Terminology to Know When Creating Mobile Learning

Increasing numbers of businesses are using eLearning strategies for training their employees in the workforce. As these mobile learning methods continue to permeate the landscape of employee education, it is necessary to be well-versed in the vernacular of the medium.

Here are some of the terms that are commonly associated with mobile learning:

• Mobile application. Usually referred to as an “app,” these applications are software specifically created to run on mobile devices. There are apps for a wide range of activities and purposes, from time management to social media interactions.

• BYOD. These letters stand for “Bring Your Own Device.” The acronym is used in reference to a company requiring their employees to bring their own smartphone or tablet to work in order to engage in an eLearning program. One of the reasons this has grown in popularity is the cost it saves a company in not having to provide the devices.

• Digital native. A digital native is someone who was born in the time after computers, smartphones, and other advanced technologies were already around. They are generally very familiar with the use of technology and can readily adapt to advances.

• HTML5. A coding format that is utilized for the building of eLearning content for various mediums. It stands for Hypertext Markup Language version 5.

• Smartphone. A smartphone is a handheld device that is used for communication as well as surfing the web and any number of other online functions. They are usually equipped with WiFi and can download and run various mobile applications, or apps.

• Augmented learning. Augmented learning is also referred to as, “just-in-time” learning because it is available whenever it’s needed. It’s useful as support or even a quick refresher.

• Chunking. Used in many branches of education, chunking is the process of breaking down information into smaller, easier to comprehend chunks. These bite-sized chunks of content are also easier for a learner to retain.

• Audioblog. This is the term for a blog that publishes music or podcast audio files. There are times when keywords and text are used in order to enhance keyword and search engine optimization.

• mLearning. mLearning is still a maturing genre of training but an accepted definition of it is “the use of portable or mobile technologies to facilitate, support, enhance, and extend the scope of teaching and learning.”

• Mobile browser. A mobile browser is an internet browser that is created specifically for smaller screens, such as the ones on smartphones and tablets. Some smartphones come with built-in browsers but there are external browsers that can be downloaded.

• uLearning. Also called, “ubiquitous learning,” uLearning refers to the fact that it can be accessed from anywhere. Nearly all of the content that is considered mobile learning is, in fact, uLearning due to how readily available it is.  

This is just a sampling of the terminology associated with mlearning. As technology expands, so will the words used to describe new functions. In order to stay relevant with eLearning training in the marketplace, keeping up with the latest vocabulary is a necessity.