dependence and they have ability to set the pace.”