The Rise of mLearning: Breaking eLearning Traditions

In 2014, we passed the tipping point where the number of users of mobile devices outweighed the number of desktop computer users worldwide.

Now in 2016, the time users spend accessing mobile digital media is significantly higher at 51% compared to on desktop, 42%.

Because many people sit behind a desktop computer during business hours, it’s often the last thing they want to do when they get home!

The question is no long whether to consider mobile users; it is critical to do so and respond to where technology is leading us.

It’s no different in the elearning industry. To engage learners and futureproof training offerings, you should consider developing eLearning that provides a satisfactory mobile experience. However, it is not as simple as enabling eLearning on mobile devices; “mLearning” is an entirely new approach than traditional eLearning.

In this article, PulseLearning explores the differences between mLearning and traditional eLearning.

Let’s take a look at some of the key features of mLearning.

Feature 1. Micro-learning – bite-sized learning moments
Online learning is moving toward a modular micro-learning approach where eLearning is split into short, concise, and dynamic learning moments, each focusing on a single learning objective or nugget of information. The main advantage is that delivering learning in alignment with attention span can increase knowledge retention.

Feature 2. Learners “pulling” information as required
Traditional eLearning can be described as a “push” approach, where information is presented to the learner whether it is immediately required or not. In contrast, mLearning is a “pull” approach, allowing learners to access information as and when they need it. By nature, mLearning is a learner-centric delivery method that places the learner in control.

Feature 3. Ultimate flexibility
The rise of mobile devices is changing the way we work. With the need to be deskbound decreasing, the flexible workplace is emerging where employees might not even have a fixed workstation and can move around and work in a range of different locations. mLearning fits into this new concept well since learning can also be completed anywhere, at any time. For example, an employee might be working offsite and can fit in micro-learning modules around work tasks or even on the commute home.

The following table provides an overview how mLearning differs from eLearning.

Have you tried mLearning yet? PulseLearning is an award-winning global learning provider who understands the need of accommodating mobile users. PulseLearning can assist you in developing an mLearning strategy that will provide your learners with flexibility and greater convenience.

References:
1. Smartinsights.com, source: Morgan Stanley Research.
2. KPCB mobile technology trends by Mary Meeker.